A comparison of techniques to mitigate Simulator Adaptation Syndrome

Area of Science:

• Human factors engineering
• Neuroscience
• Transportation safety

Background:

• Simulator adaptation syndrome (SAS) is a common issue affecting individuals using driving simulators.
• Current mitigation strategies for SAS are limited.
• Understanding the physiological mechanisms of SAS is crucial for developing effective countermeasures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effectiveness of galvanic cutaneous stimulation (GCS) and auditory stimulation as countermeasures against SAS.
• To determine if these stimuli can reduce symptoms like head sway associated with SAS.
• To explore the role of balancing ability in mitigating SAS.

Main Methods:

• A driving simulation experiment was conducted with 15 participants.
• Three conditions were compared: GCS, auditory stimulation, and no stimulation (control).
• Participants navigated a virtual urban circuit with curves, and head sway was measured.

Main Results:

• Both GCS and auditory stimulation significantly reduced SAS symptoms.
• Head sway, a key indicator of SAS, was decreased under both stimulation conditions.
• The findings suggest a link between balancing ability and SAS severity.

Conclusions:

• GCS and auditory stimulation are effective countermeasures for mitigating SAS.
• Stimuli influencing balancing ability should be incorporated into future simulator designs.
• Further research into the role of vestibular and proprioceptive systems in SAS is warranted.