Abstract:

In order to enhance driving safety in highway tunnels and to reduce visual distraction and burden caused by improperly designed visual guiding devices, a research framework for the design and evaluation of tunnel visual guiding devices was proposed. A systematic review of domestic and international literature has been conducted to analyze the effectiveness and design parameters of various types of visual guiding devices, and to clarify their key functions in delineating spatial right-of-way, ensuring adequate sight distance, and enhancing visual comfort. In addition, current studies were reviewed to summarize data acquisition methods and core evaluation indicators, thereby constructing a scientific evaluation system. The limitations of existing research were also identified, and future research directions were proposed. The results show that visual guiding devices can optimize the tunnel visual environment by clarifying spatial right-of-way, increasing effective sight distance and visual fields, and mitigating visual illusions. The type and spacing of devices should be determined based on spatial right-of-way, curvature perception, speed perception, and visual comfort. Real-vehicle experiments and indoor simulations serve as key approaches for exploring design parameters and optimization strategies, while field observations and accident data analysis can further validate their effectiveness. Indicators such as visual perception, visual characteristics, physiological responses, and driving behavior are suggested as core evaluation metrics. Moreover, multi-indicator interaction analysis may help reveal the mechanisms by which visual guiding devices influence driver behavior.

Key words: highway tunnels, visual guiding devices, device design, evaluation system, driving safety