Abstract

A non-linear, yet simple, multiplicative human-control model is developed by studying the statistical properties of human subjects’ motor response to a visual input; statistical analysis of the magnitude of the steering angle, from subjects performing a tracking task with a steering wheel, shows that the data is consistent with a log-normal distribution. Thus the possibility of modelling human-control as a multiplicative process, that replicates the statistical properties found in the human-operator is considered. The proposed multiplicative controller is contrasted with real data and with the Crossover Model. This research has potential applications in a wide range of fields, from human performance modelling to the development of human-machine interfaces, particularly in the application of ground vehicle automation.