Evaluating multimodal interaction patterns in various application scenarios

In this work, we present the results of a comparative user study evaluating multimodal user interactions with regard to two different operation scenarios: A desktop Virtual-Reality application (DVA) and an automotive infotainment application (AIA). Besides classical tactile input devices, like touch-screen and key-console, the systems can be controlled by natural speech as well as by hand and head gestures. Concerning both domains, we have found out that experts tend to use tactile devices, but normal users and beginners prefer combinations of more advanced input possibilities. Complementary actions most often occurred in DVA, whereas in AIA, the use of redundant input clearly dominates the set of multimodal interactions. Concerning time relations, the individual interaction length of speech and gesture-based input was below 1.5 seconds on the average and staggered intermodal overlapping occurred most often. Additionally, we could find out that the test users try to stay within a chosen interaction form. With regard to the overall subjective user experiences, the interfaces were rated very positively.