Hosse, R. S.; Schwarze, A.; Beisel, D.; Schnieder, E.:
Systems-Theoretic Analysis of Interdisciplinary Control Loops within the Traffic System Taking into Account a Behavioral Human-Machine-Interface.
PSAM 11 & ESREL 2012 , Helsinki, Finland, Juni 2012.
Abstract: Analyzing traffic safety requires an interdisciplinary research approach. Hazard analyzing methodologies using event-chain models, e.g. FMEA (failure mode and effects analysis), neglect the cascaded feedback loops of systems’ resources, e.g. equipment and personnel, of dynamic open complex adaptive systems. The hazard analysis method STAMP (systems-theoretic accident modeling and process) offers an adequate methodology, which is capable of analyzing the operative relationships between systems’ resources by modeling static control structures and system dynamics models. The results identify the several cascaded control loops of politics, psychology, society, traffic and economy. Furthermore the qualitative system dynamics model of the traffic system elucidates the goal-seeking behavior in reducing deathly accidents. A significant hazard has been identified in the lack of a control loop, which makes the driver realize the degree of controllability of a driving situation and thus the regulatory compliance. Often illegal driving-behavior is rewarded, e.g. driving too fast, by not being avenged. Therefore the probability of resuming illegal behavior is increasing and the accident rate too. One of the keys increasing traffic safety lies in envisioning the controllability of a driving situation, which is measured as the difference between the situational demands and individual driver’s skills. The implementation of the VIDE-Displays within the vehicle dashboard, which is a behavioral science-based human machine interface, enables a shortening of the control loops affecting drivers’ behavior. VIDE itself produces stimuli that have an inhibitory effect due to accumulated learning processes in the behavioral regulation. Thus VIDE is able to influence directly the driving-behavior and generate a positive effect on traffic safety. Keywords: Systems-Theory; Systems Safety; Systems-Theoretic Accident Modeling and Process; STAMP; Traffic Safety; Psychology, Behavioral Science; System Dynamics.