Haptic Foot Pedal: Influence of Shoe Type, Age, and Gender on Subjective Pulse Perception

Abstract

Objective: This study investigates the influence of shoe type (sneakers and safety boots), age, and gender on the perception of haptic pulse feedback provided by a prototype accelerator pedal in a running stationary vehicle. Background: Haptic feedback can be a less distracting alternative to traditionally visual and auditory in-vehicle feedback. However, to be effective, the device delivering the haptic feedback needs to be in contact with the person. Factors such as shoe type vary naturally over the season and could render feedback that is perceived well in one situation, unnoticeable in another. In this study, we evaluate factors that can influence the subjective perception of haptic feedback in a stationary but running car: shoe type, age, and gender. Method: Thirty-six drivers within three age groups (≤39, 40–59, and ≥60) took part. For each haptic feedback, participants rated intensity, urgency, and comfort via a questionnaire. Results: The perception of the haptic feedback is significantly influenced by the interaction between the pulse’s duration and force amplitude and the participant’s age and gender but not shoe type. Conclusion: The results indicate that it is important to consider different age groups and gender in the evaluation of haptic feedback. Future research might also look into approaches to adapt haptic feedback to the individual driver’s preferences. Application: Findings from this study can be applied to the design of an accelerator pedal in a car, for example, for a nonvisual in-vehicle warning, but also to plan user studies with a haptic pedal in general.