DC6. Learning from the whole spectrum of driver behaviour: from unsafe to optimal driving

Mohammad Pashaee

Education
M.Sc. in Mechatronic Engineering at K.N. Toosi University of Technology
B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering at Babol Noshirvani University of Technology
About
I was born and raised in Iran, where I developed a deep fascination for engineering and technology from a young age. Inspired by the potential to positively impact the world, I strived to get a deep understanding of driver behavior, developing a keen interest in hazard perception. My master’s thesis focused on the evaluation of Driver’s Hazard Perception and Performance in Simultaneous Longitudinal and Lateral Control of Vehicle using a driving simulator, with a special emphasis on human factors. This experience enriched my knowledge and fueled my passion for enhancing driver safety.
Subsequently, I worked as a research assistant, where I investigated driver distraction detection in third-level automation based on the driver monitoring system. I also studied human factors affecting vehicle dynamics, such as safety margins and task difficulty. These experiences mesmerized me and deepened my appreciation for the concept of safety and its critical role.

Hosts: TUD & RHDHV

Objectives:

  • To understand and learn from safety as a spectrum, rather than a dual state (safe vs unsafe), on the basis of the Safety-II concept
  • To identify ‘optimal’ driving behaviours (with respect to different road environment, road users, and driving contexts such as weather
  • conditions and traffic) resulting in the spectrum of road safety
  • To understand the contributing factors and collective impact on the safety of different driver behaviours, including behavioural adaptation and resilient driving

Expected results:

  • Development of a novel theoretical perspective towards the definition of safety as a spectrum
  • Development of a new methodological approach for modelling safety from naturalistic driving data
  • Lessons from driver behavioural adaptation and resilience when managing conflicts in everyday driving, by means of a case-study related to ADAS applications

Planned secondment(s):

  • TNO-NL, Purpose: to review and exploit synergies with existing TNO work on the definition of optimal driving
  • LAB-FR, Purpose: to benefit from international exposure; to conduct a case study related to ADAS taking into account vehicle industry perspectives.