Articles tagged with Automobiles
Research from the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management shows that consumers often gravitate towards the most similar remaining option when one attractive choice becomes unavailable. This phenomenon, known as the 'phantom decoy effect,' can have significant impacts on consumer preference and even election outcomes.
A comprehensive study found that laws limiting underage drinking to 21 have led to an eleven percent drop in alcohol-related traffic fatalities among youth. Tougher sanctions on fake IDs also resulted in a seven percent decrease in fatalities among young drivers.
A network of sensors proposed by Penn State researchers could monitor cars in parking lots, tracking their location and sending alerts if a vehicle is stolen. The system relies on trust among monitored cars to protect against false positives and false alarms.
Researchers at Indiana University and Harvard University have discovered a protein called EpsE that acts like a clutch to temporarily stop the rotation of a bacterium's flagellum. The discovery sheds light on how bacteria balance movement and biofilm formation, which can be crucial in combating bacterial infections.
Children from poor areas are four times more likely to sustain serious injuries while walking or cycling compared to their affluent peers. Serious injury rates vary by settlement type and location, highlighting persistent inequalities.
A recent Carnegie Mellon University study found that listening to cell phones while driving can cause significant impairments, including a 37% decrease in brain activity associated with driving. Drivers who listened to their cell phones committed more lane maintenance errors and had reduced spatial sense and navigation.
Researchers found that tiny fluctuations in car-road density cause a chain reaction leading to traffic jams. A critical density threshold exists, and once exceeded, gentle braking causes a standstill.
A team of researchers from Fraunhofer Techologie-Entwicklungsgruppe has developed a measurement device to analyze the electromechanical properties of bucky paper actuators. The study provides insights into the actuation mechanism of carbon nanotubes and suggests future directions for research.
Researchers at MIT are developing novel thermoelectric materials that can control temperatures efficiently, leading to substantial energy savings. These materials have already resulted in a consumer product - a simple cooling system for car seats in hot climates.
Researchers found that consumers are more likely to anthropomorphize products with features associated with human traits, such as loyalty or helpfulness. This study's findings suggest that marketers' efforts to create personable brands may shift the evaluation process from product to human characteristics.
A new electronic system created by researchers from the University of Granada improves driving ability at night using information extracted from night visors. The system makes intelligent cars more sophisticated by informing drivers about obstacles on the road.
A simulation model predicts optimal toll charges to minimize travel time and maximize revenues while reducing traffic jams. The model considers factors such as traveler flexibility and preferences, providing policy makers with a quicker insight into the outcomes of policy measures.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a fast and inexpensive method to detect palladium and platinum, reducing the time required for chemical analysis from days to just one hour. This breakthrough could streamline pharmaceutical production and mining processes, making these essential metals more accessible.
A radical vision suggests London could reduce emissions by 72% if all cars are banned and active transport like walking and cycling is prioritized. The proposal offers a solution to achieve the UK's 2030 carbon reduction goal, with benefits for public health and safety.
Researchers at Stanford University measure secondhand smoke concentrations in automobiles and find that passengers are exposed to unhealthy levels of particulates. The study's findings suggest that banning smoking in cars with children present could help reduce the risk of health problems.
Children involved in car accidents with ill-fitting seatbelts are at higher risk for 'seat-belt syndrome,' a complex of spine and abdomen injuries. Healthcare professionals should be vigilant for signs of more serious injury, such as spinal cord or vertebral fractures.
Researchers at the University of Washington developed software that allows for real-time visualization of air flow around speeding cars, creating a new effect for racing coverage. The technology uses Navier-Stokes equations to simulate complex systems quickly, enabling interactive simulations in video games and other applications.
Immediate license suspension for DWI saves 800 lives each year by deterring drunk driving, with more severe penalties after conviction having little impact. Laws allowing immediate suspensions reduce fatalities among light, moderate and heavy drinkers.
A new study found that immediate suspension of a driver's license upon failure of an alcohol breath test can reduce alcohol-related fatalities by five percent, saving hundreds of lives annually. This effect is seen across all demographics and circumstances, including individuals with just one or two drinks.
Researchers found that platooning with four vehicles reduces drag, saves fuel and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. Cars in a platoon experience lower drag coefficients as they move closer together.
Researchers have developed a new type of NOx Storage Reduction (NSR) catalytic converter that alternates between lean-burn conditions to reduce emissions and fuel-rich periods for regeneration. This technology has yielded important insights into the function of various components in the catalytic converter.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed software that enables smart traffic boxes to detect road incidents more efficiently, reducing communication costs by up to 90% and achieving accuracy rates of over 90%. This innovation aims to help transportation authorities identify incidents more effectively, thereby reducing conges...
Research reveals that online research largely replaces in-dealership price negotiations and test drives. Online information sources have become the most widely used, substituting traditional sources such as Consumer Reports. This shift implies a better-informed buyer who is ready to negotiate.
Researchers measured pollutants from secondhand smoke near bars and restaurants with indoor smoking bans, finding a rise in pollutants associated with an increase in smokers. The study suggests that secondhand smoke is present in these outdoor zones, potentially creating unhealthy environments for non-smokers.
A University of Illinois study explores how family members perceive unequal treatment by parents, revealing that siblings who share a common understanding of parental behavior tend to get along better. The research emphasizes the significance of open dialogue and active listening among family members.
A recent study has found that people with sleep apnea are twice as likely to be involved in a car crash and three to five times more likely to have a serious crash involving personal injury. The study, which analyzed data from 800 patients with sleep apnea and 800 without the condition, highlights the severity of the risk.
Young female drivers are showing an alarming increase in fatal automobile crashes related to alcohol use and a failure to use seatbelts. Airbag studies suggest that these occupants, especially those under 4'11
Researchers analyzed crash test injuries with CT imaging to improve car safety. The study found that CT scans accurately predicted rib cage damage caused by simulated car collisions.
A study investigates the impact of methylphenidate on young ADHD drivers' ability to focus while navigating real-world distractions. The research team aims to determine if controlled-release stimulant medication improves driving performance in such situations.
New research by Cardiff University suggests Edward G Budd developed the first all-steel car body, enabling true mass production. The innovation resulted in stiffer, safer, and stronger cars with easier painting and repair.
Researchers argue that bone quality is a flawed concept due to lack of precise definition and established measurement methods. The idea was initially proposed as a solution to explain the paradox of osteoporosis, but ultimately relies on increasing whole bone strength rather than targeting specific 'bone quality' features.
A transportation study published by researchers at the University of Oregon has found that pedestrians typically walk half a mile to access light rail stations, contradicting common assumptions. The study highlights the importance of proximity to destinations and lack of major walking barriers over pedestrian-friendly environments.
Researchers at ASU are working on a new fuel cell technology designed for large-scale power generation, which can efficiently generate electrical power while minimizing heat management needs. The team aims to develop a membrane that operates at high temperatures, reducing size, weight, and costs.
Junior, Stanford University's new autonomous robot, joins the DARPA Urban Challenge with enhanced sensors and sophisticated AI software. Its brain is four times more powerful than its predecessor Stanley, collecting and processing vast amounts of data from sensors such as lasers, radar, and video cameras.
The USC researchers have created two novel CMOS architectures for 'biometric radar' and automobile accident avoidance systems. One chip can detect living victims in rubble by analyzing minute movements caused by breathing and heartbeat, while the other uses a low-cost CMOS chip to detect ultrawideband signals.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed mathematical models to simulate and analyze the rattling of car headrests, a major source of consumer dissatisfaction. The models can predict which vibration frequencies cause the rattling and enable automakers to tune their suspension systems more effectively.
Researchers developed a biological model of visual processing inspired by the brain to recognize objects in busy street scenes. The model achieved surprising versatility and learned from examples, validating biologically-inspired computer science.
The nanotechnology sector is expected to employ over 2 million workers by 2015, but risk research funding is limited, leading to a need for targeted studies on worker exposures. A 'control banding' approach could provide a middle ground between inaction and banning all nanomaterials as hazardous.
Research in Birmingham, UK found that children who walked less were more likely to worry about strangers, lack of local parks, and prefer car travel. Higher walking levels correlated with perceptions of heavy traffic, yet these views didn't deter kids from walking.
A new comprehensive study by Saint Louis University researchers has identified the top 10 features of activity-friendly communities, which can help improve public health. The study's findings emphasize the importance of designing communities that encourage physical activity, such as mixed-use development, sidewalks, and bike lanes.
Research finds that consumers who base their decisions on emotional responses are more satisfied with their purchases, both immediately and three weeks later. The study suggests that it can be beneficial for consumers to consider feelings when making purchasing decisions.
Researchers at Ford Motor Company tested four driver warning systems to help combat drowsy driving. The study found that these systems cut drivers' reaction time in half, with the steering wheel vibration warning being the most effective.
A recent study published in Injury Prevention calls for increased vigilance on car manufacturers' commitment to road safety initiatives. The research analyzed word frequency analysis of road safety documents from the Global Road Safety Partnership and found that commercial interests often conflict with evidence-based recommendations.
Researchers found that smoking in cars can produce unsafe levels of secondhand tobacco smoke, posing a significant risk to children's health. The study measured concentrations rated 'hazardous' by the EPA, highlighting the need for smoke-free environments for children both in cars and homes.
A new study by Harvard University researchers found that car secondhand smoke levels can be hazardous to children, with pollution exceeding the EPA's unhealthy threshold. The study measured tobacco smoke in cars and found average levels of 272 micrograms when the driver's side window was opened slightly.
Researchers found that airbags and antilock brakes may not be effective in reducing accidents and injuries, as drivers adapt to the new safety features by becoming less vigilant. The study used data from Washington state drivers over a five-year period, tracking 1,307 drivers with varying levels of safety feature adoption.
Researchers found that humans can learn complex structures simultaneously from multiple sources, such as tones and colors or speech. However, performance drops when two sets of sequences are from the same perceptual class of stimuli, like two sets of speech stimuli.
The winning entry analyzed automobile manufacturers' sales data to optimize promotional activity, resulting in $2 billion savings. The prize recognizes outstanding implementation of marketing science concepts and methods in real-world applications.
A study found that exposure to similar logos reduces brand-exclusive recall by one-third, on average. Consumers' relative knowledge of the two product categories also impacts retrieval.
A Penn State study found no evidence of youth targeting in alcohol magazine ads, despite criticism and proposals for stricter limits. The study analyzed 28 magazines and found significant effects from advertisement price, audience size, and adult demographics.
A study found that even a mild dose of alcohol can significantly impair attention and increase the likelihood of missing unexpected visual stimuli. The researchers' findings have serious implications for drivers, as they may not be able to process multiple sources of information simultaneously.
A recent study published by University of Utah psychologists found that drivers using handheld or hands-free cellular phones are as impaired as drunken drivers. The study's lead author, David Strayer, suggests that legislators should consider outlawing cell phone use while driving to address driver distraction.
Researchers found that occupants of the middle back seat are 59-86% safer than front-seat passengers and 25% safer than other back-seat passengers. The study analyzed data from fatal crashes in the US between 2000 and 2003, controlling for various factors to confirm the safety advantage of the middle back seat.
The study found that child safety seats reduced risk of death by 21% compared to seat belts alone, and by 28% when excluding serious misuse. Child restraint systems offer improved protection for smaller children, making them a crucial safety measure.
A Florida State University researcher is creating unmanned ground vehicles to patrol areas without putting soldiers in harm's way. The Center for Intelligent Systems, Control, and Robotics is also working on algorithms that enable autonomous devices, such as wheelchairs and self-parking cars.
A software framework called PERM allows neighbors to pool their internet access, enhancing connectivity without additional costs. The framework uses flow-scheduling algorithms to select the best connection and ensures mutual benefit, security, and privacy for registered users.
A new study found that performing even simple tasks while driving slows down reaction times, demonstrating the psychological-refractory period effect in real-world conditions. The research involved a car simulator and showed participants brake more slowly when easy tasks were presented simultaneously or before brake lights.
Researchers at Princeton University developed a new modeling technique that can predict and negate the noise produced by air flowing across a car's sunroof. The technique uses computer simulations to manipulate the air flow and cancel out the acoustic waves, resulting in a quieter aircraft. This innovation has important military applic...
Researchers at MIT have created a new type of ultracapacitor using nanotube structures, which can increase the storage capacity by up to 25 times. This innovation has the potential to provide a more efficient and economically viable alternative to conventional batteries.
A comprehensive survey of physical activity in children reveals that about half of active kids participate in non-organized sports, such as biking or walking to a friend's house. The study also highlights demographic and social factors that influence physical activity levels in children.