System integration is undoubtedly one of the greatest risks and challenges in a complex, multi-disciplinary project, such as a driving simulator. When the University of Leeds sought an integrator to develop its driving simulator, they received several enthusiastic responses from the industry. Each provider was keen to be part of this exciting project. However, the problem became clear: all of the offers were beyond the budget available.
There is another way: Define each major system in such detail that each specialist supplier is able to produce only that system. Ensure that the specification considers the interface with each other system. Ensure there are no gaps or uncertainties.The result of this process led to the Leeds University Driving Simulator, co-ordinated by IDT. The project was realised for a budget within the finances available to the university, and with the involvement of the skilled internal staff, a complete system was achieved.Today, the Leeds Driving Simulator is used for studies in driver behaviour, the impact of driver health on performance, and several other psychological studies.
Creativity can benefit from a tenacious specification of the outcome!