The Human Element in Autonomous Vehicles

Autonomous vehicle research has been prevalent for well over a decade but only recently has there been a small amount of research conducted on the human interaction that occurs in autonomous vehicles. Although functional software and sensor technology is essential for safe operation, which has been the main focus of autonomous vehicle research, handling all elements of human interaction is also a very salient aspect of their success. This paper will provide an overview of the importance of human vehicle interaction in autonomous vehicles, while considering relevant related factors that are likely to impact adoption. Particular attention will be given to prior research conducted on germane areas relating to control in the automobile, in addition to the different elements that are expected to affect the likelihood of success for these vehicles initially developed for human operation. This paper will also include a discussion of the limited research conducted to consider interactions with humans and the current state of published functioning software and sensor technology that exists.