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| This photo shows the Siemens VDO Automotive concept cockpit. Note the aircraft-style steering wheel that has the two visible thumb roller buttons on it, instead of an array of controls. Then, on a stalk, there is the tactile feedback knob that would fit on a center console. (Photo: Siemens VDO) |
The German-based Siemens VDO showed off its concept cockpit design at the Ritz-Carleton, which has some of the characteristics of the cockpits they are supplying to Volkswagen for its $50,000+ Phaeton "super sedan."
Siemens' concept cockpit has the classic analog speedometer mounted on the steering column, with a digital display behind it. All main functions to access information are controlled directly from the steering wheel, which is U-shaped, like an airplane's steering wheel, by two thumb-level roller switches.
Drivers can run through the onboard computer menus by using a knob located on the center console. The knob offers the driver with "tactile feedback," such as "clicks," so the driver can learn how to access the infotainment functions without looking down, Jeffrey said.
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| The Mazda Washu's steering wheel folds completely into the dash when not in use. (Photo: Mazda) |
The concept cockpit design also relocated the turn signals and hazard light switches to so-called "finger trays" on the back of the steering wheel. And, the instrument "stalks" for windshield wiper and headlight controls are also eliminated--a rain sensor activates the windshield wipers while the lighting controls are moved to the driver-side door.
Also speaking on the subject of human-machine interfaces at the cockpit module forum were Samantha Hench, representing the researchers at the National Advanced Driving Simulator (NADS) at the University of Iowa, and Stephen N. Rohr, chief engineer, Occupant Safety for Delphi Corp. in Troy, Mich.
The driving simulator at the University of Iowa is run in conjunction with the U.S. National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is designed to study the human factors that go into operating vehicle controls, reducing driver fatigue and stress, while helping to create a vehicle cockpit that increases safety, comfort and quality of life, Hench said.