Computer technology has made it possible to model and simulate various aspects of life on planets. These simulations are useful in helping us understand the situations we will face and even to help us prepare physically. Simulators of all types are available, but the most popular are driving and flying simulators. Many parents have asked us at our driving school in Canberra if driving simulators (from arcade machines to video games to professional systems) work. This depends on many factors, so it is important to consider these when preparing your child for the road.
Let's take a look at how driving simulators prepare young drivers.
Young Drivers Need More Preparation
Driving is an essential part of modern life. Most people will drive every day for at least part of their lives. It seems that traditional driver education is not sufficient. Many teens make fatal mistakes behind the wheel every year. This is due to a lack of preparation for all the conditions roads may encounter throughout the year and a lack of crash training.
Driving Simulators Work Better Than Old Models
Simulators can feel and look just like real life thanks to the rapid development of technology over recent years. While driving around circuits may improve motor skills, they don't prepare youth for other road conditions and potential accidents.
Driving simulators are best used to simulate dangerous road conditions and possible accidents. These simulators may seem scary to young drivers, but they will allow them to test different driving techniques until they discover what works. Simulating in fear can help to anchor the memory and give them a strategy for dealing with difficult situations. To ensure that you choose the best simulator for your child, it is important to compare the various options available.
Simulators Of Different Types
Today, there are three types of Driver-in the-loop (DIL), simulators: Entertainment DIL; Human Factors DIL; and Vehicle Dynamics DIL.
Entertainment DIL
Entertainment DILs are the most well-known type of driving simulator. They can be used for everything from simple gaming installations to high-end commercial installations that are used in amusement parks or events. These systems are typically graphics-oriented, while commercial-grade systems use a mockup vehicle cockpit and motion and audio systems to increase realism. The entertainment DIL systems are not compatible with sophisticated vehicle simulator tools and therefore unsuitable to automotive engineers.
These systems are frequently endorsed by professional drivers to help with learning and practicing driving techniques. An Entertainment DIL system can be a great place for your child to learn if they don't have any driving experience.
DIL Human Factor
These driving simulators, named after their human component, simulate driving in the real world. Human Factor DILs can be used to assess the physiological reactions and behavior of human drivers. These DILs are a valuable tool in learning and practicing driving. Because of their complexity, these systems are better at emulating various road conditions and possible accidents than the Entertainment DIL.
These systems are complex and can be costly to operate due to their intricate nuances. Before allowing your child to use a Human Factor DIL, we recommend that they practice in an Entertainment DIL.
DIL Vehicle Factor
These simulators are the most current in the DIL world and can be used to assess various aspects of a car rather than the driver. These simulators can be as accurate or as accurate as of the Human Factor DIL but they are not useful for practicing driving.