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Driver behavior in obtaining information through rearview mirrors and head turns was analyzed for novice, young experienced, and mature drivers during daytime driving on a freeway route. No significantly different mirror sampling patters were obtained when the horizontal fields of view of the plane left side and inside mirrors were expanded by approximately 25%. Some difference in behavior did occur between the mature and the other drivers, especially in mirror use when driving straight ahead. The total time to obtain information for left merges was significantly larger than for left and right lane changes and a right merge. Finally, the time required to obtain information to make a decision for a left or right lane change without execution was considerably less than the time needed when the maneuver was actually executed.

In the faceted reflector design for automotive lamps, the reflector is divided into easy-to-fabricate, circular cylindrical segments (facets) in a manner such that the reflector alone produces the beam pattern. The prescription for the facets is developed with the aid of computer programs which simulate the images from each facet and “build up” the desired light pattern mathematically, thus eliminating the normal “cut-and-try” experimental buildup. The design procedure was applied to a fog lamp with a 55 W quartz-halogen bulb and several prototypes have been constructed. The broad beam pattern from these lamps is most suitable for driving in a fog and the lamp with a clear lens offers styling flexibility. The faceted reflector concept can also be applied to headlamps, driving lamps, and signal lamps.