Interface Design for Haul Truck Proximity Advisory Systems

Proximity advisory systems have potential to reduce collision risks associated with surface mining haul trucks by assisting truck drivers to maintain situation awareness. The design of the visual interface by which information is provided is likely to influence the effectiveness of such systems.  A range of information sources were reviewed including best practice guidelines from other industries.  The consequences of different visual interfaces were examined when drivers were presented with potential collision scenarios via a modified haul truck simulator. Additional information available in a schematic proximity advisory visual interface was utilised by drivers to reduce collision risk and braking force, and decrease travel time; although the effects were smaller in a subsequent experiment involving a smaller number of experienced truck drivers.  Design guidelines were developed for haul truck proximity advisory systems.

A series of issues requiring further research were also identified, including: the number of warning stages; acceptable false alarm rate; optimal time to collision threshold to trigger warnings; and the extent and nature of training required to achieve competence in the use of such a proximity advisory system. The experimental paradigm developed for this project offers a potential means of exploring these issues.