This study aimed to assess the potential of driver distraction, task performance, orientation of attention, and perceived workload in a multitasking situation involving interaction with touchscreen interface, compared to physical interface. Authors conducted a real-driving experiment focusing on qualities of synthetic feedback produced from the interfaces mounted on the center console, when a driver engages in an input task with the interfaces while maintaining visual attention and awareness on the road and the roadside. Participants drove a vehicle along a straight double-lane route prescribed on the closed-course track in Texas A&M University—Riverside Campus. The results revealed that the lack of both auditory and vibro-tactile feedback in touchscreen interaction led to significant degradation in input task performance, compared to a natural haptic feedback from the physical interface. The insufficiency also significantly deteriorated drivers’ ability in detecting and promptly responding to objects designed to suddenly appear on the roadside, as opposed to the physical interface or touchscreen interface with synthetic feedback. Perceived workload appeared to be not significantly affected by the difference in the interface characteristics. The findings emphasized the impact of synthetic feedback on multitasking performance as previous studies did, and highlighted its potential on regulating visual attention resource on which awareness is based. Designers of user interface or policy makers concerning with driving safety will benefit from the findings. (Author/publisher)
Abstract