Safety impact of predictive-forward-collision-warning on human-driven leading vehicle in mixed platoon

Abstract:

To evaluate the impact of predictive-forward-collision-warning (PFCW) on the driving safety of the human-driven leading vehicle during rapid deceleration of the preceding vehicles on freeways, this study designed a connected mixed platoon featuring a human-driven leading vehicle and developed a connected human-machine interface (HMI) with PFCW functionality. Thirty-six participants were recruited for driving simulation experiments that considered platoon configuration (single vehicle or platoon) and connectivity condition (with or without). By selecting driver behavior characteristic indicators, surrogate safety measures, and vehicle operation indicators, the impact of PFCW was analyzed in terms of drivers′ longitudinal risk avoidance behavior, dynamic collision risk, and overall safety of the mixed platoon. The results indicated that PFCW enhances drivers′ longitudinal risk avoidance capabilities and reduces the collision risk of the leading vehicle. The leading vehicle in the connected mixed platoon mode demonstrated the best performance in terms of driver safety, ultimately improving the overall safety of the mixed platoon. The findings provide valuable insights for optimizing PFCW information, developing navigate on autopilot system, and promoting the implementation of connected mixed platoons.