Surface-Changing Controllers
Project developed at: Harman International
Similar and complementary to the Shape-Shifting Controller, this project's goal was to counteract information overload and distraction. With the Future Experience team at Harman International, I researched how to create an in-car touch controller and armrest that can change their surfaces to convey information intuitively to the driver.
Different surface textures for an armrest or controller can intuitively communicate how to interact with a system, a menu or a in-vehicle functionality. Transforming an input device in input/output also offers the benefits to load balance the human senses for the driver, bringing tactile feedback into the loop.
I worked on the ideation, patenting, proof-of-concept research and creation of the video that outlines the in-vehicle UX.
Granted Patent
Granted Patent on Stiffness changing
This image illustrates how a dynamically textured controller surface can provide tactile feedback to the driver. By modifying surface textures—such as ridges, bumps, or smooth areas—the controller communicates system information intuitively. This allows drivers to interact with the infotainment system without diverting their visual attention from the road or adding extra auditory distractions.
The tactile surface adjusts in real-time to reflect navigation cues, alerts, or system states, creating a safer and more seamless driving experience.
Company: Harman International
Team: Future Experience Team
Location: Palo Alto, CA
Year: 2014-2015
This concept video from late 2015 explores a variety of shape-shifting interfaces, including surface-changing hand rests, shape-altering rotary controllers, and thickness-adjusting steering wheels (the last two are discussed in the Shape Shifting Controllers project). These interfaces are intentionally hands-free and rely on tactile interaction, avoiding additional visual or auditory demands on the driver to reduce sensory overload.
Several concepts presented in the video have since been developed into functional prototypes, with some approaching production-ready status. All innovations shown are safeguarded by patents.