Switching to comfort mode

Switches, knobs and touch panels evolve to reduce operator fatigue.

Programmability has become a central design element for engineers tasked with making work environments more comfortable for commercial-vehicle operators. Touchscreens continue to handle more functions, while switches, knobs and joysticks are all becoming more versatile as embedded electronics turn them into multi-function controls.

There's a shortage of drivers in trucking and operators in off-highway, prompting a major focus on making sure that workers in both fields stay on the job. A range of control technologies play a major role in the effort to improve comfort for those who spend long hours working in cabs.