Flash Interface Demo (early test motion graphics, not final)
The Flash file is a bit large at the moment….its about 3.5mb. Currently Im optimizing the next version to be more light weight without sacrificing image quality.
01 Traditional Automotive Manual
INTRO: While owner’s manuals are usually packed with valuable instructions, information and important warnings that you’ve probably never read they do have relevance when you purchase a new vehicle. Retrieving your vehicles information in a more visual non linear fashion can be achieved through a mobile application.
02 Research and Opportunities
RESEARCH: A source of frustration for any driver is when an engine light turns on. Although a vehicle is still drivable the owner is left in the dark of what the problem might be?. Can we use a mobile device to empower the average driver to initially diagnose the problem and create more convenient ways to connect with service from a vehicle dealership?
ODB2 PORT: Todays vehicles require a specialized scan tool to connect to a standardized On Board Diagnostic’s System to read engine codes. Mobile devices can be leveraged to process and scan for these engine codes and give the user some insight into possible problems and offer various service solutions.
GUIDED SELF-REPAIR: The vehicles on todays market are ever increasing in complexities in the amount of information systems on board. Helping the user determine and locate certain features in their vehicle can be a multi media experience through a mobile device that can help the vehicle owner make small maintenance with minimal confusion and guess work.
03 Concept and Development
OWNERS MANUAL: As we push forward towards paperless documents, we can see evidence with various automotive manufacturers offering more vehicle manuals in a PDF downloadable format. Mobile applications of a owner’s vehicle manual can be used as a marketing tool or a utility tool for car owners to understand and maintain their vehicle.
CONTROL UI: The control panel illustrates a visual representation of the actual dashboard layout. The user has the ability to explore gauges for example when a engine indicator lights up and has the ability to scan and read what the problem might be and offer simple troubleshooting advice.
TECHNICAL SPECS: Offering users a visually narrative way to explore specifications of their vehicle allow drivers understand certain vehicle features and capabilities. I would like to expand out this user interface by layering various vehicle systems and the ability to peel away features to see specific information.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE: Mobile devices might be helpful in guiding users in keeping up with various maintenance while enjoying their vehicle purchase. Giving milestone and periodic updates on the condition or various components on the vehicle might help drivers avoid costly repairs down the road.
04 Conclusions and Next Steps
Although this was just a personal exploration project for myself I would like to expand out the various functions of the UI and possibly use a Nokia N900 together with some hacked together sensor tools to read various functions of a test vehicle and see what other functions I can build out. I do believe mobile device have a role to play in making driving experiences more enjoyable and safer either as a navigation, communication, entertainment or utility and diagnostic tool.