Role
HMI designer, UX/UI designer
HMI designer
UX/UI designer
Introduction
This is a university project completed during my final year in collaboration with Iveco, a global leader in the transport industry.
The brief challenged us to design an innovative HMI for heavy vehicles, focusing on enhancing the user experience for truck drivers.
Challenge
The challenge of this project consists in analyzing the truck driver's user experience, identifying the main problems and aspects to improve, with particular attention to the interactions between the user and the vehicle.
Research
During the initial research phase, I focused on creating a detailed profile of a truck driver who frequently undertakes multi-day international trips. Using this data, I then developed a hypothetical user journey to identify daily challenges and key areas for improvement.
Pain points
From the analysis of Marco's user journey, these key pain points emerged:
Navigation
One of the most common problems concerns navigation systems, which are often not optimized for the specific needs of heavy vehicles. These tools do not take into account limitations such as bridge heights, narrow roads, access bans or weight restrictions, forcing truck drivers to unnecessarily deviate from the optimal route. This not only waste precious time, but also increase fuel consumption and the driver's stress level.
Communication
Ineffective communication between truck drivers, suppliers and customers is a significant problem. Currently, loading and unloading processes are slowed down by the manual handling of documents such as bills of lading or delivery receipts. In case of problems (missing or damaged goods), the truck driver must manually report the discrepancies, extending delivery times. There is no immediate system to notify customers or suppliers of the status of loading/unloading or any delays, generating inefficiency.
Load management
Unstable or poorly distributed cargo is a common concern for truck drivers, often caused by uneven weight distribution or sudden movements like sharp turns or hard braking. Many drivers lack tools to monitor load status or vehicle stability, leading to potential damage to goods, increased wear on tires and suspension, wasted time checking the load manually, and, in severe cases, safety risks like overturning.
Layout
The entire system is built around widgets that scroll within just two types of layouts. This approach minimizes cognitive load for the user and ensures a more intuitive experience.
Solution
The top widget keeps the driver informed with real-time notifications from clients and suppliers, such as delays or changes in schedule.
The system updates routes based on vehicle dimensions, highlighting restrictions like low bridges and weight limits for safer, more efficient travel.
"Report Delay" button for immediate updates to clients.
Load management
The interface provides a clear visualization of the cargo’s weight distribution, helping to ensure optimal stability. Below the visualization, real-time indicators monitor the truck’s key systems improving safety and reducing maintenance risks and in case of problems, the system alerts the driver.
Delivery info
The "Delivery Info" section provides detailed shipment information and allows the driver to manually report loading/unloading progress or flag issues with the cargo, instantly alerting relevant stakeholders.
Modeled and rendered witch Blender.
I created an application that includes useful features for the user, including the ability to remotely control the cabin's climate.
Home mode
The Home Mode lets drivers detach the HMI screen from its magnetic base and use it like a tablet during breaks. With access to popular streaming services, it ensures a relaxing and enjoyable downtime, enhancing comfort on long journeys.
Results
The HMI improves the truck driver’s experience by solving key challenges. It ensures safer journeys with optimized navigation and load stability monitoring. Communication with clients and suppliers is faster and more efficient, reducing delays. Overall, the system saves time, lowers stress, and enhances safety and productivity on the road.
