Usability Assessment of Steering Wheel Control Interfaces in Motorsport

Abstract

In order to assess the usability of steering wheel control interfaces in motorsport, it is necessary to employ a set of appropriate methods. The method selection process first involves identifying the relevant motorsport-based usability criteria. The unique factors associated with context of use in motorsport are then defined. These are employed to synthesize a set of key performance indicators (KPIs) that require specific analysis. The first KPI relates to error rates; these should be minimized, particularly under high cognitive load on the primary. The second KPI involves task times; these should be minimized not just to reduce distraction, but also to improve competitive performance. The third KPI states that usability should be optimized to minimize visual distraction. The fourth KPI advocates the minimizing of interface task load to reduce the effect on the primary task. The final KPI states that interface functionality should be easy to learn and recall. The KPIs provide clear goals to guide the identification of the most appropriate methods for each aspect of usability. Methods categories are devised and sets of appropriate methods selected based on the KPIs. These then combine into a toolset with an associated application process with the overall goal of providing a means by which motorsport interfaces may be both analysed and improved.