Provides tactile input/output sensation to control devices without distracting driver attention

The Korea Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) has agreed to collaborate with BMW Korea R&D Center on developing key technologies for next-generation automobiles.

ETRI announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for inter-institutional technology cooperation and will collaborate with BMW on comprehensive automotive-related technologies including ▲user experience-based driver assistance technology ▲automotive communication technology ▲power technology ▲and new material technology.

The automobile industry represents the Fourth Industrial Revolution, where traditional mechanical technology and cutting-edge information and communications technology (ICT) are rapidly converging. Recently, automobiles have evolved beyond mere transportation means to become intelligent information devices that integrate state-of-the-art technology most comprehensively.

ETRI explained that as a specialized research institute in the ICT field, it will collaborate with BMW, a leading global automobile company, to strengthen ICT cooperation in the automotive sector going forward.

In this regard, the two institutions launched 'joint development of a driver interface incorporating tactile input/output' as their first step starting in October of last year.

This research and development aims to provide a safe and highly satisfying environment by adding tactile input/output sensation to driver control devices within automobiles, which are increasingly becoming electronic, thereby preventing driver attention distraction during driving.

Accordingly, ETRI and BMW are jointly developing driver interface technology that enables drivers to recognize vehicle interior control devices through tactile sense without visual confirmation and to operate control devices utilizing tactile sensation.

ETRI anticipates that through tactile interaction research incorporating intelligent material technology that changes physical shape when electrical signals are applied, it will effectively resolve driver driving safety issues that may occur when operating devices inside vehicles due to electronics integration.

ETRI notes that this research utilizes technology secured through 'transparent device research' being pursued as part of a major initiative by the Ministry of Science and ICT, and expects it to be applied to next-generation automotive user interfaces.

Han Dong-won, director of ETRI's SW Contents Research Institute, stated, "We will strengthen cooperation with BMW in multiple areas to expand ETRI's globally competitive ICT applications across all fields related to automotive electronics, and as a national research institute, we will strive to secure ICT leadership in the Fourth Industrial Revolution era."