Project Abstract

Navigation is a universal and critical task, particularly in the 21st century, with most of the world needing to find their way in an environment at some point. This project investigates the existing gap between the use of vibration in current cycling tools and its potential integration into navigation devices for cyclists. Employing iterative design methodologies, the study aims to uncover the underlying factors contributing to this disparity. Through these design iterations and evaluation studies to solicit feedback, the project seeks to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with incorporating vibration into navigation aids and suggest why vibration is seldom used amongst existing cycling technologies. Two prototypes were made within this iterative design process to isolate any issues with implementation and get to the core of the efficacy of the concept. The first was custom-made from electronic components and the second used two off-the-shelf smartphones. Insights gleaned from this study have the potential to inform the development of more effective navigation solutions for cyclists and other road users, while also highlighting the practical considerations and hurdles that must be addressed in integrating vibration technology into this context. The study had participants go around a test track and use the device to find their way around it. After running the study, a wealth of information was obtained, including issues with conflicting vibration from the road and limitations with certain form factors. However, certain findings such as the preferred use of smartphones for implementing such a system and the potential of integrating it with smartwatches, voice assistants and other existing technology were found to have been both suggested and received positively at both stages of evaluation, hinting that integration with existing technology is a critical feature in the adoption of this kind of system.

Keywords: Human-Computer Interaction, Embedded Systems, User Experience

 Conference Details

Session: Poster Session B at Poster Stand 87

Location: Sir Stanley Clarke Auditorium at Wednesday 8th 09:00 – 12:30

Markers: Muneeb Ahmad, Troy Astarte

Course: BSc Computer Science, 3rd Year

Future Plans: I’m looking for work