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In order to utilize in-vehicle systems efficiently, many vehicles are becoming equipped with integrated controls near the center fascia or the control box. However, the placement of these control systems can cause safety issues and risks due to visual distractions. In this study, we proposed a new integrated touch screen on the steering wheel. For this experiment, a control system was placed on the steering wheel or the center fascia. 15 participants were required to drive while utilizing vent and navigation control tasks regarding four different locations. Three of these locations were based on the steering wheel (center, upper right, lower right) and one location on the center fascia. Afterwards, the task completion time and visual distraction rate of the different locations were measured and compared. The results showed that a touch screen placed on the upper right section of the steering wheel had better performance and lower user discomfort.

In the field of ergonomics, “reach envelopes” are an important factor to design products that are user friendly. Specifically regarding vehicle controls, the TGS lever affects important features such as console layout. The standard guideline of SAE is only based on AM 95th percentile hand reach. However, due to various human characteristics and sitting positions of the driver, this guideline cannot satisfy all drivers. Therefore, the goal of this study is to develop an optimal TGS lever envelop based on human characteristics. First, the discomfort regression function is extracted through a discomfort experiment and statistical analysis. Secondly, a validation experiment was conducted to compare the estimated discomfort regression value and the measured discomfort value. In addition, another validation test was performed to enhance the package usability and RAMSIS applicability.