Abstract
Trams are experiencing a resurgence with worldwide network expansion driven by the need for sustainable and efficient cities. Trams often operate in shared or mixed-traffic environments, which raise safety concerns, particularly in hazardous situations. This paper adopts an international, mixed-methods approach, conducted through two interconnected studies in Melbourne (Australia) and Birmingham (UK). The first study involved qualitative interviews, while the second was an experimental study involving a virtual reality (VR) simulator and haptic master controller (i.e., speed lever). In tram operations, master controllers play a critical role in ensuring a smooth ride, which directly influences passenger safety and comfort. The objective was to understand how a master control system, enhanced with additional haptic feedback, could improve tram driver braking performance and perceptions in safety-critical scenarios. Interview results indicate that the use of the emergency brake is considered the final or ultimate choice by drivers, and their driving experience is a moderating factor in limiting its application. Combined with the experimental results, this paper highlights how implementing haptic feedback within a master controller can reduce the performance disparity between novice and experienced tram drivers.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Article number | 104206 |
Number of pages | 13 |
Journal | Applied Ergonomics |
Volume | 116 |
Early online date | 22 Dec 2023 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Apr 2024 |
Bibliographical note
© 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd. This is an open access article under the CC BY license( http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative
Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/),
which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium,
provided the original work is properly cited..
Funder
This research has been sponsored by Coventry University (UK) through the Grant Scheme “Cross-Centre International and Interdisciplinary Pilot Projects” (Award No 13705-03) and has received support by Deakin University (Australia).Keywords
- Emergency braking
- Haptic feedback
- Road safety
- Streetcar
- Tram
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Human Factors and Ergonomics
- Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation
- Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality
- Engineering (miscellaneous)