Digital human modelling and immersive simulation for User Experience

The aim of this area is to develop models, methods and digital simulation tools for the "user-centred" ergonomic design of future driver assistance and automation systems. The aim is to gain a better understanding of the needs and expectations of future users from the earliest stages of the design process. Based around the COSMODRIVE (COgnitive Simulation MOdel of the DRIVEr) simulation model and the V-HCD (Virtual Human Centred Design) virtual design platform, this research is making it possible, on the one hand, to observe, analyse and then model the reasoning and behaviour of individuals immersed in virtual road environments and, on the other, to invite today's users to 'experience the future' by taking a seat in future virtually simulated vehicles.

Simulation also makes it possible to use a digital twin of the user to prototype and then virtually evaluate future assistance functions. As part of work carried out in partnership with engineering teams, this platform can also be interfaced with the on-board algorithms of real vehicles in order to realistically simulate automated driving, or to assess the automaton's ability to manage its interactions with different human driver profiles (simulated using COSMODRIVE). Mixed use of V-HCD, with drivers and pedestrians cohabiting, is also possible, making it possible to study the interactions and strategies of these different road users, either by carrying out cross-experiments involving human participants, or by using virtual co-simulation.

Finally, as part of a cognitive engineering approach ('Human Centred AI'), the work carried out at LESCOT also involves the development and prototyping of algorithms aimed at equipping the technology with an AI capable of managing its interactions with the user in the manner of another human ('Human-Like' systems), thereby promoting its use and acceptability.