A framework for usability evaluation of automated driving human-machine interface in context of UAE

Abstract

As a future mobility enabler, vehicle teleoperation offers a viable option for efficiently leveraging the benefits of driverless cars, whilst fully automated cars (SAE 5) are not completely viable. Despite the huge amount of research on self-driving technology, the notion of riding in a fully automated vehicle is still sceptical. Hence necessitating the presence of a remote operator who tele monitors the vehicle and acquire control in case of failure beyond the capabilities of vehicle automation, such as misuse, disuse or mode confusion and ensuring safety and reliability. Keeping the current inclination towards automated vehicles and the launch of the United Arab Emirates” (UAE) first driverless, autonomous 12-seater shuttle, the researcher has suggested a low-fidelity basic prototype. To connect the vehicle’s automation and human teleoperation, the researcher has proposed a unique and interactive framework of Human-Machine Interface (HMI) to cater teleoperation in the context of automated vehicles (AVs) in the UAE. The design is optimised for the teleoperation of a highly automated shuttle by a public transportation control centre based on a logical and careful inquiry. After deriving a detailed analysis of requirements, a prototype is then created and refined until an interactive user-interface emerges. Fifteen control station experts are presented with a prototype for evaluation in a regular manner and solicited to work out three scenarios with disruptions in the system. The prototype is then evaluated using questionnaires and structured interviews. The results validate the suggested HMI design for the remote operation of a highly automated vehicle. Participants’ feedback shows a particularly high level of satisfaction in terms of perceived capacity, feasibility, usability approval and situational responsiveness. The findings also provide valuable information for an advanced interactive HMI design and pave the way for potential future directions in further research as well.