Photo: WYDOT
Director Luke Reiner “driving” a simulator a UW’s Driving Simulation Laboratory (WYOSIM).
Hands-on research
A WYDOT Research Advisory Committee (RAC) project covered a portion of the costs for the simulators. The RAC works with UW, the WRI and internally to pursue different research opportunities and ideas related to WYDOT operations. WYOSIM was utilized as part of a study regarding safety effectiveness of regulatory headlight signs, like dynamic messaging signs. WYDOT is always looking to improve, and research is a key way to ensure we are using the best available methods, tools and technologies in our operations. The RAC and WYDOT’s Research Center choose projects that enhance the economic well-being and quality of life in Wyoming by working with public and private partners, with the goal of meeting our mission of providing a safe and efficient transportation system. Funding for research can come from a variety of sources, including Federal fuel tax allocations, state funds and the National Cooperative Highway Research Program, a joint program between the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, the Federal Highway Administration and the Transportation Research Board. Beyond the project with WYOSIM, research projects WYDOT is currently conducting include studies on high-mast light towers, avalanche mitigation, guardrail improvements and overweight vehicles and their impact on bridges, among others. In addition to the work done at UW and the WRI, research work also takes place at WYDOT headquarters in Cheyenne, where projects can utilize the Materials Lab and the Geology Lab. n Photo: WYDOT
By Jordan Achs In early November, WYDOT Director Luke Reiner visited the Western Research Institute (WRI) as well as the University of Wyoming’s College of Engineering to check out research technology and projects related to WYDOT operations. While there, Reiner got to try out UW’s Driving Simulation Laboratory (WYOSIM), the only one in the state. The motion-based driving simulator consists of both a passenger vehicle and a commercial vehicle open-cockpit cab. Each is fitted with screens, surround-sound stereos, motion-platforms and even a rumble pack in the floor to make drivers feel they’re in a real vehicle rather than a simulated version. It’s not just the driving motions that seem life-like; WYOSIM can also mimic different weather conditions and even allows researchers to construct new and dynamic driving situations to aid in specific research. Of course, while drivers experiment, the software is constantly collecting data for researchers.
Reiner behind the wheel of a simulated vehicle.
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December 2021
