Mapping Eye-Movement Patterns to the Visual Scene in Driving: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Eye movements of eight drivers were filmed as the drivers traveled on a local expressway at 50 mi. per hour. Search and scan patterns of the drivers became more compact and the center of location shifted down and to the left as the drivers became more familiar with the route. The center of the final pattern was located above the right road edge marker and slightly higher than the horizon. The task of car following appeared to induce greater visual workload as indicated by increased sampling rates of lane markers and greater visual travel distances to examine road signs and other traffic. The search and scan patterns verified that the peripheral area of the eye is used for monitoring lane position, other vehicles, and road signs so that the fovea may be directed for a closer examination when the situation demands it.