Abstract: A system that classifies driver driving skill based on lane-change maneuvers. The system reads vehicle sensor signals. The system determining that the vehicle has made a lane-change maneuver using the vehicle sensor signals and then classifies the driver's driving skill using selected discriminant features obtained or derived from the lane-change maneuver.

Abstract: A system and method for providing integrated driver skill recognition. The system includes an input switch that receives maneuver identifier signals that identify a plurality of different vehicle maneuvers and data that represents the identified maneuvers. The system also includes a plurality of skill classification processors that selectively receive the data from the input switch depending on the maneuver identifier signals, where a separate skill classification processor is provided for each separate type of maneuver. The skill classification processors classifying the maneuver to determine the driver's driving skill based on the data and provide skill classification signals. An output switch responsive to the skill classification signals from the skill classification processors.

Abstract: A method for determining a driver's driving skill of a vehicle based on straight-line driving behavior. The method can classify driver skill based on three straight-line approaches, namely, a lane-position approach, a steering characteristic approach and a traffic-environment reaction approach.

Abstract: In a driver training program, a manager conducts an observation drive with a program participant. During the observation drive, the manager observes the participant's driving without commenting on the driving. The manager discusses the observations with the participant during the conference, and provides reports to appropriate departments of the company, e.g., human resources, benefits, and fleet maintenance departments. Based on the manager's observations during the observation drive and other information regarding driving skills of the participant, a driver training curriculum is designed for the participant.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and techniques for remotely tracking vehicle and driver behavior. Embodiments may include an on-board vehicle monitoring device, comprising an interface device and a gateway device. The interface device may include receiving information from a diagnostic system of a vehicle. The gateway device may collect a set of vehicle operating data corresponding to a driver or vehicle behavior. The set of vehicle operating data may comprise at least some of the information from the diagnostic system of the vehicle. A host computer may have instructions for compiling driver behavior data, based at least in part on analysis of received vehicle operating data. The instructions may also include instructions for providing a user interface; and instructions for causing the user interface to display, for a user, information corresponding to the compiled driver behavior data.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for simulating the driving behavior of vehicles on a test stand in which the engine of the vehicle is coupled on the test stand to an electronically controllable braking apparatus and a simulation model calculates simulation values of variables which are representative of the driving state of the vehicle in that the reaction of the vehicle to the behavior of the engine and the values of the variables as determined immediately prior thereto are calculated, with at least the vehicle speed and the slip occurring in the driving wheels being calculated as variables. An improved calculation can be achieved in such a way that for controlling the braking apparatus a virtual vehicle speed is used which is changed by a corrective value which depends on the slip.

Abstract: A driving skill improvement device capable of providing appropriate information to a driver and effectively improving the driving skill of the driver from the perspective of vehicle movement is provided. The driving skill computing block 3 computes an ideal vehicle movement state and performs driving skill evaluation based on vehicle information detected by a vehicle information detecting block 1 and information or the like of an obstacle detected by an external information acquiring block 5, and in accordance with a mode selected by the mode selecting block 2, controls an information presenter 4 so as to present information to the driver.

Abstract: Systems, method, and programs evaluate a driving condition of a vehicle in accordance with road characteristic information that is included in map data, acquire evaluation information that includes an evaluation result based on the evaluation, and store the evaluation information. The systems, methods, and programs acquire update data to change the road characteristic information included in the map data, update the map data, and analyze the evaluation result for the evaluation information acquired during the period between the time when a road characteristic is modified and the time when the map data is updated, based on the changed road characteristic information included in the updated map data.

Abstract: Systems and methods for taking risk out of driving are presented. The system comprises an event capture device that records audio, video, and other information that collectively comprise an event. The event data, including the audio, video, and other related information, is provided to an evaluation server where it is stored in a database of events. Driving events can be analyzed singularly or collectively to provide counseling of fleet drivers, reconstruction and forensic analysis of automobile accidents, and driver and/or vehicle scores/ratings.

Abstract: The in-vehicle gaming system is comprised of vehicle controls that are adapted to provide both vehicle control during a normal driving mode and game control inputs during a gaming mode. At least one of the controls is selectively disengaged from the vehicle control during the gaming mode. A display provides an indication to the driver of the game environment in response to the game control inputs.

Abstract: The portable simulation system is a computer-based driving simulator, which uses an actual drive-by-wire vehicle as an input device, and a portable display to present a simulated Virtual Driving Environment (VDE) to the driver. The vehicle remains immobile with engine switched off. Embedded vehicle sensors are being used as simulator controls connecting to a portable computer via OBD II or similar on-board interface. A portable computer runs simulation software or a computer game. Electronic suspension actuators, wherever available, may be used to improve simulation experience by providing a limited vehicle tilt motion. Certain on-board vehicle's computers, including computers for mapping, gaming or entertainment, may be used to run simulation software, thereby reducing the simulator to a software application. Described driving simulator does not require external power source and can be operated at any parking space using any drive-by wire vehicle, including driver's own vehicle.

Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a game apparatus which can provide an experience of vibrations similar to a real experience. The game apparatus relating to the present invention executes a game program to display displayed bodies on a screen and comprises means for simulating vibrations generated by the displayed bodies in a state of motion for the player operating the game apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for a computer to perform a vehicle operation proficiency test and based upon the results, to transfer performance features upgrade data to a vehicle controller. The vehicle controller combines the functionality of an RC controller with that of a “joystick” within the same device by controlling an RC vehicle when used as an RC controller and controlling a computer virtual vehicle game when used as a “joystick.

Abstract: A ride simulator for use with a children's ride-on vehicle. The simulator includes a base, and a mechanism for removably securing to at least one of the wheels of an independently operable children's ride-on vehicle. The mechanism includes a fastener that selectively engages a mount on the wheel to support the wheel and at least a portion of the vehicle above the base. Driven rotation of the wheel to which the fastener is engaged causes reciprocating horizontal and vertical motion of the vehicle with respect to the base, thereby simulating ground-traveling movement of the vehicle.

Abstract: A game device and method for simulating the motion of an object such as a vehicle in a realistic manner, thereby allowing the operator to sense highly realistic motions of the object in at least one dimension. In one aspect of the invention, the game device includes a vehicle simulator for an operator to ride and drive; a motion control mechanism for moving the vehicle simulator; a storage means for retaining a plurality of control data for moving the vehicle simulator in various patterns by assigning the control data respectively to a plurality of flag signals; a basic control means for setting a flag signal which corresponds to an event occurring in accordance with the development of a game by the operator; and a motion control means for reading from the storage means the control data corresponding to the flag signal which has been set, and for giving the control data to the motion control mechanism.

Abstract: This disclosure is directed to novel systems and methods for displaying an interactive event, such as a race car video game. Numerous display devices are disclosed for displaying video and audio elements of the video game to both current players and to individuals not currently playing the video game. The race car video game further has seating for two occupants, a driver and a crew member and has a separate video monitor for the crew member, through which the crew member can selectively view the race from different viewpoints and can obtain race information. The display of the race car game to individuals not currently playing the game varies according to several factors to enhance the attraction and interest in the race car video game.

Abstract: A ride simulator for use with a children's ride-on vehicle. The simulator includes a stationary base, a first support structure extending upwardly from the base for supporting at least a portion of the vehicle above the base, and an actuator for coupling to the vehicle to effect reciprocating horizontal and vertical motion of the vehicle about a defined location on the simulator, thereby simulating ground-traveling movement of the vehicle.

Abstract: Driver training obstacles which are designed to catch and retain the attention of drivers to force a conscious effort to avoid focusing on the obstacle and to take hitting the obstacle as a serious matter. The obstacles fit over conventional traffic cones or other conical supports. They are shaped, colored and designed to visually simulate a variety of objects, including common animal and objects found along the roads, as well as abstract or random designs and objects. Lights and reflective features are also incorporated into some obstacles. Constructed as an envelope from a single or multiple pieces of material, the obstacles fit over one or more cones and can be unitary, elongated or arranged as a flock or group of objects. The obstacles catch and retain the attention of drivers more effectively than conventional standard traffic cones, because of their interesting and attractive features and appearance, they are more difficult to avoid and are a more effective training tool.

Abstract: A reactive ride simulator includes package of sensors along with a telemetry radio transmitter and/or a recorder. This package is carried at a movable remote site, such as aboard an actual vehicle. A radio receiver, or a player for the recorded data from the remote site, is interfaced with a decoder providing a electronic signals which include a replication of the sights, sounds, and motions experienced at the remote site. A motion base is used to provide the accelerations necessary to replicate the G-forces experienced at the remote site, while a cabin on this motion base is associated with audio/visual presentation devices so that a passenger on the reactive ride simulator also receives the audio/visual sensations of being present at the remote site. As a result, the passenger on the reactive ride simulator receives a sensory experience of being at the remote site, or of riding on the actual vehicle, while actually moving only slightly on the motion base.

Abstract: An apparatus with a tire that is capable of castering 360 degrees replaces the rear wheels of a front wheel powered automotive vehicle to give drivers an educational experience that simulates the effects excessive speed has upon entry into curves and turns. The rear wheels can remain locked in a non-castering position, whereby the vehicle will perform in a conventional manner. However, under the control of an instructor, the lock can be removed to free the casters, causing the rear of the vehicle to move in the opposite direction from the steering input to simulate a rear wheel skid. When the vehicle on which the invention is mounted is being driven in a straight path the freely castering rear wheels will trail in a straight path. When there is a change in lateral position, such as that which occurs when entering a curve or making a turn, the rear castering wheels will continue to travel in a straight direction causing a lateral acceleration resulting in a rear yaw.

Abstract: A vehicle remote control system includes at least one remote controlled vehicle and a remote control station for each of the at least one remotely controlled vehicles. Each control station allows a user to control the operation of one of the remote control vehicles. Each remote controlled vehicle includes a camera having a lens with a field of view in a direction toward a forward path of travel for that vehicle. In a preferred embodiment, the vehicle is a car and includes various sensors for monitoring the operation of various parameters of the vehicle, such as speed. Each car is equipped with an instrument panel located in the field of view of the lens as well as two side rear view mirrors, one attached to a left fender and the other to a right fender, which are also located in the field of view of the lens.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for testing the effects of a motor vehicle accident, by using at least one motor vehicle to reproduce the accident as it actually occurred. To simulate the accident, one or more vehicles are moved in a travel path corresponding to the actual situation, and if required under the influence of environmental conditions at the time, by controlling the speed, steering and braking of the vehicle in accordance with the accident as it actually happened.

Abstract: A simulator system adaptable to an actual craft or existing simulator is disclosed. The system comprises computer hardware and software capable of simulation, combinations of simulations and networked simulations. Computer inputs come from sensors attached on or near control and operation members. Computer output is sent to overlay displays and other components. Visual, audio and motion cuing systems are added to increase realism where appropriate to the simulation. All equipment may be quickly and easily installed or removed so as to make maximum use of an otherwise inoperative craft or allow for diversity and upgrading of existing simulators. By the use of computer program modifications and component construction, the system may be used to simulate a wide variety of craft, including air, ground, naval and space craft.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a simulator for wind surfing which includes a webbed foundation, a wind surfer support, a pivot for allowing the support to pivot in relation to the foundation, and a brake for restricting the pivoting motion of the support.

Abstract: The training aid described herein is used to train operators of equipment, generally heavy mobile equipment, and comprises a briefcase-sized unit having a connector cable within releasably connects to the control systems and indicators on the vehicle, which have been modified in several ways. The control unit in the briefcase is capable of either simulating one or more abnormal conditions in the equipment by overriding normal readings such as on indicators, meters or alarms, or additionally actual abnormal conditions can be created in the equipment by degrading brakes, the retarder system, hydraulic steering mechanism, or actually killing the engine or the propulsive power of the unit.