Survey of dimensional features related to windscreen swept area. (Supplementary report to Quality and field of vision - a review of the needs of drivers and riders)

The project entitled ‘Quality and field of vision’ (PPAD 9/33/39) undertaken for DETR required that the effect of A-pillar thickness on driver vision be investigated. In order that a range of vehicles representing the different levels of A-pillar thickness could be used in the experimental work, a survey of vehicles was first undertaken. Whilst the focus of the survey was to measure A-pillar thickness and the driver’s seated position in order to calculate the visual angle obscured, a request was made by the client for further information to be collected at the same time. The additional information collected related to the area of the windscreen swept by the window wipers. This report details the information obtained from this aspect of the survey.