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This paper describes a human factors simulation study of the decision making behavior of drivers attempting to avoid nonrecurring congestion by diverting to alternate routes with the aid of in-vehicle navigation systems. This study is the first phase of a two part project in which the second phase will apply the driver behavior data to a simulation model analysis of traffic flow. The object of the driver behavior experiment was to compare the effect of various experimental navigation systems on driver route diversion and alternate route selection. The experimental navigation system configurations included three map based systems with varying amounts of situation information and a non map based route guidance system. The overall study results indicated that navigation system characteristics can have a significant effect on driver diversion behavior, with better systems allowing more anticipation of traffic congestion.

The effectiveness of in-vehicle navigation systems in alleviating non-recurrent congestions is examined. Computer simulation modeling is used to assess the effectiveness of four different types of navigation systems consisting of static map, dynamic map, route guidance and advanced route guidance systems. The study is conducted for the Irvine network, Orange County, California. The results of the study shows that the performance of descriptive in-vehicle navigation systems (static map and dynamic map) is dependent on the initial network flow conditions and could lead to severe worsening of traffic condition. The prescriptive systems (route guidance and advanced route guidance) could substantially improve the traffic situation; the performance of these systems is dependent on the level of market penetration, i.e. the fraction of drivers equipped with the navigation system. The appropriate level for the Irvine network is shown to be 30% or more.

This paper describes a laboratory simulation study of driver reaction to in-vehicle navigation systems. The study included a pre-test questionnaire on demographic background and commuting behavior, simulation testing of navigation decision making, and a post-test questionnaire on navigation behavior and reactions to in-vehicle navigation systems and the laboratory simulation. A total of 277 subjects, both male and female, were employed over a wide range of ages. Test subjects were assigned to one of four navigation system groups or a no-system control group for the purpose of comparing system performance. The simulation task required subjects to experience a commuting ‘drive’ on a Southern California freeway route and minimize trip time by diverting off the main route to avoid congestion. Subjects were given orientation and training on the simulation and their navigation system condition, and were motivated by rewards and penalties to minimize trip time.