Shan Bao, PhD 

I am an Associate Research Scientist in the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute’s Human Factors Group. I received my PhD in mechanical and industrial engineering from the University of Iowa in 2009. My research interests are to improve safety associated with motor-vehicle transportation by addressing both active safety (increased crash avoidance) and passive safety (increased crash protection) issues through the development and application of a wide range of research methodologies. These methodologies are targeted at developing a better understanding and modeling of driver behavior, including physical and cognitive attributes, driver decision-making processes and human intention prediction.

 

I am currently interested in the:

• Driver distraction state detection and prediction

• Training and education to improve user understanding of automated vehicle technologies

• Communication and interaction between vehicle and vulnerable road users

• Seat belt use behavior and the effectiveness of seat belt interlock systems

• Driving style classification

• Human factors issues associated with connected and automated vehicle technologies