Blue Light Exposure and Visual Distraction Effect of The Cognition Brain Waves of Driver in Car Simulator at Night

Abstract

Driving is a complex activity and driver must respond quickly and accurately to any visual distraction. Accidents are high while driving at night, may due to drivers’ drowsiness which is caused by the environmental light that affect the circadian rhythm. Blue light is a component of the solar spectrum and inhibit the secretion of melatonin hormone that can prevent drowsiness at night. This study is aimed to evaluate the effect of blue light exposure on β brain waves while driving at night in the simulator as a response to visual distraction. Brain waves data were obtained from electroencephalograph in brain cognition area from 7 men with predetermined criteria. Data were taken from 7–9 pm for 330 seconds in dark condition and blue light exposure followed by the appearance of visual distraction automatically at 120 and 270 seconds and should be responded by braking. The result showed than β brain waves increased under blue light which was associated with area of cognition and was significantly different when compared to dark condition (p<0.05). It is concluded that blue light exposure at night driving in simulator increase drivers’ alertness and attention when responding to visual distraction, especially in the first appearance.