The effects of noise-robustness of in-car voice-controlled systems on user perceptions and driving behaviour

In-car voice-controlled infotainment systems are becoming increasingly common in automobiles, but the effects on users when their accuracy degrades in the presence of background noise has not been examined. This thesis compares use of both noise-sensitive and noise-robust simulated voice-controlled infotainment systems under three background noise conditions. It was found that the sensitive system was perceived to be less useful and satisfying even when it performed identically to the robust system. No differences were observed between the systems in several driving performance metrics (with the exception of brake response), but the use of either system impaired driving performance compared to baseline. Glances and subjective workload demonstrated advantages to the robust system. Increased heart rate was observed with the robust system. The results demonstrate that noise robustness is a key factor in user acceptance, and may mitigate visual distraction generated by voice-controlled systems; however, the effects on driving performance are inconclusive.M.A.S