The Tactile Advantage: Mitigating Driver Distraction via Physical Feedback in Automotive Touchscreens
Faculty Mentor Information
Dr. Tianfang Han, University of Idaho
Presentation Date
7-15-2026
Abstract
Modern in-vehicle touchscreens increase visual distraction in the already demanding task of driving, compromising road safety. This study investigates the application of electroadhesion-based haptic feedback (surface haptics) – a technology that modulates electrostatic fields to vary surface friction and simulate physical textures on a smooth screen – to reduce visual dependency. Using a high-fidelity driving simulator, participants will perform search-and-select tasks that represent common in-vehicle tasks (e.g., climate or volume adjustments) while maintaining lane position and constant speed in a low-distraction highway environment.
Performance will be evaluated across three conditions: a touchscreen with haptic feedback, a touchscreen without haptic feedback, and traditional physical controls. We hypothesize that haptic feedback will mitigate visual resource competition, evidenced by decreased gaze duration and lower self-reported mental workload. Furthermore, we anticipate improved critical driving metrics, such as lane-keeping accuracy, due to the reduced need for visual confirmation. By comparing single-modality (visual-only) to multi-modality (visual-haptic and physical) interfaces through the lens of Multiple Resource Theory, this research aims to provide empirical evidence for designing safer, more intuitive human-machine interfaces for next-generation vehicles.
The Tactile Advantage: Mitigating Driver Distraction via Physical Feedback in Automotive Touchscreens
Modern in-vehicle touchscreens increase visual distraction in the already demanding task of driving, compromising road safety. This study investigates the application of electroadhesion-based haptic feedback (surface haptics) – a technology that modulates electrostatic fields to vary surface friction and simulate physical textures on a smooth screen – to reduce visual dependency. Using a high-fidelity driving simulator, participants will perform search-and-select tasks that represent common in-vehicle tasks (e.g., climate or volume adjustments) while maintaining lane position and constant speed in a low-distraction highway environment.
Performance will be evaluated across three conditions: a touchscreen with haptic feedback, a touchscreen without haptic feedback, and traditional physical controls. We hypothesize that haptic feedback will mitigate visual resource competition, evidenced by decreased gaze duration and lower self-reported mental workload. Furthermore, we anticipate improved critical driving metrics, such as lane-keeping accuracy, due to the reduced need for visual confirmation. By comparing single-modality (visual-only) to multi-modality (visual-haptic and physical) interfaces through the lens of Multiple Resource Theory, this research aims to provide empirical evidence for designing safer, more intuitive human-machine interfaces for next-generation vehicles.