Abstract
This paper presents the results of several studies conducted by using the Ford Comprehensive Headlamp Environment Systems Simulation (CHESS) model (1,2). This model provides a much broader, more comprehensive and more economical computerized method for measuring headlighting performance than the traditional seeing distance field tests. The model was developed from an extensive program including nighttime field tests, traffic surveys and analysis and applications of earlier research work.
The model was simulated to study how various improvements in drivers night visibility can be made by altering characteristics related to vehicle headlamps, roadways and driver behavior. Some of the variables used in these sensitivity analyses included changes in headlamp beam, headlamp aim, road delineation practices, traffic velocities, roadway lighting practices, and night travel exposure.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.