Projects
Research is currently carried out in the following subject areas:
- Motion Perception and Motor Control in Vehicles
Projects in this framework aim at the development of characteristic variables and parameters to describe the interaction of vehicle dynamics and driver's perception. Furthermore we are interested in the impact of vehicle dynamics characteristics on traffic safety: we currently investigate the driver's reactions to external disturbances in the closed-loop driving situation. - Electromobility
The new vehicle architecture of electric vehicles has - in addition to technical consequences - also a significant impact on the driver. Especially because of the optimisation of energy efficiency, the driver has to be included in the energy management of the vehicle. The presented research projects are dedicated to studying the resulting changes in the human-machine interface of fully electric vehicles. - Behavior Measurement
Most of our analyses in research projects are based on empirical data of behavior. Therefore we are constantly trying to improve our scientific methods of measuring and analyzing the behavior of human beings. - Driver Information and Assistance
To introduce innovative driver assistance - and information systems knowledge about the the interaction of driver and car is necessary. In particular, this requires knowledge of human information processing, motion perception and control. This category includes projects, which aim to establish knowledge on the interaction between humans and machines or drivers and cars. - Human Factors in Road Construction
We aim at improving traffic safety and quality by introducing psychological and physiological approaches to road design. We try to clarify the relationship between road design/the arrangement in the road environment and drivers' behavior and reactions. - Rail Human Factors
In this section we summarise research projects in the field of rail-bounded traffic whereas the training and qualification of the train driver is in the spotlight. - Psychoactive Substances
Effects and prevalence of alcohol, drugs and pharmaceuticals in road traffic have been addressed in a series of studies at our department. In this context, you can also find material illuminating legal provisions for driving under the influence of psychoactive substances and strategies of prevention. - Traffic Safety
This category includes projects which aim to increase safety and efficiency of road traffic by facilitating efficient driving behavior in traffic. Also, aspects of fitness to drive and capability to drive especially for vulnerable driver subgroups, such as novices and young drivers, diseased drivers are treated. - Training
We are engaged in design and evaluation of driver trainings for road and rail applications. This section includes projects on the development of training programs that are based on findings from ergonomics, psychology and pedagogy.