Road luminances based on detection of change of visual angle

Abstract

Road luminances were investigated using a realistic visual task and a defined performance criterion of ease of seeing. Position keeping in the traffic stream is an important aspect of the driving task and detection of change of the angular size of the rear of the followed vehicle is the important visual element of this task. Data from a laboratory simulation are presented, linking time to detection of change of visual angle to light level, the initial headway of the followed vehicle and its subsequent acceleration or deceleration. A nomogram is given from which the road luminance can be deduced for a range of traffic conditions. This luminance will permit seeing with a near minimum reaction time. The CIE lighting recommendations for freeways (motorways) are evaluated.

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