A National Advanced Driver Simulation Facility

Dr. Edward Haug, University of Iowa, EEC-9704242
Dr. Raul Longoria, University of Texas, Austin, EEC-0224718

The University of Iowa/University of Texas at Austin Industry/University Cooperative Research Center (I/UCRC) for Virtual Proving Ground Simulation has developed fundamental advances in high-speed mechanical system simulation. This has resulted in a revolutionary new capability to test vehicle designs with a driver interface. These research results made it possible for the University of Iowa and the I/UCRC to win an NSF competition for a Department of Transportation National Advanced Driver Simulation (NADS) facility several years ago.

Artist's conception of the National Advanced Driver Simulation Facility

This recently completed $80M facility is being used for fundamentally new human factors applications involving both vehicle systems engineering and highway safety research under precisely controlled and safe experimental conditions. The research results will significantly increase vehicle and highway safety.