Occupants' comfort
what about human body dynamics in road and rail vehicles?
Georgios Papaioannou (TU Delft - Intelligent Vehicles)
C. Shen (TU Delft - Railway Engineering)
Malte Rothhamel (KTH Royal Institute of Technology)
R. Happee (TU Delft - Intelligent Vehicles)
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Abstract
Transportation and mobility are experiencing a significant transformation the recent years, which is evident in road (vehicles and bicycles) and rail vehicles. This transformation includes the introduction of automated vehicles (AVs), the increase of active transportation modes (e.g. cycling and walking) and the extended use of trains for commuting to work or travelling. However, despite this great transition, there are significant challenges that can hamper the wide use of these transport means, with comfort being one of them. In this paper, we explore physical comfort in these transport modes, examining ride comfort and motion sickness definitions and assessment, environmental influences, occupant postures, human body dynamics, and postural control strategies for adapting to motion. We conclude that while established comfort guidelines exist for conventional vehicles, substantial gaps persist in understanding and evaluating comfort in emerging modes like bicycles and automated vehicles with varied seating. Further research into modelling human body dynamics and the central nervous system's role in postural control, especially for cyclists and non-conventional postures, is essential for designing future transportation systems that prioritise comfort and health.
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