Re-imagining motocross safety through autobiographical design

Abstract: This study explores the design space of motocross within Human-Computer Interaction with focus on warning riders of danger while practicing unsupervised. Using autobiographical design, the aim was to investigate mechanisms and modalities suitable for motocross where the environment, tracks, physical and mental load on the riders were some of the challenges faced. With basis in research within other sports and a domain expert focus group, a prototype was developed and iterated over a period of three months using the author and recruited participants as riders. The process was documented using a diary. The study concluded that using the helmet as mounting point was effective due to not being intrusive for the riders and no track alterations were needed to implement the system for real use. Visual feedback using light mounted under the visor showed to be unreliable due to sun interference, while sound created by vibrations on the top of the helmet shown to be suitable for warning motocross riders. Using visual and auditory modalities together, the light was concluded to be efficient as an information display when attention was brought to the rider by the vibration sound.