SELECTION OF CONTROL TYPE
Introduction: Selection of control type refers to the apparatus by which the driver makes control inputs (i.e., push-buttons, push-pull knobs, rotary knobs (discrete and continuous), levers, slides, thumbwheels, toggle switches, or rocker switches). Selection of appropriate control types is important to decisions regarding control location, because some control types are more suited to particular locations, and, conversely, particular locations are ideal for certain types of controls.
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Design Guidelines***
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The tables below provides a summary of the suggested control types with respect to various design and human-computer interface characteristics. Recommendations for control selections from the various human factors sources are in good agreement (see References 1, 2, 3, and 4). |
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Control Function |
Suggested Control Type |
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Selection between two alternatives or discrete positions; e.g., on/off. |
Toggle switch, two-position stalk, push-pull knob, push-button, or rocker switch. |
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Selection among three or more alternatives or discrete positions; e.g., modes of operation for climate controls. |
Slide, multipurpose stalk, discrete rotary knob, three-position toggle or rocker switch, push-buttons (for three alternatives only), key pad, or touch screen. |
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Precise adjustment; e.g., radio volume. |
Continuous rotary knob or thumbwheel. |
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Gross adjustment; e.g., intermittent windshield wiper. |
Continuous rotary knob, lever, or touch screen. |
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Large force application; e.g., column tilt. |
Lever. |
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Expected Control Location |
Suggested Control Type |
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Panel |
Toggle switch, rotary knob, push-pull knob, thumbwheel, slide, push-button, rocker switch, touch screen, or key pad. |
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Stalk |
Rotary on end or in middle of stalk, push-button on end of stalk, or small slide. |
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Pod |
Push-button or thumbwheel. |
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Steering wheel, side |
Stalk or lever. |
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Steering wheel, front |
Push-button. |
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Control Task Requirement |
Suggested Control Type |
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Blind operation |
Toggle switch, rocker switch, discrete rotary knob, or key pad. |
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Tactile feedback |
Toggle switch, rocker switch, push-to-lock push-button, slide with detents, discrete rotary knob, or key pad. |
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Visual identification of control position |
Toggle switch, rotary, slide, or lever. |
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Easy check reading in an array of controls |
Toggle switch, rotary, slide, or lever. |
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Fast actuation |
Toggle switch, two-position stalk, rocker switch, or push-button. |
Supporting Rationale: Controls vary not only in terms of their functions,
applications, and methods of operations, but also with respect to such characteristics
as their relative space requirements, the likelihood of accidental activation,
and the ease with which the position of the control can be identified. These
characteristics should be considered when determining the method of operation
and control type for secondary automotive controls.
Special Design Considerations: Selection of a control type is an iterative process, involving trade-offs between a variety of competing design concerns. In particular, control selection requires an analysis of the following driver-vehicle system considerations (adapted from Reference 1): (1) the function of the control, (2) the desired location of the control, (3) the requirement of the control task, (4) the vehicle environment, and (5) the consequence of driver error.
Cross References:
Control Movement Compatibility
Key References:
1. Chapanis, A., & Kinkade, R. G. (1972). Design of controls. In H. P. Van Cott & R. G. Kinkade (Eds.), Human engineering guide to equipment design (rev. ed.) (pp. 345-379). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office.
2. Boff, K. R., & Lincoln, J. E. (Eds.). (1988). Engineering data compendium: Human perception and performance. Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OH: Armstrong Aerospace Medical Research Laboratory.
3. Woodson, D. E., & Conover, D. W. (1964). Human engineering guide for equipment designers. Berkeley, CA: University of California Press.
4. MIL-STD-1472D. (1989). Human engineering design criteria for military systems, equipment and facilities. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office.
*Primarily expert judgement
** Expert judgement with supporting empirical data
***Empirical data with supporting expert judgement
****Primarily empirical data