Optimizing Flashing Frequencies for Incandescent Warning Lights: A Study on Tempo's Impact on Attention and Discomfort

摘要

有必要提醒來往人車注意的場所，例如事故現場，很可能要有具有高警示力的燈組裝置。然而現場往往交通堵塞，經過的人車可能較長時間暴露在該光源刺激下。本研究提出了白熾燈的最佳閃爍速度，可以最大限度地提高警覺性，同時最大限度地減少長時間的不適。該拍速除了具有高警示力之外，長時間閃爍下可能壓迫感更小。以白熾光為例，實驗測試結果表明，在40-140次/分之間的閃爍速度，無論是手填10分量表、還是單電極腦波儀Neurosky MindWave eSense的數值，120次/分的都表現出高提醒度，與相對較低的壓力。燈閃刺激在120 次/分時的腦波放鬆度平均值是在110-140次/分區之間最高的，也是在 90 次/分以上具有最小標準差的一個。與之前關於聲音的節拍研究一致，由於人類具有的共振節拍特性，120次/分也可能是閃光刺激的首選頻率。因此，研究建議長期連續使用白熾警示燈的閃爍速度為 120 BPM，以實現警覺性和舒適性的最佳平衡。本研究的結論是，刺激頻率120 次/分是適合白熾光長時間持續閃爍的刺激拍速。

關鍵詞: 最佳閃爍速度、白熾警示燈、120次/分、NeuroSky MindWave eSense、首選頻率、警覺與舒適平衡

Abstract

In environments requiring heightened awareness, such as accident scenes, warning lights are essential for alerting pedestrians and vehicles. However, traffic congestion frequently occurs at accident sites, and prolonged exposure to high-intensity flashing lights can also cause discomfort for nearby individuals. This research investigates the optimal flashing tempo for incandescent lights that maximizes alertness while minimizing discomfort over extended periods. Experimental analysis identified a flashing speed range of 40-140 Beats Per Minute (BPM), with a tempo of 120 BPM found to balance effectively between high alertness levels and reduced perceived stress. This balance was evidenced by both subjective assessments on a 10-point scale and objective measurements using the eSense of a Neurosky MindWave single-electrode electroencephalogram to gauge brainwave relaxation responses during exposure to varying flash tempos. Notably, the 120 BPM tempo exhibited the most favorable relaxation metrics within the 110-140 BPM range, alongside the smallest standard deviation in stress levels for tempos above 90 BPM. These findings align with previous research on the impact of tempo in auditory stimuli, suggesting a natural resonance with the 120 BPM frequency that may enhance the efficacy of visual warnings. Consequently, the study recommends a flashing tempo of 120 BPM for long-term continuous use of incandescent warning lights, offering an optimal balance of vigilance and comfort. This tempo could potentially improve safety measures in high-risk areas without contributing to stress or discomfort.