ABSTRACT
A classical two-level preview type driver model with a 'High Bicycle' vehicle model is presented in this paper within the framework of a driver-vehicle system approach. The model provides a firm basis for analysing vehicle handling dynamics. The paper aims to conduct a sensitivity analysis of driver parameters and to explore the effects of driver characteristics on the handling properties of passenger cars. Generic mathematical models of vehicle and driver are implemented. The time domain evolutions in typical manoeuvres are studied through numerical simulations. The essential driver model parameters, namely driver preview time constant and driver delay time constant, are identified through sensitivity analysis, and their effects on the characteristics of vehicle handling are explored. Special attention is paid to the driver preview behaviour and the corresponding parameters. Sensitivity analysis results in the frequency domain showing higher efficiency in analysing the driver model parameter contributions.
