Digital, analogue, or redundant speedometers for truck driving: Impact on visual distraction, efficiency and usability

Appl Ergon. 2017 Nov:65:12-22. doi: 10.1016/j.apergo.2017.05.013. Epub 2017 Jun 5.

Abstract

Existing literature does not draw conclusions as to which speedometer type is better for truck driving. A digital speedometer would be more beneficial when obtaining absolute and relative readings, while an analogue speedometer would be more efficient and less distracting when detecting dynamic speed changes. Redundant speedometers, which simultaneously present digital and analogue speedometers, appear increasingly in vehicles, but no information is available on their ergonomic qualities. This study compared three speedometers: digital speedometers, analogue speedometers, and redundant speedometers. This study compared the efficiency, usability and visual distraction measures for all three types of speedometers in a simulated truck driving setting. The task-dependant results were confirmed for the digital and analogue speedometer. The redundant speedometer combined the benefits of each type presented separately, which highlights interesting theoretical and applied implications.

Keywords: Redundant displays; Speedometer design; Truck interface.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Automobile Driving*
  • Computer Simulation
  • Data Display*
  • Equipment Design
  • Ergonomics
  • Eye Movements
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Motor Vehicles*
  • Safety*
  • Task Performance and Analysis
  • Time Factors
  • Visual Perception