Analysis of Human Hand Impedance Properties Depending on Driving Conditions

This paper examines the influence of driving conditions on human hand impedance properties by using an originally developed driving simulator. A set of driving tests combining driving speed and the existence of a road centerline was carried out with five subjects. The results statistically demonstrate that humans steer a vehicle with increasing hand stiffness by activating arm muscles, i.e., under some tension, on the straight load especially at a lower speed with a centerline. In addition, it was confirmed that there was a clear correlation between steering behaviors and human hand stiffness according to the driving conditions. Human impedance measurement in driving would be useful to ascertain not only steering behaviors but also driver’s physical and mental conditions for driving conditions, which may be required to develop an intelligent driving support system.