The dispute between VR and traditional research simulator in traffic research continues. Both technologies have pros and cons, so researchers must consider their alternatives when developing tests and studies. This topic centers on improving data that reflects real-world driving behavior and situations. Let’s examine each approach’s pros and cons to determine which provides better traffic study information.
Traditional simulators from driving schools and research universities have powered traffic studies for decades. These simulators feature a fixed cockpit with steering wheels and pedals and a screen or projection system that shows realistic driving conditions. Traditional simulators provide a controlled and repeatable setting for researching driver behavior, but they may not be realistic enough to elicit honest answers.
VR simulators immerse participants in a virtual driving experience. Participants use headgear and motion tracking systems to engage realistically with virtual highways, automobiles, and pedestrians. VR simulators can accurately simulate many driving circumstances and provide unmatched immersion. They may experience simulator sickness and other adverse effects that affect data quality and participant participation.
The research study’s aims and criteria determine the data quality choice between traditional and VR simulators. Traditional simulators thrive in fine control and repeatability situations. Researchers can easily control traffic congestion, weather, and road layouts, assuring trial consistency. Traditional simulators can also analyze driver performance parameters like reaction times, steering control, and traffic law compliance.
However, VR simulations are more realistic and naturalistic, which may encourage more authentic answers. Researchers can better examine human variables by simulating realistic driving scenarios with dynamic traffic patterns and unpredictable incidents. VR simulators allow traffic researchers to fully understand real-world driving, from driver distraction to sophisticated driver aid system performance.
Traditional simulators may be cheaper and more accessible than VR systems, which require specialized hardware and software. VR technology has become increasingly affordable and accessible to academics in recent years. As it mainstreams, VR may someday compete with traditional simulators in cost and usability.
