Safe Car Driving with Head Up Displays and Camera Monitor Systems

In order to understand how new technology in cars for giving visual information can enhance safety and visibility we propose a series of studies on Head-Up Displays (HUD) and Camera Monitor Systems (CMS). Both are promising technologies that may be combined with Augmented Reality (AR). To safeguard against mistakes an interdisciplinary approach is needed. The problem to be solved is how to make these technologies adapted to the human senses, so that safety and visibility are increased. Misapplied technology may result in distorted visual perception with faulty decision resulting in errors and accidents. The intended user are all future car drivers.

Understanding how these new technologies and potential side effects will affect car driving, knowledge from human factors, optics, perception and computer domains will be utilized. The RISE Research Institutes of Sweden and Volvo Cars (Volvo) will be joint partners with laboratories and experts. The project will study (1) optical aspects of these new technologies in cars (2) human perception and behaviour when using these technologies while driving a car (3) the effects of low temperature on the digital rear-view mirrors of the CMS’ ability to render a clear picture, and its effects on drivers and safety. The results of the new technologies will be related to traditional, non-electronic devices and the relative advantages and possible disadvantages of each will be compared. This knowledge will result in safer driving, better cars and commercial advantages for Volvo, with benefits for the Volvo brand.