EDM Ltd has completed a full upgrade of the interface vehicle and visual display system for the University of Leeds’ Advanced Driving Simulator (LADS), one of the most sophisticated driving research platforms in Europe.
Originally designed and delivered by EDM in 2006, the simulator has supported high-fidelity research into driver behaviour, transport safety, and human factors for almost two decades. The University commissioned EDM to modernise key elements of the system, ensuring it continues to meet the demands of current and future research programmes.
The project included the full design, manufacture, assembly, and installation of:
- A new Nissan Qashqai interface vehicle, replacing the legacy Jaguar S-Type
- Integration of all vehicle systems required for simulator operation, including CAN-bus connectivity, driver-monitoring cameras, force-feedback steering, pedal systems, and seat-belt and weight sensors
- A new cylindrical visual display screen, engineered and manufactured by EDM to fit the existing platform
- A new projector mounting system, compatible with the University’s updated projection technology
- Refurbishment and integration of control, communication, and audio systems
- Factory Acceptance Testing at EDM and final on-site installation at the Institute for Transport Studies
Throughout the project, EDM worked closely with the University of Leeds team to refine the exact technical functionality of the vehicle and ensure seamless compatibility with existing motion, control, and research systems.
The completed upgrade enhances the overall fidelity of the simulator and expands the capability for complex user studies, including:
- Driver reaction and behaviour monitoring
- Traffic safety and transport modelling
- Real-world vehicle system interaction
- Controlled environment behavioural analysis
This project continues a long and successful collaboration between EDM and the University of Leeds, bringing together EDM’s UK-based engineering team, in-house manufacturing, and specialist expertise in high-fidelity research simulators.
