In the current automobile industry, the demand for ultra-compact vehicles as a means of transportation within a local area for elderly people, for example, for shopping, has been increasing. The effect of vibration of such vehicles on ride comfort is significant because of their small size and light weight, and it increases the discomfort perceived by persons in the vehicle. Moreover, ultra-compact vehicles frequently travel over alleys and unpaved roads; therefore, the ride comfort of ultra-compact vehicles is expected to deteriorate because of bumps, rough roads, and small obstacles. To solve this problem, we have proposed active seat suspension that can be installed in ultra-compact electric vehicles. Thus far, we have examined the control performance of this system and its practicality in terms of ride comfort, with the aim of reducing the vibration acceleration of the seat surface. To improve the ride comfort of vehicles, in addition to reducing the vibration acceleration of the seat surface, it is also necessary to control the vibration on the basis of the ride comfort perceived by drivers such as to reflect the mood and mental state at the time. Most studies have not focused on the psychological and physiological effects of active seat suspension on the ride comfort of ultra-compact vehicles. In this study, we carried out an outdoor traveling experiment and examined the effect of vertical vibrations on ride comfort by evaluating physiological and psychological information.

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In recent years, ultra-compact electric vehicles have been marketed by a number of automobile manufacturers. These vehicles are reportedly desirable as they provide independence for elderly people who tend to not go out often and may feel isolated. Therefore, with an aging population, the demand for ultra-compact electric vehicles is expected to increase in the coming years. Despite these advantages, there are many problems to be solved in terms of the safety and comfort of ultra-compact electric vehicles as mobility means for elderly people. Ultra-compact electric vehicles for elderly people require that the vibration be reduced additionally in light of their cognitive function. On the basis of these considerations, the authors suggest an onboard active seat suspension (ASS), which uses a linear motor for a more comfortable ride. This study clarifies the improvement of visual field stability by the ASS on the basis of an evaluation by electrooculogram (EOG), and it shows the possibility of practical vibration control.

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