A Control Authority Transition System for Collision and Accident Avoidance

Summary This paper addresses the problems ensuing with the human being who is controlling the technical system, especially problems related to his skill levels, driving habits, capabilities and decisions (especially when impaired by drugs, fatigue or physical handicaps). It may be possible to improve the ability of a driver to operate a vehicle safely if certain parameters in the control of the vehicle are adjusted according to the driver's normal characteristics. Value has already been established for tailoring certain attributes such as seat, pedals, steering wheel position and mirrors to a given driver through memory functions. This research concentrates on assessing a driver's operating characteristics and modifying the control to improve safe operation of the vehicle on a real-time basis.