Researches recommend solutions to lessen motion sickness in autonomous vehicles

Researches from University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute conducted a research on the problem of motion sickness that is experienced by individuals while riding a self-driving car. Motion sickness, which is also called airsickness or kinetosis results in severe headaches, nausea and vomiting. The research was done to find a way to reduce the effect.

People who ride a self-driving car include in various activities like make-ups, changing clothes, reading, which makes them experience more episodes of motion sickness or car sickness.

According to Michael Sivak, and Brandon Schoettle from University of Michigan, motion sickness is expected to be more of an issue in self-driving vehicles than in conventional vehicles.

This happens due to three main factors contributing, which include conflict between vestibular (balance) and visual inputs, inability to anticipate the direction of motion and lack of control over the direction of motion.

Sivak said, "However, the frequency and severity of motion sickness is influenced by the activity that one would be involved in instead of driving".

Sivak and Schoettle have suggested that car manufacturers can design self-driving vehicles to lessen the problem. This design can be done by maximizing the visual field with large, transparent windows; mounting transparent video and work displays that require passengers to face forward.

The manufactures can also help in eliminating swivel seats, restricting head motion and installing fully reclining seats. People riding a self-driving car must avoid playing on their smartphones or tablets or watching movie. They have been advised to take a nap or watch the road.