Car computing device analysis

Unique solutions are required to match computer devices to human needs for a safer, more comfortable driving environment.

Traditional driver information systems (DIS) make use of digital processing to provide data for such functions as navigation, radio, telephone, and television. The latest DISs, called car computing devices (CCD), add features including office, e-mail, or Internet capabilities. These additional functions have created a need for engineers to develop new user interface concepts. Both analysis and experimentation are required to provide a better understanding of human machine interface (HMI) requirements for DISs, according to Peter Roessger of Computer Aided Animation GmbH (CAA).

Because driving is the main task in a vehicle, only limited mental and visual capacities are available for using CCDs. The high visual load while driving and the need to control the car manually leave little spare capacity for communicating with a CCD-and input devices, screen layouts, and use philosophies differ between manufacturers. Technological developments have occurred so rapidly that little ergonomics experience has been obtained. Another consideration for automotive computing is the limited interior space for input and output devices, which has led to smaller output devices, monochromatic LED displays, or screens of up to only 7 in. Passenger information systems such as the one shown in Figure 1 present less of a challenge from the human factors aspect because the key focus of CCD research is on office and Internet applications.