Modular dashboard for flexible in car HMI testing

Driving simulators are important tools for the evaluation of in car infotainment and driver assistance systems with respect to their ergonomics, design, usability and user experience. To increase efficiency by integrating different devices and HMI prototypes into the driving simulator in a flexible way, a new type of modular testing environment has been conceptualized. It is based on a modular dashboard which was developed and integrated into the existing driving simulation car, a Renault Scenic. This approach eases the adaptation of the dashboard to any new HMI requirement on the one hand and still allows for evaluation in the realistic in-vehicle environment. The paper includes examples of use during different research projects which demonstrate the function and advantages of the new dashboard.