How to rate the vehicle cockpit seat usage experience? A computational method based on embodied cognition theory

Background: Vehicle cockpit seats are an important part of a car's interior. A superior vehicle cockpit seat usage experience plays a vital role in enhancing consumers’ driving experience. Objective: The objective of this study is to identify the factors influencing the vehicle cockpit seats usage experience, clarify the importance of each factor, and develop a quantitative evaluation model. Methods: Based on the theory of embodied cognition, this study develops a dynamic experience system for vehicle cockpit seats and divides the experience of vehicle cockpit seats into comfort experience, safety experience, functional experience and interaction experience. This study used semi-structured interviews to investigate the factors influencing the usage experience of vehicle cockpit seats among 50 experienced users. Finally, by comprehensively applying the hierarchical analysis method, the Delphi method, and D-number theory, we constructed an evaluation model of vehicle cockpit seats based on expert opinion and experience and analyzed the importance of each influencing factor. Results: The results showed that seat safety experience had the greatest impact on vehicle cockpit seat usage experience followed by the comfort experience. The seat structure, seat mechanical performance, preventive protection and physical buttons were found to have relatively strong effects. Conclusion: The study underscores the design and optimization of vehicle cockpit seats should prioritize safety and comfort, as these factors are critical to enhancing the overall experience for drivers and passengers. Car manufacturers and designers can use these insights to improve seat ergonomics, usability, and protection features, ultimately contributing to a more comfortable and secure driving environment.