Elementz HMI (User Research)
Revolutionizing Driving Experience:
User-Centered Design Solutions
Our Applications
Vehicle V7
Speaker S7
Vision OS
Flow index
AI and driving assistant integration in the product or service
01
Introduction to the project and user research objectives
The overall objective of the user research is to gather insights and feedback from users that can inform and guide the design and development process, with the goal of creating user-centric and innovative solutions. Through the research, we aim to identify user pain points, challenges, and preferences in every aspect of the holistic design intersection, including product design, cockpit and dashboard design ergonomics, driving assistance, and more. By incorporating user feedback into the design process, this project hopes to create products that not only meet but exceed user expectations and improve their overall driving experience.
02
User persona(s) and their problems/challenges/pain points
This work identifies the primary user persona as a driver who faces various challenges and pain points while driving. Driving behavior includes planning, strategy, and manipulating three levels of task levels and 1600 independent tasks. The driver is often under too much stress and has too little time to complete these tasks. Additionally, driving mostly has a reactionary process that leads to distraction, panic states, and stressful situations. The current UI-UX and interactive cabin patterns do not effectively solve these problems.
In terms of specific pain points, the driver display often bombards the driver with unuseful information, and users often have to make dozens of taps to do what they want to do. Furthermore, current HMI designs do not offer personalization and only offer customization, which is not sufficient for meeting the individual needs and preferences of each driver.
Through user research, this work aims to shed light on these pain points and challenges and develop solutions that address them. The objective is to create an experience that is intuitive, personalized and enhances the driver's overall driving experience.
03
Methodology and approach for primary user research
For our primary user research, I was utilizing a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods. Qualitative methods was included in-depth interviews and user observations, while quantitative methods was included surveys and data analysis.
We were targeting a diverse range of users to ensure that we capture a variety of perspectives and experiences.
Our approach will be user-centric, focusing on the needs and pain points of the drivers to inform the design decisions. We will also be employing an iterative process, continuously testing and refining our designs based on user feedback.
04
Findings from primary user research paint points
Based on the primary user research, I have found that driving often involves a reactionary process that can lead to distractions, panic states, and stressful situations for the driver.
Considering the principles and roles of cockpit, handset, and HMI design in addressing these issues is important.
I have also noticed that regular interfaces, cabin designs, and user experience norms may not be sufficient for providing a satisfactory driving experience.
To enhance the driver's disposition of digital takeovers, it is highly important to build a consistent driving experience.
Additionally, the information architecture of HMI needs to increase the discoverability and navigation experience to the top level. To improve visibility, it is necessary to focus on increasing the up-vision and down-vision visibility.
Finally, the design should consider the most ergonomic reach envelope and accessibility surface.
05
Solutions to address user pain points and challenges
To address the problem of driving being a reactionary process that leads to distraction and stress, I have designed the interface based on military standards. The touch screen is positioned so that the user can touch it with their full arm hanging in the air, which is more ergonomic than using a smartphone. This improves the discoverability and navigation experience for the user, ensuring that the interface is intuitive and easy to use.
The components of the features have been fine-tuned using the Aesthetic-Usability effect. This means that we have minimized the interaction and learning costs while driving, making it easier and faster for the user to access the information they need.
I have rearranged the information levels based on information structure and function to optimize the system design. This makes it easier for the user to find the information they need, without having to go through multiple screens or menus.
I have also designed the interface with ergonomics in mind, bringing together speed, usability, and no-look control with a touch-enabled click pad. This ensures that the area is easily reachable, and the user can control it without having to look at it.
Finally, I have designed the physical buttons and Prohandset to be perfect for use without looking at them. This ensures that the user can control the interface without being distracted from the road.
06
Design roadmap and interactive patterns based on user research insights
07
Information architecture of the product or service
06
Statement of cockpit and dashboard design ergonomics
Cockpit and dashboard design ergonomics are crucial in ensuring users a comfortable and safe driving experience.
My design philosophy on this work aims to create an optimal layout and user interface for the cockpit and dashboard, taking into consideration the needs and limitations of the driver.
Some key considerations I have incorporated into my design include:
A user-friendly interface with a clear, concise information display
A focus on minimizing distraction and cognitive load for the driver intuitive physical controls and buttons for frequently used functions
Ergonomic design to maximize reach and accessibility of controls while minimizing strain on the driver's body.
07
Overhauling Driver Display, Wing Display, and prohandset based on user needs
Based on our user research findings and analysis, I have identified several areas for improvement in the design of the Driver Display, Wing Display, and Prohandset. The following are some of the changes we plan to make:
Driver Display: I will overhaul the design of the Driver Display to reduce information overload and improve the user's ability to quickly and easily find the information they need. We will achieve this by using a more streamlined information architecture and reorganizing the display to prioritize the most important information. I will also redesign the visual language to make it more intuitive and easier to read at a glance.
Wing Display: The Wing Display was redesigned to provide more context-specific information and reduce distraction.
08
General principles of interactive experience design
Minimize distractions: The interface should be designed to minimize distractions and reduce cognitive load. Unnecessary information or alerts should be eliminated, and the most critical information should be displayed prominently.
Personalization: Drivers have unique preferences and driving habits. The interface should allow drivers to customize the layout, features, and settings to match their preferences and needs.
Intuitiveness: The interface should be intuitive and easy to use. Drivers should be able to navigate the interface without requiring extensive training or attention.
Accessibility: The interface should be accessible to all drivers, including those with disabilities. The design should incorporate accessibility features such as voice control, haptic feedback, and large buttons.
Ergonomics: The interface should be designed to minimize physical strain and discomfort for the driver. The placement of controls, the size and shape of buttons, and the angle of the display should be optimized for comfortable use.
Integration: The interface should be integrated with other systems and devices in the car, such as the audio system, climate control, and navigation. This will help drivers to perform tasks more efficiently and safely.
11
The redesigned cockpit, dashboard, and prohandset significantly improved the user experience and reduced stress levels while driving.
Users appreciated the intuitive and user-friendly interfaces, which made it easy to perform tasks without taking their eyes off the road.
The personalized and customizable features allowed users to tailor the driving experience to their specific needs and preferences.
The AI and driving assistant features were well-received, providing users with real-time feedback and assistance during their driving experience.
The ergonomic design of the cockpit and dashboard provided users with maximum comfort and convenience, reducing the risk of distractions and improving the overall driving experience.
The information architecture was optimized to enhance discoverability and navigation, allowing users to quickly access the information they needed without having to search through multiple menus.
The increased visibility provided by the overhauled displays and prohandset allowed for safer driving, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall safety on the road.
Overall, the user testing and feedback indicated that the redesign of the cockpit, dashboard, and prohandset significantly improved the user experience, making driving more intuitive, personalized, and safe.
