ADAS & Autonomous Vehicles Special Report - December 2024 - 3

electrocardiography (ECG), once limited to research
labs. These tools are now applied to develop
commercial HMI applications, showcasing their
relevance and utility in improving system design.
Vehicle HMI design must manage the driver's
cognitive load, the mental effort required in working
memory. Human-factors experts aim to design
interfaces that simplify information processing,
reducing cognitive load to prevent confusion and
potential hazards. This involves organizing information
logically, minimizing complexity, and using visual and
interactive hierarchies to highlight essential functions.
For example, non-essential controls like A/C, music
and cruise control are placed on the steering wheel,
allowing drivers to use them without looking away
from the road. New features added to the dashboard
are strategically positioned for safety and ease of use.
iMotions software helps measure how long drivers divert
their gaze from the road to interact with these tools.
Optimizing user-centric design
Ergonomics play a critical role in HMI design,
focusing on the physical interaction between users
and vehicle interiors. This includes the strategic
placement of controls and displays, ensuring they
are easy to operate and provide adequate feedback.
A well-executed ergonomic design enhances user
comfort and efficiency, reducing the likelihood of
strain, errors and accidents. Designing for diverse
users involves complex assessments traditionally
conducted through iterative testing or focus groups.
The core of this approach lies in user-centered
design, which incorporates user feedback from
the initial stages to create intuitive and satisfying
interfaces. This method helps overcome traditional
design challenges like biased or inadequate feedback
by using biosensors that record detailed reactions
in real time. By capturing these instantaneous
responses, developers can discern critical factors
that differentiate effective from ineffective designs,
leading to better, more user-focused systems.
Human factors in HMI design go beyond just
cognitive and physical aspects. They also consider
the emotional and psychological impact of interfaces
on users. This involves understanding how design
elements can affect mood and stress levels and
designing interfaces that create positive emotional
connections with the user. For instance, the use
of color, shape and texture can influence a user's
perception and emotional response to a system.
Tools such as driver facial expression monitoring, ECG
and muscle tension can provide valuable insights
into how drivers and passengers react to the cabin
environment that can be improved once the individual
elements of form and function are identified.
ADAS & AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES SPECIAL REPORT
iMotions integrates emotion analytics into the HMI design process to understand
the emotional and cognitive states of drivers in real time.
Combining emotion analytics and eye-tracking technology with advanced simulator
systems can allow designers to align interfaces more closely with human capabilities.
Safety is paramount in HMI design, where human-factors expertise
is crucial for reducing errors and accidents. This requires designing
interfaces that are straightforward, predictable and forgiving of user
errors. Accessibility is also essential, ensuring interfaces are usable
ADAS & Autonomous Vehicles Special Report - December 2024

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of ADAS & Autonomous Vehicles Special Report - December 2024
