Vehicle Operating Device Distraction Management via Interface Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multifunctional operating devices in vehicles, particularly those with touch-sensitive screens, can distract drivers due to complex interfaces, especially when used with applications not optimized for vehicle use, potentially compromising driving safety.
Innovation Solution
A method that assesses the degree of distraction caused by an application based on user-interface elements and driving situations, allowing for flexible decision-making on the display of applications on the screen, including considerations of screen size, user-interface complexity, and driver attention through sensor data, to minimize driver distraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a touch-sensitive screen with complex operator interface is used to display multiple applications, then the functionality and versatility of the operating device is improved, but the driver's attention is distracted and driving safety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating the display content based on the user's role (driver vs. passenger). The system analyzes the operator interface to identify complex elements and selectively restricts or modifies their display when the operator is detected to be the driver, while allowing full functionality when the operator is a passenger. This localized adjustment of interface complexity resolves the contradiction between providing versatile functionality and preventing driver distraction.
2Adaptability or versatility
If applications from mobile telephones are displayed on the multifunctional operating device, then the adaptability of the system is improved, but the complexity of the operator interface increases leading to higher distraction risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary analysis mechanism that sits between the application source (mobile telephone) and the display output. This intermediary analyzes the operator interface of incoming applications, identifies complex elements, and applies restriction rules based on operator detection. The intermediary translates between the original application interface and a modified version suitable for vehicle use, maintaining application compatibility while reducing distraction risk.
3Ease of operation
If comprehensive operator interfaces with multiple user-interface elements are displayed, then the ease of operation for complex functions is improved, but the time required to operate the device increases and driver attention is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the extraction principle by identifying and removing complex user-interface elements from the display when the operator is the driver. The system analyzes the operator interface, extracts problematic elements (such as small buttons, dense menus, or complex controls), and either omits them or replaces them with simplified alternatives. This extraction maintains essential functionality while reducing the time and attention required for operation.
Data Source
AI summary
In a method and devices, data for the display of an application on a screen is provided. In addition, information with regard to a degree of distraction of the application, e.g., information regarding user-interface elements, and/or information regarding a degree of distraction of a driver of a vehicle (110) is provided. As a function of this information and a driving situation of the vehicle, it is decided whether the application will be displayed on the screen.