Human Machine Interface technologies in automotive systems are taking a giant leap forward with integrated multi-modal, multi-touch and multi-zone systems. This evolution enables the HMI system to provide state-of-the-art graphics effects, speech assistance, touch and gesture enabled interfaces, augmented reality, web and mobile integration alongside other advanced concepts, providing excellent user experience, least driver distraction and ease of use.
Modern premium car manufacturers are introducing such user experience in their in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) systems to make their IVI on par with the trend setting mobile smart phone user experience. Apart from the technologies involved in multimodal behaviour, the HMI system includes frameworks, standards and sub systems that enable appreciable amount of autonomy while interfacing with the underlying IVI sub system layers.
This paper discusses the technologies, practices and implementations in the current and upcoming industry trends. We present some of our own work on HMI architecture and customizable HMI Design Tool Framework. We hope this would help the IVI community, especially in Tier 1 and Tier 2, to identify technologies where they may focus and position in the infotainment HMI technology arena.