How can you design an autonomous vehicle's interface to give real-time feedback?

1 Identify the feedback needs

The first step is to identify what kind of feedback the passengers need to feel informed and in control of their journey. For example, you may want to provide feedback on the AV's status, intentions, actions, and surroundings. You may also want to allow the passengers to communicate with the AV, such as requesting a route change, adjusting the speed, or taking over the driving. Depending on the level of automation, the feedback needs may vary.

2 Choose the feedback modalities

The next step is to choose the appropriate modalities for delivering the feedback. You can use visual, auditory, tactile, or multimodal feedback, depending on the context and the message. For example, you can use a dashboard display, a head-up display, or a projection system to show visual feedback. You can use a speaker, a headset, or a voice assistant to provide auditory feedback. You can use a seat belt, a steering wheel, or a vibration device to deliver tactile feedback. You can also combine different modalities to enhance the feedback effectiveness and reduce the cognitive load.

3 Design the feedback content

The third step is to design the content of the feedback, such as the symbols, icons, colors, sounds, words, or gestures. You need to make sure that the feedback is clear, consistent, and relevant to the passengers. You also need to consider the cultural and personal preferences of the passengers, as well as the ethical and legal implications of the feedback. For example, you may want to use familiar and intuitive symbols, such as traffic signs, arrows, or emojis. You may also want to use natural and polite language, such as "Please fasten your seat belt" or "Thank you for choosing AV".

4 Test the feedback design

The final step is to test the feedback design with real users and evaluate its impact on their experience. You need to measure how the feedback affects the passengers' perception, behavior, emotion, and satisfaction. You also need to identify any problems or issues with the feedback design and make improvements accordingly. For example, you can use methods such as surveys, interviews, observations, or simulations to collect user feedback. You can also use metrics such as usability, trust, comfort, or engagement to assess the feedback performance.

By following these steps, you can design an AV's interface that gives real-time feedback to the passengers and enhances their experience. Remember that feedback is not only a way to inform the passengers, but also a way to build a relationship with them and make them feel valued and respected.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?