This project is suitable for one MSc thesis student.

The work will target perception and decision making in Camera Monitor Systems (CMS) or digital rear-view mirrors involving behavioural and perceptual, as well as physical measurements. For the CMS an important question is how depth perception, distance judgement and obstacle avoidance are affected by physical parameters, since the resulting image can be perceived as if located at a different distance than it would be in a common, traditional mirror. Crucial is the impact on perception, potentially leading to erroneous, and possibly fatal, decisions.

Vehicle manufacturers have started to introduce CMS as a replacement of the traditional rear-view mirrors. This technology is based on displays connected to cameras on the outside of the vehicle. One potential advantage is that the driver might see past dead angles (both when driving on the highway and when reversing). CMSs can also be provided with graphics or Augmented Reality (AR) information. It is also possible to use external cameras to create a synthetic bird's eye view above the vehicle when reversing or crawling. Disadvantages of digital rear-view mirrors are delays in the system, and reduced depth information. Also, the camera together with the screen has lower dynamics than the eye, and the superimposed information can overload the driver's perception and cognitive abilities.

The master thesis project will be carried out within an ongoing research project, SCREENS II, involving the partners: RISE, Scania, SmartEye, Volvo Cars and Volvo Trucks. The goals are to develop methods, tools and guidelines as well as knowledge and understanding to support the Swedish automotive industry in creating road-safe, ergonomic, and healthy digital information environments.

The study involving test subjects consists of the following main parts:

• Literature study
• Identification of research questions
• Planning the experiment
• Setting up the experiment
• Pilot testing and running the experiment
• Analysis of results
• Development of design guidelines
• Report writing and oral presentation

Required skills:

• Driving license

Suggested skills:

• Some experience and interest in user testing
• Interest in optics and visual perception
• Programming

Terms
Suggested time period and scope: Spring 2025, 30 credits (hp).

Location: RISE in Kista, Stockholm.

Project and remuneration: The thesis projects will be carried out at RISE’s premises in Kista. A monetary remuneration of 39 990 SEK will be paid at completion of the work.

Welcome with your application!
For applying, please send CV, a brief statement explaining why you are interested in the thesis project (maximum 500 words), grade transcript and a text/report that you value. Last day of application: January 20, 2026.

For more information contact:

• Kjell Brunnström, PhD
• Senior Scientist, Research Leader Perceptual Media Quality.
• kjell.brunnstrom@ri.se
• +46 708419105