Characteristics of Voice-Based Interfaces for In-Vehicle Systems and Their Effects on Driving Performance

摘要

Automakers and telematics developers are using voice interfaces to help solve potential distraction problems, thus allowing drivers to perform a variety of secondary tasks while driving. However, the question remains as to whether voice interfaces, which eliminate the need to look at displays and to manipulate controls, can help enough to allow safe operation of in-vehicle technologies or whether the remaining cognitive distraction will significantly degrade driving performance. This question was addressed in a previous test track study conducted at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations (NHTSA) Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC). The study compared driving performance decrements associated with secondary tasks that could be performed using both visual/manual and voice interfaces. The primary (driving) task combined car following and visual target detection. Secondary tasks involved a sequence of interactions with an in-vehicle computer and were representative of current in-vehicle technologies.