Landmarks for Navigation by Drives’ with Color Vision Deficiency

Abstract

The objective of this study is to identify potential landmarks for in-car navigation, considering drivers who present Color Vision Deficiency - CVD. In-Car Navigation Systems (RGNS) display traffic light and bridge over road, which are among the environment context elements more used by the drivers having Normal Color Vision – NCV. An empirical study investigated the demand for route guide information with a group of drivers who have CVD by using two techniques of information externalization, map sketch and verbal note. Data collected with drivers having CVD were compared between both techniques, and data collected from map sketch, originated from this study, were compared with data collected in a previous study, which used drivers having NCV. From the landmarks that presented the highest frequency of using among the participants, some are more important for route guidance than others. Verbal notes technique complemented the map sketch, suggesting that applicating just one would not be enough to find more conclusive results. Bridge over road and hospital were the most used, followed by park and traffic light. The attributes that defined the quality of landmarks are presented from the most valued. Traffic light, bridge over road and park should be included in maps of Car Navigation Systems to aid the task of route following for drivers having CVD. New landmarks may emerge according to the characteristics of each environment.