Operator Response Factors in the Location and Control of Foot Pedals

Abstract

The present paper reports a series of experiments concerned with the speed of the operator's response when the positions of foot pedals simulating the accelerator, brake, clutch and floor are varied. Speed of response is assessed in terms of reaction time, movement time and response time. Response complexity is discussed in terms of the neural organization hypothesis. The results provide some support for the hypothesis and these are discussed in terms of the practical implications for the placement and arrangement of foot pedals and controls.