Special Suit Replicates Elderly Drivers
Japanese designers at the Nissan Technology Center (NTC) outside Tokyo have created a special suit that will replicate the complications caused by elderly drivers.
Each part of the suit works to restrict physical movement by simulating pain caused by arthritis and. It also includes special dark colored cataract goggles that reduce the vision of the driver. The suit’s raised front-toe design mimics the effects of poor balance.
"As we get older, it can become harder to perform physical maneuvers. When it comes to driving, that can mean more difficulty seeing writing on the switch gear, reach and use controls, distinguish colors on navigation equipment or get in and out of seats,” said Nissan Design Engineer Etsuhiro Watanabe.
Restrictions are also created at the elbows using a complex system of levers. Checking on neck movement is also important as it can influence how well a driver is able to use the door mirrors and how easy – or difficult – it is to look back whilst reversing, according to Nissan engineers.
Engineers hope that test results of the so-called universal design initiative will enable them to design new features geared toward the needs of the aging population.
"This is a critical part of our vehicle research and shows Nissan is alert to the changing needs of drivers and at the leading edge of vehicle development," Watanabe said.
Many of the drivers involved with testing the suit were in their 20s and 30s.
Over 40 percent of Nissan’s Japanese and U.S. sales are to customers over 50 years old, according to the company.
“It’s very difficult to drive,” said Nissan’s Naoki Yamamoto.
"You lose the freedom you’re accustomed to, and while you can move, there are limitations, such as turning the steering wheel or switching on the blinker."
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