Designing for Compliance
Masters Thesis dissertation project developed in-collaboration with Aptiv LLC
Despite advances in vehicle sensor technology, the automotive industry has yet to fully exploit real-time, fused sensor data for enhancing in-vehicle user experiences. Our thesis project explores how to leverage these sensor data streams to improve safety and comfort for drivers and passengers. As vehicles become more sophisticated and sensor-rich, addressing this challenge is crucial for creating user-centric, seamless, and intuitive automotive experiences.
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Problem Statement
The automotive industry has seen major advancements in vehicle sensor technology, yet the use of real-time, fused sensor data to enhance in-vehicle user experiences remains underexplored. The problem addressed in this thesis is how to leverage these vast streams of sensor data to improve both safety and comfort for drivers and passengers. This challenge is critical in the context of UX design for automobiles, as vehicles increasingly become sophisticated, sensor-rich environments that demand user-centric approaches to ensure a seamless, safe, and intuitive experience.ntent
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Research Process
User Interviews
We conducted interviews with drivers and automotive experts to uncover pain points in existing in-vehicle systems. Key insights from these conversations included the need for intuitive interfaces that minimize cognitive load and increase driver comfort. Data Analysis & Conclusion: The combined research identified gaps across these systems, such as the underutilization of sensor data for proactive user assistance, which became focal points for our design solutions. Our analysis revealed that while these interfaces have made significant strides in usability and feature integration, there's still room for improvement in leveraging real-time sensor data to enhance the user experience.
Literature Review
Our research explored existing academic and industry literature on multimodal interaction, sensor fusion, and automotive UX. We also conducted an in-depth analysis of leading infotainment systems, including Mercedes' MBUX, BMW's iDrive, Audi's MMI, Volkswagen's MIB, and the Android Automotive interface developed by Aptiv for Polestar and Volvo. This comprehensive review helped shape our understanding of current capabilities and informed our design approach.
Research Question 01
How can designers make better use of vehicle sensor data, to create more optimised vehicular user experiences?
Research Question 02
How can designers estimate the value-added, resulting from UX designs relying on vehicle sensor data, to the vehicular user experience?
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Design Process
Designs that encalm & inform meet two human needs not usually met together. Information technology is more often the enemy of calm.
The applications on our smartphones bombard us frenetically with information, seeking our attention.
The very technology that was intended to serve us, has enslaved us instead.
Literature Review
Our research explored existing academic and industry literature on multimodal interaction, sensor fusion, and automotive UX. We also conducted an in-depth analysis of leading infotainment systems, including Mercedes' MBUX, BMW's iDrive, Audi's MMI, Volkswagen's MIB, and the Android Automotive interface developed by Aptiv for Polestar and Volvo. This comprehensive review helped shape our understanding of current capabilities and informed our design approach.
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Imagery
Designs that encalm & inform meet two human needs not usually met together. Information technology is more often the enemy of calm.
The applications on our smartphones bombard us frenetically with information, seeking our attention.
The very technology that was intended to serve us, has enslaved us instead.
Can we really look to technology itself for a solution?
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Imagery
The use of sleek and contemporary design elements in the logo and promotional materials reflects Nebul's dedication to staying at the forefront of the industry. Incorporating architectural symbols and urban landscapes in the imagery reinforces the firm's expertise in shaping the future of cityscapes.
Incorporating these visual elements cohesively throughout Nebul's branding creates a powerful and memorable image that resonates with clients, partners, and the wider community. The imagery becomes a visual representation of Nebul's mission to "build the future today," capturing the essence of innovation, sustainability, and expertise that defines the firm.
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Result
By incorporating a branding strategy centered around modernity, sustainability, and forward-thinking, Nebul successfully transformed its image into a recognized and respected force in the architectural and urban planning industry. The sleek and contemporary design elements, coupled with visuals of eco-friendly projects and cutting-edge technology, positioned Nebul as a leader in shaping the future of urban landscapes.