Main Content
Features
Can we beat driver distraction?
May 2001
In November 1999, America's top traffic safety authority voiced concern about the potential for driver distractions caused by the increasing number of mobile information systems being designed for in-vehicle use. The authority also noted that efforts to turn vehicles into "mobile offices" were "allowing motorists to spend time more productively when caught in traffic jams."
Since then, the number and sophistication of in-vehicle gadgets has risen considerably and a new survey of automotive engineers has brought the prediction that at least in the US, 25% of vehicles will be fitted with telematics within 3-8 years. While the gadgets may still cause a distraction, manufacturers are working on a variety of "hands-free" systems - and capitalising on the concept of making driving time "more productive".
One example the Delphi Automotive Systems is developing is what it calls "products and human-machine interface systems that help drivers keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road."
According to Delphi's chairman, Mr J. T. Battenberg III: "People have expressed a desire to be more productive while commuting, and the vehicle is awash in a sea of portable electronic devices.
"At Delphi, we are developing mobile multimedia technologies that will help drivers stay more focused and productive."
In fact the new mobile technology looks set to change the whole idea of "going for a drive." Delphi for example is developing what it calls the "Communiport Mobile Productivity Center" which will not only allow drivers to make hands-free phone calls by voice command; but provide "smart" receivers that provide turn-by-turn navigation assistance.
The same "productivity centre" will also integrate phone, email and Internet access, all through voice-to-text and text-to-speech software.
According to Delphi, electronics designers are now concentrating on "the two central elements of driver focus - biomechanical interface and cognitive focus." "The biomechanical element considers how the driver physically interacts with the vehicle," it says. "The cognitive element relates to reducing the driver's workload management to help keep focus."
The scan also showed:
Virtual adviser
The US-based in-vehicle information service provider, OnStar, takes the theme of "drive time productivity" further. It says American motorists now spend half a billion hours in their cars each week and they could spend it "a little more productively." OnStar suggestion is personalised financial information broadcast to the car through OnStar's "Virtual Adviser". According to the company, it brings "hands-free, voice-activated Web-based information into your vehicle. While you're sitting in traffic, travelling to that next meeting, or just running errands, you can manage your finances without taking your hands off the steering wheel."
Personal safeguard
It is no good driving around in your new mobile office if you don't feel safe - which is where the "Personal Safeguard Companion" comes in. The product, which has just gone on sale in America's Counter Spy Shops, keeps track of your vehicle using a GPS satellite and in any emergency will provide roadside assistance. Special alert options will also let you use the device as an alarm clock or reminder to take medication. "Knowing one is connected to a 911-trained emergency response command centre 24 hours a day provides one with peace of mind," says company vice president, Stuart Fields.
Telematics
Similar telematic systems are also being introduced in Europe but the marketing emphasis seems to be more about making travel "safer and more pleasurable" rather than "productive." One of the latest examples is a partnership between Ford and Vodafone to provide voice-driven telematic safety, security and information services to drivers across Europe. According to Ford's CEO for Europe, David Thursfield: "We anticipate that within five years nearly all new Ford vehicles will be fitted with some type of telematics system."
Garage mechanics
Scientists in Germany and the US are developing a "speech-controlled wearable computer" for garage mechanics. The idea is to eliminate the paperwork involved in car maintenance while at the same time providing the mechanic with instant access to necessary data. The company behind the concept, the Robert Bosch Corporation, sees applications for the device in all areas of technical inspections.
