Ubiquitous computing within cars: designing controls for non-visual use

Increasingly, computing and communications-based technologies are being implemented within cars. There is a need for fundamental research and development to ensure that the control interfaces for future cars require minimal visual demands. The needs, abilities and preferences of drivers (in particular older drivers) are clearly a prime focus, as part of a user-centred design approach. In addition, it is argued that much can be learnt from the experience and strategies adopted by people who are blind or have low vision (a non-user group). The paper sets out a number of research questions regarding the inclusion of such people in the design process of future automobiles. ( 2001 Academic Press