Journal of Korean Tunnelling and Underground Space Association ISSN:2233-8292(Print) 2287-4747(Online) 한국터널지하공간학회 논문집

This study quantitatively analyzed the impact of the visual environment in long road tunnels on driver experience, focusing on three key elements: color, pattern, and lighting. The findings revealed that these elements significantly affect drivers’ psychological states, safety, and overall driving experience. Different issues were identified in urban tunnels and long road tunnels, highlighting the need for customized design solutions tailored to each tunnel’s characteristics. For the color environment, brightness, saturation, color tone, and the continuity between tunnel entrances and interiors emerged as key issues. In pattern design, complexity, harmony with structures, and visual speed perception were important factors, while lighting design revealed dissatisfaction with illumination, color temperature, and lighting arrangement. Based on these findings, the following approaches are proposed for improving the visual environment of long road tunnels: 1) customized design considering the characteristics of each tunnel, 2) an integrated approach to color, pattern, and lighting, 3) human-centered design that takes into account drivers’ psychological and physiological responses, 4) the introduction of dynamic management systems optimized for time of day and traffic volume, and 5) continuous monitoring and improvement. These strategies aim to enhance driver safety and convenience while improving the overall quality of road infrastructure. Future research should focus on empirical studies that apply these proposed improvements in actual tunnel settings, using physiological data collection methods such as heart rate monitoring and eye-tracking to measure the real-time impact of visual pattern changes on drivers’ attention.