This paper presents the results of a research study in the field of ambient interior lighting in the automotive industry. The effects of various ambient lighting scenarios on the driver's perception of the car interior were investigated. The following parameters were varied: light colour, position and luminance. The investigation focused on the following criteria: space perception, perceived interior quality, interior attractiveness, perceived safety and functionality. The research study confirmed that each criterion was significantly influenced by the various ambient lighting scenarios. Moreover, these influences were not al-ways consciously perceived, since many times the specific lighting fixture was not recognised. However, its effect on the subjective assessments could be told, as in the case of centre console lighting. The results stated clearly that effects such as improved space perception, func-tionality and perceived interior quality can be achieved with few light sources at a relatively low luminance, as in the case of the series scenario, where the crucial zones centre console and door trims are illuminated. Increasing the luminance or the number of light fixtures in the car interior does not bring significant improvements and in some cases impairs driver's vision. Thus, a well arranged and thought out ambient lighting can use fewer components, thereby reducing the production costs while creating a pleasant welcoming atmosphere in the car interior. Moreover, lighting colour affects different criteria in various ways. Thus the choice of colour for ambient lighting has to meet more requirements, nonetheless brand identity, design compliance and effect on different materials. Since a clear colour recommendation could not be given, it appears sensible to leave the driver the choice of determining the ambient colour. From the obtained results, a guideline for developers and manufacturers sugges-ting luminance levels and their tolerance ranges for ambient lighting systems will be derived. In order to achieve a better understanding of the effects of ambient lighting, further investigations have to be conducted: effects of lighting colour on different interior materials as well as dynamic changes in colour and brightness have to be researched.
Results of an experimental study on driver's perception of ambient vehicle lighting
Ergebnisse einer experimentellen Studie über die Wahrnehmung des Fahrers bei Umgebungslicht von Fahrzeugen
2009
9 Seiten, 3 Bilder, 2 Tabellen, 11 Quellen
Conference paper
English
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