Human ergonomics researchers have developed a vehicle navigation system that uses haptic (touch) communication instead of voice that, together with a visual display, shows promise in reducing cognitive overload and enhancing driver comfort.

Automotive navigation systems typically provide distance and directional information of an ensuing maneuver by means of visual indicators and audible instructions. According to researchers Joseph Szczerba and Roy Mathieu from General Motors Global R&D, and Roger Hersberger, from RLH Systems LLC, these systems use the same human perception channels that are required to perform the primary task of driving and thus may increase cognitive workload.

Traditional visual/audible navigational systems may increase cognitive workload. Image credit: Pixabay.In their study, published in the Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 59th Annual Meeting, the researchers removed the lenses in smart glasses, a wearable navigational device, and added vibrating technology to indicate which direction a driver should take and when. The team paired the prototype with a visual display and tested the system on a group of experienced drivers.

Using a driving simulator, each participant drove three city routes using visual-only, visual-plus-auditory and visual-plus-haptic navigational systems. The researchers found that effort, mental workload and overall workload were lowest with the haptic smart-glasses prototype.

Drivers didn’t have to listen for voice instructions or take their eyes off the road to look at a visual display. Drivers also preferred the haptic system because it didn’t distract from conversation or audio entertainment.

The researchers say that the results indicate that smart glasses, paired with a visual display, may be a viable navigational option, giving drivers accurate directional assistance with less effort required of them.