The latest research from Nissan could lead to autonomous systems that anticipate drivers’ actions and detect discomfort, improving reaction times and enabling the adaption of autonomous driving style.
The Brain-to-Vehicle (B2V) technology is being demonstrated at CES (held in Las Vegas, Nevada, on 9-12 January 2018), using a driving simulator.
“When most people think about autonomous driving, they have a very impersonal vision of the future, where humans relinquish control to the machines,” said Daniele Schillaci, executive vice president at Nissan. “Yet B2V technology does the opposite, by using signals from their own brain to make the drive even more exciting and enjoyable.”
A device worn by the driver measures their brainwaves, which are then analysed. By detecting a driver’s intended movements when they are about to push the accelerator or turn the wheel, for example the system could initiate these moves 0.2 to 0.5 seconds faster. In autonomous mode, driving style could be adapted to counter driver discomfort. Other possible actions include creating a more relaxing atmosphere on board or adjusting the driver’s view using augmented reality.
“The potential applications of the technology are incredible,” said Dr Lucian Gheorghe, senior innovation researcher at the Nissan Research Center in Japan. “This research will be a catalyst for more Nissan innovation inside our vehicles in the years to come.”
Nissan’s other focuses at CES include the IMx autonomous concept car and the electric Leaf.