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Vehicle interiors are pushing the envelope of style and spaciousness to meet customer expectations. Form follows function of the instrument panel Human-Machine Interface layout is constantly challenged and compromises often must be made to support cabin comfort and design attributes. Usability and driver workload must also be considered at the early design stages of vehicle development, as well as at the HMI component level. This paper discusses the technical issues and possible solutions to support both cabin spaciousness and visibility needs, and optimal viewing and control of in-vehicle electronics. The challenges imposed on the user interfaces of such systems as audio, climate control and navigation are discussed and a practical solution is presented. Highlights of related customer needs and field evaluations are also discussed as they have influenced the strategy.

Digital signal processors (DSPs) are being used widely for sound field reproduction. However, it is difficult to apply a DSP to a car audio system because of the complicated acoustic characteristics of the passenger compartment. The authors have developed a new car audio system which employs special DSP software and a new speaker layout to provide excellent presence. The DSP has five output channels to generate stereophonic reflection from the front and rear speakers. The DSP software is programmed for each individual car model. A center speaker and A-pillar tweeters are used to produce a natural sound field in front through effective utilization of reflection from the windshield. This system is featured in 1992 Nissan models.