Investigation of Operator Feedback in Human-Machine Haptic Interfaces for Steer-by-Wire Transportation Systems

The application of haptic technology to the human-vehicle interface permits customization based on the operator’s needs, mission requirements, and surrounding environment. In mechatronic systems, haptics typically encompass force reflecting devices through the integration of sensors, actuators, and real time microprocessor control algorithms. Some transportation-based haptic interface technology examples include ground vehicles, electric wheelchairs, remote-controlled drones, aircraft, and mobile robots. Drive-by-wire vehicles and tele-operated robots can benefit from haptic concepts through the provision of tunable force feedback using servo-motors to upgrade traditional systems such as hydraulic power steering and non-force feedback joysticks. In addition, haptics can potentially improve the operator’s performance and overall system safety. In this paper, driver interface feedback has been studied on a steer-by-wire haptic interface platform integrated with a virtual reality driving environment. Operator performance over a prescribed series of driving maneuvers and feedback settings has been investigated through real time data logging and post-test questionnaires. Finally, external observations have been made on individual driver behavior when subjected to varying steering feedback configurations.Copyright © 2004 by ASME