ABSTRACT
A driving simulator provides versatile, controllable, economical, and safe platform for researchers. However, one aspect worthy of special attention is the issue of validity. Next to visual feedback, steering wheel torque feedback is a very important feedback channel in simulators. This paper discussed how the fidelity of a driving simulator was improved by adding a steering torque feedback system to ensure a high level of simulator validity. We used subjective evaluation and objective vehicle handling tests to assess the effectiveness of the feedback system. The results show that the addition of torque feedback increased driver’s concentration on handling vehicle and enhanced the fidelity of the simulator.
