1st SCARline Workshop: On Operationalization of Driving Simulator Studies for Accessible In-Vehicle HMI Prototyping and Evaluation

Abstract

Designing and evaluating in-vehicle Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI) requires researchers and UX designers to simultaneously navigate driving simulation software, interaction design, and user study methodology, a steep learning curve for those without a deep technical background. This workshop introduces SCARline, an open platform built atop a driving simulator that abstracts away technical complexity, letting researchers and designers focus on their research question, study design, and the in-cabin interaction they want to evaluate. A preliminary evaluation with participants from mixed disciplinary backgrounds provided initial validation and surfaced key areas for improvement, motivating this workshop as the next step in an iterative development process. Participants will be introduced to the platform architecture, guided through designing their own HMI widget, and supported in configuring a fully functional user study scenario within the simulator. The workshop invites the broader AutomotiveUI community to engage hands-on with SCARline and collectively inform its future development.