Study on influence of walking experience on traffic safety attitudes and values among foreign residents in Japan

The most vulnerable user in road space is still an ordinary pedestrian even though the top fatalities by traffic mode differ in countries. Thus, prioritizing/protecting vulnerable road users is essential to improve road safety. People's safety perceptions toward vulnerable users are strongly associated with surrounding elements and their own experiences, especially as pedestrians. Therefore the attitude and values toward vulnerable users would vary due to culture and customs related to walking in each country. This study examines how a walking experience change reflects people with diverse backgrounds' traffic safety attitudes by conducting an online questionnaire survey for foreigners living in Japan for five years or less. As a result, 75% of respondents walk more frequently due to increased public transportation usage. For all the respondents, the increase in the walking frequency also drives the shift in the attitude toward vulnerable users and the values regarding travel safety and comfort indirectly intermediated by the shift in attitudes toward walkability, applying structural equation modeling. To focus on the structure of the shift according to nationality, people from Southeast/South Asia, where motorcyclists are the top fatalities in the road space and somehow regarded as vulnerable road users, the increased walking experience contributes significantly to the improvement of awareness of vulnerable road users and to the formation of safety and comfort values. Regarding people from Europe/North America, although their walking frequency increases after coming to Japan, there is a static causal relationship that does not influence their attitude toward walkability or safety and comfort values. Additionally, they already have an attitude of protecting/prioritizing pedestrians and placing more importance on safety and comfort. At the same time, people from Southeast/South lacks the attitude toward pedestrians due to much less frequency of walking in daily life. It suggests that establishing safe and having comfortable pedestrian spaces and public transport in developing countries where traffic infrastructure is at the development stage will encourage people to walk and likely help foster an attitude of placing importance on safety.     

A multi-country survey for collecting and analyzing facts related to road traffic safety: Legislation,enforcement, and education for safer drivers

Road traffic safety is a crucial global objective. It is important for every country to review and improve road safety policies and strategies, based on an objective understanding of its own road traffic safety situation in the world. With the aim of contributing to such a review and understanding, this study conducted a multi-country survey to gather information about various facts related to legislation, enforcement, and education, which are designed to achieve safer drivers in nine countries, by using a common format. This paper introduces the results of the survey with a particular focus on legislation and enforcement regarding speed limit violations and red-light-running as well as on education within the driving licensing systems. It highlights variations, in terms of penalty settings and enforcement levels, in different countries; it also examines the training durations necessary for acquiring a driving license and license renewal procedures. In this way, it demonstrates the potential and significance of understanding the relative position of each country in terms of road traffic safety through an international comparison despite its limited information.     

Investigating the road safety management capacity: Toward a lead agency reform

An efficient management system and leadership body is one of the key requirements for a road safety improvement program. In low- and middle-income countries, the organizational structure of the management system may suffer from deficiencies weakening the institutional functions across key road safety players. Hence, it is necessary to form an inner- and inter-organization evaluation framework encompassing all the processes, events, dependencies, and causation among road safety players. In this paper, a (three-stage) system thinking approach is developed to evaluate the behavior of inter-organizational complex system and to determine major deficiencies in the role of the road safety lead agency. The first stages of the system thinking approach starts with drawing diagrams (i.e. multiple-effect and multiple-criteria trees) that allows identifying the chains of reasoning behind events or consequences. The next stage of the system thinking approach embodies the analytic network process (ANP), an advanced multi-criteria decision-making technique, which handles the lead agency capacity evaluation and helps to determine how and by what magnitude any of the players can affect the national road safety. The proposed method applies to the case of Iran, a middle-income developing country in the Middle East. Since in Iran, the Road Safety Commission (RSC) has been established as the lead agency, it was expected that RSC owns the greatest influence on the status of road safety. However, our results show that the overall influence of RSC on road safety is far less than what was expected. Subsequently, a supplementary procedure is proposed to specify institutional reforms in order to avoid such organizational inefficiencies.     

浅谈汽车安全保护气囊系统

简述汽车安全气囊美国发展历史。这个历史表明，制定汽车安全气囊的法规颁布执行，有力地促进安全气囊技术的发展和完善，事实证明安全气囊成为不可争议的对大众有利的汽车安全设备。同时较详细论述了安全气囊的几个组成部分，以及设计思想和主要的技术难点，最后对于安全气囊中国如何发展提出了几点看法。     

面向交通安全研究的实验设计及方案评价

针对交通安全实验日益复杂,实验成本日益增加,科学、有效的实验结论的获得日益困难的现状,在给出交通安全实验概念及特点的基础上,从定性和定量两个方面,以偏差和实验次数作为定量指标,以可控性、可重复性、鲁棒性和可拓展性为定性指标,以采用最经济的实验方案、获得最优实验效果为原则,建立了交通安全实验方案评价体系.提出了交通安全实验设计流程。实际应用证明:本文提出的交通安全实验设计流程和实验方案评价体系清晰合理、科学可靠、切实可行,为我国交通安全实验提供了一种切实可行的研究途径,对于提高我国交通安全研究水平具有一定指导意义。     

Modeling effects of driver safety attitudes on traffic violations in China using the theory of planned behavior

Traffic violations are recognized as one of the main causes of traffic accidents and have been found to be closely associated with driver attitudes toward traffic safety. In this study, a modified theory of planned behavior (TPB) was used to model the effects of driver safety attitudes on traffic violations, based on a questionnaire survey of 1505 drivers in China. In light of the strong correlations between the observed items, the items of the TPB components were grouped into several parcels, using an item-parceling method. Parcel-based structural equation modeling was then used to operationalize the modified TPB. The results indicate that the proposed model can accurately predict the occurrence of traffic violations based on the observed items related to driver traffic safety attitudes. It was found that driver attitudes, subjective norm, and perceived behavior control significantly affect traffic violations. For predicting traffic violations, driver attitudes toward traffic safety policies had the greatest influence, followed by driver attitudes toward risky driving behaviors and the attitudes of others toward risky driving behaviors. Finally, suggestions on traffic enforcement and education to reduce traffic violations are proposed based on the results.     

跨座式单轨作为中等规模城市轨道交通模式的适应性分析

为能给中等规模城市选择一种经济适用环保高效的轨道交通系统制式,通过分析我国的城市结构特征、轨道交通发展政策和现状,进而说明我国中等规模城市对轨道交通的需求具有中低运量系统需求大、对投资建设及运营经济性、环保性和运营效率安全要求高等特征,通过分析轮轨轻轨制式钢轮钢轨(高架B型车、C型车)、(跨座式)单轨、直线电机、胶轮导轨和中低速磁浮等系统对需求特征的适应性,并进行综合技术经济指标对比,指出跨座式单轨应成为轻轨(中运量)系统的主导模式,最后对如何促进跨座式单轨的发展提出了合理建议。     

交通冲突技术在ETC安全评价中的应用研究

由于数据缺乏,国内外有关ETC对交通安全影响的评价研究开展甚少。ETC系统对交通安全究竟会产生怎样的影响,如何进行分析评价,是一个全新的课题。作者参考了其它交通设施的安全评价方法并结合我国交通安全管理的实际情况,得出了仅运用事故统计数据模型来评价ETC对收费区安全水平的影响是欠可靠的这一结论,确定采用以非事故间接评价方法暨交通冲突技术对ETC安全进行评价。本文旨在确立ETC系统的安全评价方法并搭建其评价框架,着重探讨了如何在收费区引入交通冲突技术。     

浅谈降低车内有害挥发物(VOC),实施整车气味管理

近来社会不时有关于汽车内异味或者是有害挥发物超标致病的新闻,车内异味已成为严重影响我国消费者感知质量的重要问题,车内空气质量安全已引起全社会的广泛关注。本文浅谈汽车气味管理流程以及改善对策,以及怎样降低车内有害挥发物至标准范围内,如何保证车内气味安全。     

基于道路特征信息变化率的公路线形质量评价

公路线形质量对行车的舒适性和安全性有着非常重要的影响，如何合理有效地对其进行评价是一个有待解决的问题。从驾驶员行车时接受道路信息的角度出发，提出了道路特征信息变化率的概念，并作为评价公路线形质量的定量指标运用到平面线形、纵断面线形和平纵组合的评价研究中。研究表明：平曲线半径越小，驾驶员接受的道路特性信息变化率越大，驾驶员负担也越重；此外，平曲线长度、竖曲线半径及平纵组合都对道路特性信息变化率有较大的影响。研究成果可为改善公路线形，提高行车安全提供依据。     

International analysis on social and personal determinants of traffic violations and accidents employing logistic regression with elastic net regularization

While the number of road fatalities is declining in developed countries, it is still increasing globally, especially in middle-and low-income countries. In addition to the driver's individual awareness and attitude toward traffic safety, various factors such as the development of road infrastructure and the legal system may have a significant influence on the occurrence of traffic accidents. Thus, it is essential to consider these factors to enhance traffic safety and achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Targets of 3.6.In this study, we developed an Elastic Net Regression model to evaluate the factors that influence an individual's traffic violations and accidents based on an international questionnaire on traffic safety attitude, country fact survey data on traffic regulations, and other statistical databases. As a result, it was revealed that: i) In addition to country-level factors, the individual's attributes and attitudes toward traffic safety have an influence on the experience of traffic violations and accidents. and ii) While the same variables regarding individual attributes and attitudes are selected for both traffic violations and accidents, the selected variables relating to country factors differ between violations and accidents.     

Design of ANFIS networks using hybrid genetic and SVD methods for modeling and prediction of rubber engine mount stiffness

Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) are deployed for optimal design of both the Gaussian membership functions of antecedents and the vector of linear coefficients of consequents, respectively, of ANFIS networks. These networks are used for stiffness modelling and prediction of rubber engine mounts. The aim of such modelling is to show how the stiffness of an engine mount changes with variations in geometric parameters. It is demonstrated that SVD can be optimally used to find the vector of linear coefficients of conclusion parts using ANFIS (Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference Systems) models. In addition, the Gaussian membership functions in premise parts can be determined using a GA. In this study, the stiffness training data of 36 different bush type engine mounts were obtained using the finite element analysis (FEA).     

Active control strategy for the running attitude of high-speed train under strong crosswind condition

This paper focuses on the safety of high-speed trains under strong crosswind conditions. A new active control strategy is proposed based on the adaptive predictive control theory. The new control strategy aims at adjusting the attitudes of a train by controlling the new-type intelligent giant magnetostrictive actuator (GMA). It combined adaptive control with dynamic matrix control; parameters of predictive controller was real-time adjusted by online distinguishing to enhance the robustness of the control algorithm. On this basis, a correction control algorithm is also designed to regulate the parameters of predictive controller based on the step response of a controlled objective. Finally, the simulation results show that the proposed control strategy can adjust the running attitudes of high-speed trains under strong crosswind conditions; they also indicate that the new active control strategy is effective and applicable in improving the safety performance of a train based on a host–target computer technology provided by Matlab/Simulink.     

Accident investigations for active safety at CHALMERS - new demands require new methodologies

In order to develop efficient active safety systems, knowledge about what causes traffic accidents is required. One way to gather such knowledge is through traffic accident investigations. For the needs of active safety, most current accident investigation methodologies do not provide a sufficiently detailed or theoretically anchored analysis. Therefore, new studies need to be carried out using new theoretical frameworks and analysis methods. At CHALMERS, a new methodology called driving reliability and error analysis method has been developed and tried out during recent years. The methodology, as described and exemplified, shows good promise of meeting the needs of active safety accident investigation projects. Results from studies using the methodology also imply consequences for how benefit estimation of new active safety systems should be carried out.     

公路安全保障工程对下坡急弯路段车辆运行特征影响分析

为指导公路安全保障工程的深入开展，进行了大量追踪工作。选定国道108某路段，对公路安全保障工程前后下坡急弯路段车辆运行特征数据进行了观测，主要包括公路安全保障工程实施前后事故情况、车速情况、刹车点位置情况等。基于对上述观测数据的分析，发现在该下坡上公路安全保障工程的实施使得车辆运行特征发成了变化，标志、薄层铺装等设施都起到了预期的安全效果。最后，对薄层铺装等设施的合理设计提出建议。     

Evaluating accessibility to Bangkok Metro Systems using multi-dimensional criteria across user groups

Metro systems act as fast and efficient transport systems for many modern metropolises; however, enhancing higher usage of such systems often conflicts with providing suitable accessibility options. The traditional approach of metro accessibility studies seems to be an ineffective measure to gage sustainable access in which the equal rights of all users are taken into account. Bangkok Metropolitan Region (BMR) transportation has increasingly relied on the role of two mass rapid transport systems publicly called “BTS Skytrain” and “MRT Subway”, due to limited availability of land and massive road congestion; however, access to such transit arguably treats some vulnerable groups, especially women, the elderly and disabled people unfairly. This study constructs a multi-dimensional assessment of accessibility considerations to scrutinize how user groups access metro services based on BMR empirical case. 600 individual passengers at various stations were asked to rate the questionnaire that simultaneously considers accessibility aspects of spatial, feeder connectivity, temporal, comfort/safety, psychosocial and other dimensions. It was interestingly found by user disaggregated accessibility model that the lower the accessibility perceptions—related uncomfortable and unsafe environment conditions, the greater the equitable access to services, as illustrated by MRT — Hua Lumphong and MRT — Petchaburi stations. The study suggests that, to balance the access priorities of groups on services, policy actions should emphasize acceptably safe access for individuals, cost efficient feeder services connecting the metro lines, socioeconomic influences and time allocation. Insightful discussions on integrated approach balancing different dimensions of accessibility and recommendations would contribute to accessibility-based knowledge and potential propensity to use the public transits towards transport sustainability.     

Dynamics of railway wagons subjected to braking/traction torque

Braking or traction torque is regarded as an important source of wheelset skid and a potential source of derailment risk that adversely affects the safety levels of train operations; therefore, this research examines the effect of braking/traction torque to the longitudinal and lateral dynamics of wagons. This paper reports how train operations safety could be adversely affected due to various braking strategies. Sensitivity of wagon dynamics to braking severity is illustrated through numerical examples. The influence of wheel/rail interface friction coefficient and the effects of two types of track geometry defects on wheel unloading ratio and wagon pitch are also discussed in the paper.     

Effect of attitudes towards traffic safety and risk perceptions on pedestrian behaviours in Vietnam

This study explores the relationships between attitudes towards traffic safety, risk perceptions and pedestrian behaviours in Vietnam. A questionnaire survey was conducted with a sample of 835 Vietnamese road users. The results from regression analyses and a structural equation model showed that safer attitudes towards traffic safety and higher levels of traffic risk perception are associated with safer pedestrian behaviours. In addition, traffic safety attitudes were found to partially mediate the association between traffic risk perception and pedestrian behaviour. Furthermore, traffic risk perception was significantly predicted by non-traffic risk perception, and people who had higher level of risk perceptions of both kinds were also prone to report safer attitudes towards traffic safety. The practical implications for traffic safety interventions in Vietnam are also discussed.     

The public's understanding of the functionality and limitations of automatic braking in Japan

Automated driving systems are increasingly widespread in the automotive industry. To operate automobiles that are assisted by such systems, drivers must correctly understand their functionality and limitations. Hence, focusing on the rapidly spreading technology of automated braking, this study seeks to clarify the general public's understanding of automatic braking systems. A total of 210 Japanese people responded to a questionnaire regarding how automatic brakes are operated, how they work, when they disengage, and so on. The proportion of those who misunderstood the operation of the system is not especially high, but there were a certain percentage of people who had misconceptions; e.g., some believed that automatic braking could detect pedestrians or bicycles. Moreover, respondents were under the impression that drivers cannot readily disengage automatic braking systems. If they mistakenly use the automatic brake, there is a possibility of posing a risk to the road transportation system.     

Development of a knowledge-based hybrid failure diagnosis system for urban transit

Urban transit is a complex system that contains both electrical and mechanical entities; therefore, it is necessary to construct a maintenance system for ensuring safety during high-speed driving. Expert systems are computer programs that use numerical or non-numerical domain-specific knowledge to solve problems. This research aims to develop an expert system that diagnoses the causes of failures quickly and displays measures to correct them. For the development of this expert system, the standardization of a failure code classification and the creation of a Bill of Materials (BOM) were first performed. Through the analysis of both failure history and maintenance manuals, a knowledge base has been constructed. Also, for retrieving the procedure of failure diagnosis and repair linking with the knowledge base, we have built a Rule-Based Reasoning (RRB) engine with a pattern matching technique and a Case-Based Reasoning (CBR) engine with a similar search method. Finally, this system has been developed as web based in order to maximize accessibility.