Facilitating engaging and seamless driving using AR navigation
Overview
Navigating through urban roads in the US can be quite daunting, especially intricate network of roads poses numerous challenges for drivers. Existing navigation apps fall short of delivering clear and accurate guidance.
This project examines the difficulties individuals encounter while driving and explored ways to minimize their cognitive load using AR (Augmented Reality), thereby enhancing their driving experience.
How might we design a driving experience that enhances driver attention, decision-making capabilities, and overall road safety, while ensuring that users remain engaged without experiencing cognitive overload?
Problem Statement
Project
Goals
Improve driver attention
Increase engagement with the road
Reduce mental effort
Research Methods
1. Literature Review
20
Research papers and articles
The research aimed to understand how AR technology affects drivers' cognitive load and psychological stress during navigation. Additionally, we examined visual distraction and how AR affects overall driver performance, with particular attention to its potential to enhance performance in monotonous or repetitive driving scenarios.
Key Findings
01.
Augmented Reality (AR) information imposes a lower cognitive burden on drivers compared to heads-up displays (HUD).
02.
Augmented Reality PNDs (Personal Navigation Device) with Head-Up Displays (AR-PNDs) are the best for visual attention and user acceptability.
03.
Timing of visual information is critical. Turn-by-turn information (TBT) helps, but in intersections, it should be shown earlier.
04.
As AR graphics become more integrated, it becomes challenging to distinguish between the real world and the augmented reality environment, leading to cognitive tunneling and inattentional blindness.
2. Benchmarking
Step 1
Explored existing and futuristic technologies and concepts
Step 2
Studied their features and
discovered their pros and cons
Step 3
Studied the maturity levels and the technologies used
4. Contextual Inquiry
2
Rides with friends
1
Uber ride
We observed and interacted with drivers in their natural environment to understand their behaviors, needs, and challenges
Findings:
This is the space to introduce the Services section. Briefly describe the types of services offered and highlight any special benefits or features.
01
This is the space to introduce the Services section. Briefly describe the types of services offered and highlight any special benefits or features.
02
This is the space to introduce the Services section. Briefly describe the types of services offered and highlight any special benefits or features.
03
This is the space to introduce the Services section. Briefly describe the types of services offered and highlight any special benefits or features.
04
This is the space to introduce the Services section. Briefly describe the types of services offered and highlight any special benefits or features.
05
This is the space to introduce the Services section. Briefly describe the types of services offered and highlight any special benefits or features.
06
Findings
Research and discovery
Competitor analysis
User Flows
Understanding the user flows and simplifying them
The user flows shown below are the simplified ones used to build the new prototypes
Prototypes
Low-fidelity
After 100s of iterations...
High-fidelity
The Design System
Lessons learned
-
User-Centric Approach: Prioritize user experience by understanding the needs of Show Creators, Artists, and Fans through research and feedback, ensuring the redesign meets their specific requirements.
-
Seamless Integration: Ensure smooth navigation and functionality between Youbloom's website and Youbloom Connect, enhancing usability for all stakeholders and facilitating meaningful connections within the music community.
-
Continuous Improvement: Embrace an iterative approach post-launch, actively seeking user feedback to identify areas for enhancement and adapt the platform to evolving user needs and market dynamics over time.
3. Focus Group Interviews
3
Focus Group Interviews
12
Participants
Conducted focus group interviews with individuals who possess driving experience in the United States.
Topics covered:
-
Demographics
-
Current driving experiences
-
Traditional navigation app usage
Findings:
