A Physics-Based Musculoskeletal Driver Model to Study Steering Tasks

Realistic driver models can play an important role in developing new driver assistance technologies. A realistic driver model can reduce the time-consuming trial-and-error process of designing and testing products, and thereby reduce the vehicle's development time and cost. A realistic model should provide both driver path planning and arm motions that are physiologically possible. The interaction forces between a driver's hand and steering wheel can influence control performance and steering feel. The aim of this work is to develop a comprehensive yet practical model of the driver and vehicle. Consequently, a neuromuscular driver model in conjunction with a high-fidelity vehicle model is developed to learn and understand more about the driver's performance and preferences, and their effect on vehicle control and stability. This driver model can provide insights into task performance and energy consumption of the driver, including fatigue and cocontraction dynamics of a steering task. In addition, this driver model in conjunction with a high-fidelity steering model can be used to develop new steering technologies such as electric power steering.