Automakers see possibilities, limits for gesture controls

Recent concepts have shown the possibilities of gesture for controlling infotainment functions but the need for industry standards and control simplification complicate development.

Volkswagen made its first-ever appearance at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, in January 2015. In a display of Vegas-style razzle-dazzle, the German automaker unveiled the Golf R Touch concept vehicle, demonstrating how contactless intricate gestures can control infotainment and cabin features.

VW used the term “switchless” to refer to the concept car. The vehicle confirmed the technical feasibility of drivers, for example, controlling music volume by pointing one finger toward a touchscreen-several inches away from the glass-and sliding it left or right. Then, with similar movements of two fingers, the voice navigation got louder, and with three fingers phone volume was adjusted. Swipe your entire hand to the right to advance to the next song, or back to the left for the previous tune. Similar gestures allow contactless operation of the sunroof, lighting, and mirrors-turning the air space in front of the center console into a field for gesticulation.