Semi-Autonomous Vehicles

Abstract

Human factors elements are critical to the success of autonomous vehicle technology. These human factors elements can include understanding how drivers adopt and interact with this technology, identifying the challenges that a driver may face during the driver-vehicle interaction, and considering these challenges in the design of the driver-vehicle interface. Previous analyses suggested that take-over – when an individual regains control of the vehicle – is one driving period that could raise critical safety concerns. This on-going study aims to observe how drivers perform during the critical take-over period. In addition, this study also explores the effectiveness of two warning to take-over intervals (warning given 7.5 seconds or 4.5 seconds before take-over). Some trends in the preliminary results are emerging; particularly a possible improved performance over three sections of drives (4 take-overs in each section). Findings and future directions are discussed.