Hands-on-the-wheel: Exploring the design space on the back side of a steering wheel

Abstract

The phrase "eyes on the road and hands on the wheel" has gained acceptance as a maxim for safe driving. Many driver interfaces do not adhere to this simple rule. We explore interaction possibilities which follow this principle by introducing the Back-of-the-Steering-Wheel (BotSW) as an automotive input design space. Since the steering wheel is in the peripheral vision of the driver when looking ahead this space can be seen as an ambient interaction space for the driver. In order to explore this design space, we follow a research through design approach. We present the development of three "explorations" which we consider as evolutionary prototypes built to investigate the BotSW design space: two-sliders, six-buttons, and braille-keyer. Based on our experiences, we discuss the BotSW design space systematically by identifying its interaction design related properties: ring shape, rotating, not visible, supporting bimanual and multi fingers interaction. The intention of our work is to show possibilities of interaction at the back of the steering wheel and inspire designers to envision novel solutions to interact with the car while leaving the hands on the wheel.