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Using the results of lane-change tests performed on a driving simulator, driver models were developed by means of a neural-network system. Several kinds of driver visual information were used as input data for structure of the neural network, and the steering angle was employed as learning information. A series of simulations employing the trained neural network was conducted to determine the allowable ranges of initial vehicle position, velocity, stability factor, and other variables for successful lane-change maneuvers and for stable running against side winds.

There have been various predictions made concerning the future profile for automobiles but such predictions have in many cases been based solely on anticipated advances in technology. In presenting a profile for automobiles in the year 2000, the writers predict the evolution and transfiguration of automobiles, taking both phases in the changing social environment and technical trends into account. Interest in automobiles is expected to shift from hardware to software and then to humanware (i.e. more emphasis is placed on the relationship with human beings), and automobiles will evolve and transfigure reflecting these changes.

Advanced electronics is applied to suspension, engine mount, and power steering systems to realize vehicle performance which would be impossible to achieve using only mechanical components. Superb compatibility is established between soft riding comfort and sharp controllability; reduced body vibration at engine idle and body shock at start-up or gear change; light steering effort at low speed and reliable road feel at high speed. Fail-safe mechanisms arc incorporated in the event of system failure and a central diagnostic terminal is provided for system checking.

While setting the spring constant and the damping coefficient to small values provide a car with good, soft riding comfort on well-paved roads, it causes poor road-holding characteristics on rough roads and large attitude variations during cornering, acceleration and deceleration. Moreover, it compromises the accident avoidance performance and the high speed directional stability. We have overcome these problems by developing the ELECTRONIC-CONTROLLED SUSPENSION (ECS) which normally responds softly but increases the spring constant and the damping coefficient automatically when running at high speed, cornering, accelerating or decelerating.