Development of an Eco-Driving Simulation Training System with Natural and Haptic Interaction in Virtual Reality Environments

Road transport is one of the major causes of the environmental pollution. Among the actions individuals can take to reduce their green-house gases associated with personal transportation, there is to operate their current vehicles more efficiently. Behavioral theory strongly confirms that the most important educational element in changing driver behavior is the direct feedback while driving on an immediate and continuous basis. Gamification has been positioned as a powerful approach, tool, or set of techniques that guides targeted behavior change and improves the way that various activities are undertaken so that those involved begin to take the desired actions while they experience more fun, enjoyment, and pleasure in their tasks. Building on this direction, we present conceptual approach of an eco-driving simulation system that aims to train drivers to follow eco-driving rules simulating the augmented reality technology in virtual driving games. The proposed system provides: i) an efficient way to study the effect of AR games responsible for monitoring driving behavior and delivering action personalized plans that will help user to maintain a green driving style without distracting them from safe driving and ii) a multiplayer gaming environment where users can monitor the eco-driving score evolution, set missions and invite other to participate collaboratively or competitively.