Network analysis of information flows to integrate in-vehicle information systems

摘要

Many in-vehicle information systems (IVIS) are developed without consideration of how components need to be integrated. This can increase the cognitive load, errors and annoyance for drivers. This paper presents a taxonomy of IVIS functions and describes the information flows associated with these functions to show how a network analysis can guide integration. This analytic technique uses elements of graph theory to identify central functions and groups of functions that should be considered in system design. The analysis highlights potential dangers of failing to design integrated systems and the benefits of effective integration. Specifically, the analysis of information flows identifies highly central functions and groups of functions that are not obvious from the more traditional intuitive analysis of graphical representations.