Developing Advanced GPS Navigational System Designs: Sufficient Simulations

Existing GPS navigational systems are used extensively but have substantial deficiencies. These deficiencies are summarized. We describe a new advanced system that has many advantages and eliminates or reduces current deficiencies. The design process is described. Importantly, it depended on human factors evaluations that were used to assess whether system interface components were compatible with human perceptual and cognitive capabilities. Secondly, multiple simulations of individual design components were used to assess compatibility of features with human cognitive abilities at each step in the design process. The final design provides drivers with easy to use turn-by-turn navigational guidance, but the same display also allows drivers to learn and make executive decisions about their environment.