Rethinking In-Car Climate Control: A Rotary Dial Prototype
2025-02-11
Frustrated by carmakers' over-reliance on touchscreens and overly complex interfaces, the author spent two years rethinking in-car climate control. He designed an automated system controlled by a rotary dial, adjusting fan speed and seat heating, with touchscreen overrides. Prototyping involved the Seedlabs Smart Knob kit, experimenting with haptic feedback's impact on usability. The conclusion: a dial controlling temperature and fan speed is optimal, with separate physical controls for seat heating. The author urges carmakers to return to physical controls for improved UX and safety.