Defining the Interface for a Snowplow Lane Tracking Device Using a Systems-Based Approach

Abstract

This paper summarizes a systems-based approach to the design of an operator interface for a “Magnetic Lateral Guidance and Warning System” for snowplow operations. The premise behind this interface is that providing continuous and accurate lane position information to complement existing roadway cues may increase driver situation awareness, and potentially reduce crash involvement. An extensive survey returned by over 1000 snowplow operators from Minnesota and Iowa identified operational issues critical to low-visibility operations. Survey findings and ride-along interviews supported an Operator Function Model - Cognitive Task Analysis (OFM-COG). The OFM-COG describes operational constraints and links them to the cognitive limits of drivers in order to identify critical functionality and preliminary design criteria. Findings suggest that the interface be designed as an “aid,‘ rather than as a “primary’ display, to complement existing roadway cues. The visual display should be augmented with haptic cues such as directional seat vibration and peripheral visual, and all alarms should have adjustable thresholds. A prototype user interface is presented.