bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Lane Changes Automatically using the GPS Sensors of Portable Devices
Authors: Driessen Tom , Prasad Lokin , Bazilinskyy Pavlo , De Winter Joost
Published: June 2022

Mobile applications that provide GPS-based route navigation advice or driver diagnostics are gaining popularity. However, these applications currently do not have knowledge of whether the driver is performing a lane change. Having such information may prove valuable to individual drivers (e.g., to provide more specific navigation instructions) or road authorities (e.g., knowledge of lane change hotspots may inform road design). The present study aimed to assess the accuracy of lane change recognition algorithms that rely solely on mobile GPS sensor input. Three trips on Dutch highways, totaling 158 km of driving, were performed while carrying two smartphones (Huawei P20, Samsung Galaxy S9), a GPS-equipped GoPro Max, and a USB GPS receiver (GlobalSat BU343-s4). The timestamps of all 215 lane changes were manually extracted from the forward-facing GoPro camera footage, and used as ground truth. After connecting the GPS trajectories to the road using Mapbox Map Matching API (2022), lane changes were identified based on the exceedance of a lateral translation threshold in set time windows. Different thresholds and window sizes were tested for their ability to discriminate between a pool of lane change segments and an equally-sized pool of no-lane-change segments. The overall accuracy of the lane-change classification was found to be 90%. The method appears promising for highway engineering and traffic behavior research that use floating car data, but there may be limited applicability to real-time advisory systems due to the occasional occurrence of false positives.
Detection of Discomfort in Autonomous Driving via Stochastic Approximation
Authors: Kretzschmar Florian , Beggiato Matthias , Pichler Alois
Published: June 2022

One of the most important goals in the field of autonomous driving development is to make the experience for the passenger as pleasant and comfortable as possible. In addition to traditional influence factors on passenger comfort, new aspects arise due to the transfer of control from the human to the vehicle. Some of these are apparent safety, motion sickness, user preferences regarding driving style and information needs. Ideally, the vehicle and the passenger should form a team, whereby the vehicle should be able to detect and predict situations of discomfort in real time and take measures accordingly. This requires not only the continuous monitoring of the passengers state but also the implementation of adequate mathematical models. To investigate how this teaming of human and automated agents can be shaped in the most effective way is a key topic of the Collaborative Research Center “Hybrid Societies (https://hybrid-societies.org/). In this framework, driving simulator data from the previous project “KomfoPilot” (https://bit.ly/komfopilot) is re-analyzed using new mathematical models. The participants in the study completed several automated drives and reported continuously situations of discomfort using a handset control. Sensor data was collected simultaneously using eye tracking glasses, a smart band, seat pressure sensors and video cameras for motion and face tracking. While pupil diameter, heart rate, interblink intervals, skin conductance and head movement have already been identified as potential single indicators of discomfort, it is now necessary to integrate these and other findings of the project into a functional multivariate model. In this paper, we investigate how such a model can be shaped to offer high prediction accuracy and viable practical implementation. The first important question – which arises from the heterogeneity of the participants – is whether to work with training data on an individual or aggregated level. We compare both possibilities by applying techniques from the field of stochastic approximation for clustering of the chosen training set and subsequent classification of the test data. In the case of an individual model for each participant, we furthermore divide the participants into subgroups and analyze whether there is a connection between the physiological reactions of a passenger and his/her demographic characteristics and driving experience. Finally, we discuss the potential of our method as a reliable prediction model as well as implications for future driving simulator studies and related research.
Evaluation of the Seating Environment of an Autonomous Taxi on User Needs – An Online Survey Investigation
Authors: Kipp Manuel , Guo Caroline , Bengler Klaus
Published: June 2022

In the UNICARagil project, funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, four modular autonomous vehicle concepts are de-veloped. The paper deals with an autonomous taxi designed for ride sharing and non-driving tasks and activities. An online-based survey is conducted to evaluate integrated components and features of the seating environment under different conditions of use. The expectations, preferences and wishes of 181 survey par-ticipants are compared with the aspects and features to be offered in the auto-TAXI. The results show that using the equipment elements of the seating envi-ronment depends on various influencing factors such as trip duration, type of trip, privacy and activity. In general, users' expectations of the autoTAXI's equipment elements are met.
Take a Seat! – Passengers’ Perceived Risk and Driving Behavior Preferences During Automated Driving in Urban Mixed Traffic Depending on the Seating Position
Authors: Stange Vanessa , Helweg Sarah , Vollrath Mark
Published: June 2022

In future urban mixed traffic, passengers of highly automated vehicles (HAVs; SAE Level 4) will observe from a passive position how the automated system resolves space-sharing conflicts with crossing vulnerable road users (VRUs) at junctions. Since passengers are no longer required to intervene in the driving task but can choose any seat in the automated vehicle, we investigated the effects of seating position on passengers' driving behavior preferences and perceived risk in this space-sharing conflict. In a stationary driving simulator study, we varied HAV speed, VRU type, VRU crossing direction, and the passenger’s seating position (driver’s seat, passenger seat). During each VRU interaction, participants triggered the HAV’s braking maneuver by pressing a button, at (a) a point they considered ideal and (b) at the last acceptable braking onset they considered safe enough for the HAV to stop at the stop line. After each trial, participants rated perceived risk on an 8-point scale. We also analyzed the distance of the HAV from the VRU and the time-to-collision with the VRU at braking onset. Data were collected from 30 participants. The results show that seating position has no effect on passengers' perceived risk or on their preferred braking onset timing. Instead, passengers aimed to avoid risk experiences when interacting with the VRU, regardless of the seat position. These results are consistent with previous studies.
Crowdsourced Assessment of 227 Text-Based eHMIs for a Crossing Scenario
Authors: Bazilinskyy Pavlo , Sodou Dimitra , De Winter Joost
Published: June 2022

Future automated vehicles may be equipped with external human-machine interfaces (eHMIs) capable of signaling whether pedestrians can cross the road. Industry and academia have proposed a variety of eHMIs featuring a text message. An eHMI message can refer to the action to be performed by the pedestrian (egocentric message) or the automated vehicle (allocentric message). Currently, there is no consensus on the correct phrasing of the text message. We created 227 eHMIs based on text-based eHMIs observed in the literature. A crowdsourcing experiment (N = 1438) was performed with images depicting an automated vehicle equipped with an eHMI on the front bumper. The participants indicated whether they would (not) cross the road, and response times were recorded. Egocentric messages were found to be more compelling for participants to (not) cross than allocentric messages. Furthermore, Spanish-speaking participants found Spanish eHMIs more compelling than English eHMIs. Finally, it was established that some eHMI texts should be avoided, as signified by low compellingness, long responses, and high inter-subject variability.
Acceptance of app based interaction between automated micro vehicles (AMV) and their users
Authors: Lotz Vivian , Schomakers Eva-Maria , Ziefle Martina
Published: June 2022

In the current paradigm of rapid urban growth and with the growing number of daily delivered goods, it is indispensable to develop new mobility solutions, ensuring sustainable, safe, and reliable inner-city logistics. This paper examined Duck-Train, an automated, electric Follow-Me micro vehicle concept (Follow-Me AMV). More specifically, we took a closer look at the communication between the vehicles and their users.We created an app prototype to enable potential users to interact with AMVs and initiate maneuvers. Afterward, we conducted a bilingual (German and Turkish) online survey (N = 202) containing four interaction tasks. After solving the tasks via the survey-integrated prototype, participants were asked to evaluate the app.Data were analyzed regarding the interface acceptance, the influence of the queried factors on acceptance, and the moderating effect of culture. The relationship between factors was examined using structural equation modeling (SEM). Results show that the app was overall well assessed. Moreover, acceptance of interaction concepts for in traffic communication is, on the one hand, affected by the interfaces' perceived usefulness, the hedonic motivation, and the users' trust in the system. On the other hand, user characteristics also influence the evaluation.
Systematic and user-oriented development of physical interface for vehicle ultrafast charging
Authors: Mueller Alexander , Buck Simon , Schmiel Fabian , Tsolakidis Lampros
Published: June 2022

Status Quo: Electric vehicles currently available on the market have a real maximum range of approx. 400 - 500 km at low temperatures (source: Electric Vehicle Database). The shortest charging time of an electric vehicle is currently approx. 22 min. to charge the vehicle battery with max. 270KW from 5% to 80% (source: PAG).Problem: The range and the time required to refill the energy storage of electric vehicles are not yet as long as those of vehicles powered by internal combustion engines. For the user, these deficits are associated with a loss of comfort, especially on long-distance journeys.Method of Resolution: A promising approach is to significantly reduce the charging time by increasing the charging power with simultaneous and efficient dissipation of the waste heat. Technically, this is to be implemented with a vehicle-external cooling fluid, which is provided by the charging infrastructure. The question arises how the novel thermal interface then necessary can be physically integrated into the charging process, into the vehicle and into the charging infrastructure with special consideration of user requirements. The paper presents the design of three prototype connectors, using the standardized product development method described in VDI 2221. Requirements are defined from the analysis of the competitive environment and the required integration of a thermal interface. On the one hand, the focus lies on the technical and physical requirements related to the electrical and thermal power transmission, on the other hand, the human-product requirements related to the physical use are assigned special importance. For the conception, the derivation of Function Structures and subsequently the identification of all sub-functions serves as an essential basis. Partial functions of the interface that have proven themselves in the electrical power transmission of the standardized CCS interface (source: IEC 62196-3 / SAE J1772) are adopted. Essentially, the sub-functions "leakage-free coupling / decoupling", "overcoming closing resistances" and "user-friendly connector handling" are identified as design-critical. By defining and selecting suitable versions of the sub-functions, three interface concepts are systematically derived and evaluated against each other in test person studies. The result shows that vehicle ultrafast charging with electrical and thermal power transfer and with only one connector is possible for all users and all vehicle types from an ergonomic point of view. A test person study shows that the users prefer the handling of the new interface compared to the charging standard currently used on the market and a separate, hydraulic power transmission.
Human factors and political price regulations to enhance electric vehicle miles traveled
Authors: Gutjar Margarita , Kowald Matthias
Published: June 2022

A shift to electric vehicles is necessary for transport decarbonization and requires the consideration of human factors in the design of political regulations. By applying the Theory of Planned Behavior this research identifies key motivational determinants of the decision to state a higher share of electric vehicle miles traveled. In a stated adaptation experiment, respondents were confronted with new price regulations and could adopt all mobility tools in their household, e.g. include an electric vehicle, and specify the annual vehicle miles traveled. The results of a structural equation model on data of 424 respondents show that the stated proportion of electric vehicle miles traveled is higher with a person’s greater intention to buy an electric vehicle, while the intention itself is predicted by a person’s attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavior control of buying an electric vehicle.
Passengers’ perception on Bus Rapid Transit access: Case study of Ikorodu-Mile 12 corridor of Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Akinyemi Oriyomi , Soyinka Oluwole
Published: June 2022

The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system is a transport infrastructure that has grown tremendously among developing countries, including Africa. However, the effectiveness of such a transport system needs an evaluation from the users' perception. Access to a transportation system is an important factor in measuring the effectiveness of a transport system. Using Ikorodu-Mile12 corridor as a case study, this study examined the commuters' perception on the level of access to Lagos BRT to evaluate its effectiveness. The research employed a case study approach with quantitative analysis methods to explore the commuter's perception using dimensions of accessibility, affordability, availability, acceptability and adequacy. A total of 343 questionnaires were sampled using the accidental strategy at bus stops and inside neighborhoods of the study area at a distance of 400m, 800m, and 1200m from BRT bus stops. The results revealed that more than half of the respondents are satisfied with BRT service affordability, accessibility and adequacy. The system is perceived to be satisfactory but needs improvement on bus service frequency, service information and staff attitude.Keywords: Access, Acceptability, Accessibility, Affordability, Adequacy, BRT, Neighborhood, Public transport
User experience of an automated on-demand shuttle service in public transportation
Authors: Avsar Hüseyin , Böhm Michael , Dreßler Annika , Fischer Markus , Steinberger Ulrike
Published: June 2022

Autonomously driving shuttles with electric drive are envisioned to play a complementary role in public transportation in the near future. These vehicles may be used in scenarios where the use of full-sized busses is not technically feasible or economically viable. The compact size of automated shuttles offers the opportunity to operate in narrow streets, to connect suburban areas and to supply on-demand first and last mile services. The integration of an on-demand shuttle service into public transportation was tested and evaluated in a real-world trial in Hamburg-Bergedorf (Germany). A survey covering a large variety of aspects of user experience was created and distributed among users. Overall, the passengers were satisfied with the on-demand shuttle service and indicated that they could imagine to use such a service in the future. The field trial provided valuable insights and revealed the development potential of on-demand shuttle services in public transportation, motivating to continue research in this area.
Mobility for everyone - a matrix-based approach to ensure accessibility of public transport
Authors: Grippenkoven Jan , König Alexandra
Published: June 2022

The target group of public transport is the general public. Public transport vehicles are the tools that are supposed to meet the mobility needs of a multifaceted population. A central difficulty for transport companies is to ensure accessibility for users with physical or cognitive restrictions. Disabled people, senior citizens and children are examples of groups that face a variety of challenges when they intend to use public transport. In this work a method to identify mobility barriers in a structured and replicable way is described. This method is based on two-dimensional matrices that relate detailed steps and subtasks of a passenger within his or her travel chain to functional components of health, based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) as described by the World Health Organization (WHO) (REHADAT, 2022). This matrix offers a systematic approach to understand and analyze the impact of various sets of restrictions on the accessibility and usability of defined modes of public transport.
Global Changes to Driver Behavior Amid COVID-19
Authors: Samuel Siby , Murzello Yovela
Published: June 2022

Road safety has remained a primary issue worldwide since the advent of automobiles. Significant advances have been made over the past several decades that have led to substantial improvements in safety. These advances include changes to the infrastructure, improvements to automobiles including ambient interfaces, connected and automated technology, and the availability of advanced cognitive training interventions. However, the recent spread of COVID-19 and subsequent social distancing measures, including travel bans and partial/complete lockdowns worldwide, has caused a dynamic shift in driver behavior, particularly those elements of behavior most associated with safety in general and crashes in specific. The current article aims to identify the critical changes to safe driver behavior in the post-COVID-19 era, reflect upon the behavioral factors driving this change, and suggest potential countermeasures to mitigate the unexpected change in driver behavior. The current review identified three crucial characteristics of post-pandemic driver behavior consisting of two negative trends, including 1) an increase in speeding behaviors, and 2) a greater propensity for distracted driving, and one positive trend 3) a reduction in congestion. A recent literature review shows that critical behavior changes include increased excessive speeding accompanied by a reduction in congestion. Further, distracted driving incidents are rising globally, while road crashes and mobility have declined. A preliminary analysis was conducted on open traffic data available from various locations. In Ontario, the number of speeding tickets issued from July 2020 to June 2021 was more than double the number of tickets issued in 2019. Additionally, an analysis of traffic tickets issued in New York State showed an increase in violations involving mobile phones and portable electronic devices in driving during the lockdown period in 2020. This unexpected shift in driver behavior necessitates the exploration of countermeasures that promote safer driver behavior. A discussion is presented along with future steps to tackle the negative trends in driver performance. The findings may have potential implications for policymakers, researchers, and the public.
Understanding drivers' trust after software malfunctions and cyber intrusions of digital displays in an automated car
Authors: Payre William , Perellomarch Jaume , Sabaliauskaite Giedre , Jadidbonab Hesamaldin , Shaikh Siraj , Nguyen Hoang , Birrell Stewart
Published: June 2022

The aim of this paper is to examine the effect of explicit (i.e., ransomware) and silent (i.e., no turn signals) automation failures on drivers’ reported levels of trust and perception of risk. In a driving simulator study, 38 participants rode in a conditionally automated vehicle in built-up areas and motorways. They all experienced both failures. Not only levels of trust decreased after experiencing the failures, especially after the explicit one, but also some of the scores were low. This could mean cyber-attacks lead to distrust in automated driving, rather than merely decreasing levels of trust. Participants also seemed to differentiate connected driving from automated driving in terms of perception of risk. These results are discussed in the context of cyber intrusions as well as long- and short-term trust.
The interplay of personality traits with drivers’ gap acceptance
Authors: Hensch Ann-Christin , Beggiato Matthias , Mandl Sarah , Strobel Anja , Krems Josef
Published: June 2022

To support road safety and user acceptance, the interaction capabilities of automated vehicles (AVs) need to be intuitive and transparent. Therefore, established interaction capabilities of manual drivers need to be implemented in AVs. In manual driving, accepted time gaps (gap acceptance, GA) are frequently applied to coordinate interactions between traffic participants. Various driver characteristics, such as age, were shown to influence GA. However, little research considered the influence of driver personality traits on GA. Therefore, the current online study investigated the effect of drivers’ sensation seeking and big five personality traits (i.e., agreeableness, extraversion, conscientiousness, openness, and neuroticism) on GA. The applied video material displayed an intersection scenario with approaching interaction partners encountering from the left of the drivers’ perspective. A total of 121 participants contributed to the study. The findings showed a significant effect for participants’ sensation seeking on GA. Participants scoring higher in sensation seeking accepted smaller time gaps resulting in riskier decisions for the turning maneuvers than participants scoring lower in sensation seeking. Moreover, the results revealed a significant difference in GA regarding participants’ agreeableness. Participants scoring higher in agreeableness indicated larger time gaps to initiate turning maneuvers (i.e., more cooperative interactions) than participants scoring lower in agreeableness. There was no effect for extraversion, conscientiousness, openness, and neuroticism on GA. To support the user acceptance of automated driving functions, differences in driving style preferences related to personal characteristics should be considered in AVs (e.g., by offering selectable driving style profiles).
Attention and action preparation during lane change maneuvers: The role of irrelevant information
Authors: Rajendra Sharma Nikita , Prakash Kushvah Jai , Rinkenauer Gerhard
Published: June 2022

Safe driving behaviour during lane change is the function of selecting and processing task relevant cues from the ongoing driving environment; enabling the goal-directed preparatory process. Such preparatory information typically facilitates reaction time to the anticipated event. However, it is unclear how the additional information other than task specific cues from the driving environment act on preparatory processes while driving a car. We implemented a pre-cue paradigm in a simulated lane change task (LCT) to answer this question. In contrast to the standard paradigm, additional information was presented either just before the preparatory stimulus (pre-cue) or the target stimulus (pre-target) that was either congruent, incongruent, or neutral to the lane change direction. Reaction time and amplitudes of steering out and in angles (A1 and A2) were measured as dependent variables. Results showed that reaction time and steering in amplitude A2 were increased when the additional information was presented before the final target for intended action and similarly when the additional information presented in the same lane changed direction (congruent). Later one accounts for contingent attentional capture. To accommodate the entire pattern of results observed in the study, we tentatively suggest that any information which is not relevant for the intended action have considerable influence on attention and action preparation on the basis of the temporal and visuo-spatial positioning. A strong effect is found especially at the time of the final determination of the upcoming driving manoeuvre.
Measurement and Analysis of Vibration Transmissibility through Tractor Seat
Authors: Singh Amandeep , Samuel Siby , Singh Ishbir , Singh Jagmeet , Kumar Dhabi Yash , Prakash Chander
Published: June 2022

Tractor drivers often exposed to high-amplitude and low frequency vibrations that could impact the ride comfort. Tractor-terrain interaction emits vibrations that transmitted to the driver’s body through the seat-pan, mainly. In present study, the vibration transmissibility response (i.e. from the seat base to seat pan location) has been evaluated using Finite Element Method (FEM). Three dimensional model of the tractor seat was designed by considering the various seat elements (i.e. frame, sub-frame, cushion, Swing-arm, spring, damper, and roller) and their material properties (i.e. Density, Young’s modulus, Poisson’s Ratio) in SoildWorks 2014. Three different types of seat suspension systems of varying spring stiffness (0.3 kg/mm; 0.55 kg/mm; and 0.7 kg/mm) with damping coefficient of 1465.9 Ns/m has been considered to analyze transmissibility response. Seat cushion of Polyurethane (PU) light foam material with thickness of 54 mm; density of 68 kg/m³, seat backrest inclination of 12º with cushion thickness of 45 mm has been set uniform throughout the investigation. Vibration transmissibility responses were analyzed within the frequency range of 0-20 Hz at 0.5 m/s2 along the vertical direction. Tractor seat found to exhibit maximum transmissibility between 2 to 6 Hz frequency ranges. In addition, the seat suspension with spring stiffness of 0.55 kg/mm showed approximately 16% minimum vibration transmissibility compared to other suspension systems. In conclusion, the dominant frequency ranges found in the vicinity of natural frequency of various human body parts that may impact the ride comfort; and the spring stiffness has considerable effect on the vibration transmissibility.
Semi-Autonomous Vehicle Crashes: An Exploration of Contributing Factors
Authors: C Mersinger Molly , Chaparro Alex
Published: June 2022

Advancements in semi-autonomous vehicles (SAVs) are amongst the most popular topics in transportation. Proponents of SAVs cite the potential for reducing crashes, roadway congestion, stressful commutes, and increasing independence for persons with disabilities. This enthusiasm is however tempered by crashes involving SAVs. Articles in the popular press cite limitations of the technology, however, crashes rarely have a single cause, and it is important to consider other possible factors. This paper explores the influence of several factors including how SAVs change the responsibility of the driver from operator to supervisor and why drivers are poorly equipped for this supervisory function. We discuss how the opacity of the vehicle’s operation, intentions, and internal states make it difficult for the operators to develop mental models of the systems that enable them to anticipate the automations’ actions. Drivers may instead rely on anthropomorphic reasoning to predict the system’s actions by evaluating how they would respond in a given situation. We explain why anthropomorphisms are problematic and, in some cases, increase crash risk. Finally, we review why drivers operate SAVs in violation of the Operational Design Domain limitations and the contributory role of drivers’ assumptions of the capabilities of SAV technology.
The use of Automated Traffic Enforcement methods by Abu Dhabi Police
Authors: Al Eisaei Mohammed , Al Harthi Saif , Alghafli Abdulla , Al Zaidy Ahmed
Published: June 2022

The paper examines the use of three different automated traffic enforcement projects by Abu Dhabi Police, and their impact on traffic safety performance in terms of the number of traffic incidents and their resulting injuries. Dynamic speed management during adverse weather conditions, smart heavy vehicle management and automated tailgating enforcement were analyzed by taking into consideration the different traffic metrics associated with each project. All three enforcement systems proved to have positive results in terms of the number of traffic incidents and the injuries resulting from them.
PersonalAIzation - Exploring concepts and guidelines for AI-driven personalization of in-car HMIs in fully automated vehicles
Authors: Madapusi Sundar Shrivaas , Bopp-Bertenbreiter Valeria , Ziegler Daniel , Kanth Kosuru Ravi , Knecht Christian , Pfleging Bastian , Diederichs Frederik , Widlroither Harald
Published: June 2022

The role of the driver changes to that of a passenger in autonomous cars. Thus, the vehicle interior transforms from a cockpit into a multimedia station and workspace. This work explores concepts for Artificial Intelligence (AI) to provide a personalized user experience for the passengers in the form of Contextual Personalized Shortcuts and Personalized Services in the infotainment system. The two use cases were iteratively developed based on literature research and surveys. We evaluated AI- Personalized Services and compared AI-generated to the manually configurable shortcuts. AttrakDiff (Hassenzahl et al., 2003) and Car Technology Acceptance Model (CTAM; Osswald et al., 2012) were used to evaluate UX and user acceptance. The AI-Personalized interface obtained positive scores and reactions in the user testing and shows potential. Based on the insight from the user studies and literature review, we present and human-AI interaction guidelines to build effective AI-personalized HMIs.
To stop, or not to stop, that it the dilemma: evaluating the effects of safety countermeasures at signalized intersections during the yellow phase
Authors: Calvi Alessandro , D'Amico Fabrizio , Ferrante Chiara , Petrella Claudio
Published: June 2022

At the onset of the yellow phase of signalized intersections, the approaching drivers may hesitate to decide to go or stop due to the dilemma zone (DZ). The drivers who decide to pass through the intersection might occur in red light violations and right-angle crashes, while some others might stop suddenly and prematurely with the subsequent risk of rear-end collisions. This study is aimed at analyzing the driver's behavior at the onset of the yellow signal, and identifying the most effective safety countermeasure for the resolution of the dilemma zone in order to help drivers in their stop/go decisions and reduce the risk of crashes. To achieve this objective, a driving simulator study was carried out and the effects of the following countermeasures were tested on a signalized intersection of an urban scenario: i) Green Signal Countdown Timers GSCT (C1); ii) newly developed horizontal marking and vertical warning sign (C2); iii) an in-vehicle advanced driving assistance system based on augmented reality and connected vehicle technologies (C3). The results revealed that the most effective countermeasure was C3 which provided the drivers with prompt and personalized suggestions based on their actual speed; in fact, a major reduction of Red Light Running (RLR) and length of the dilemma zone were recorded. C2 resulted in a significant reduction of the dilemma zone with the greatest consistency in driver decision-making behaviors. Finally, using C1 it was observed an unnecessary increase in early stopping rates with a reduction of the intersection efficiency.
(Don’t) Talk to Me! Application of the Kano Method for Speech Outputs in Conditionally Automated Driving
Authors: Albers Deike , Grabbe Niklas , Forster Yannick , Naujoks Frederik , Keinath Andreas , Bengler Klaus
Published: June 2022

Conditionally automated driving (L3) implies repeated transitions of the driving responsibility between the human operator and the automated driving system. This research examines users’ attitudes towards speech outputs as potential features for human-machine interfaces for L3 automated driving. The Kano method is applied to identify scenarios where users prefer speech outputs. After a test drive with an L3 automated vehicle, N = 42 drivers take part in a survey on speech outputs in different scenarios. The results identify users’ preferences for speech outputs in critical situations. In non-critical application areas, the findings of the Kano method and further comments show a large variance among participants. Customization is desired for the design of speech outputs - including the way of addressing the human operator. Future research should focus on the development of user preferences for speech outputs in long-term studies and the identification of user groups.
Interactive merging behavior in a coupled driving simulator: Experimental framework and case study
Authors: Siebinga Olger , Zgonnikov Arkady , Abbink David
Published: June 2022

Human highway-merging behavior is an important aspect when developing autonomous vehicles (AVs) that can safely and successfully interact with other road users. To design safe and acceptable human-AV interactions, the underlying mechanisms in human-human interactive behavior need to be understood. Exposing and understanding these mechanisms can be done using controlled driving simulator experiments. However, until now, such human-factors merging experiments have focused on aspects of the behavior of a single driver (e.g., gap acceptance) instead of on the dynamics of the interaction. Furthermore, existing experimental scenarios and data analysis tools (i.e., concepts like time-to-collision) are insufficient to analyze human-human interactive merging behavior. To help facilitate human-factors research on merging interactions, we propose an experimental framework consisting of a general simplified merging scenario and a set of three analysis tools: (1) a visual representation that captures the combined behavior of two participants and the safety margins they maintain in a single plot; (2) a signal (over time) that describes the level of conflict; and (3) a metric that describes the amount of time that was required to solve the merging conflict, called the conflict resolution time. In a case study with 18 participants, we used the proposed framework and analysis tools in a top-down view driving simulator where two human participants can interact. The results show that the proposed scenario can expose diverse behaviors for different conditions. We demonstrate that our novel visual representation, conflict resolution time, and conflict signal are valuable tools when comparing human behavior between conditions. Therefore, with its simplified merging scenario and analysis tools, the proposed experimental framework can be a valuable asset when developing driver models that describe interactive merging behavior and when designing AVs that interact with humans.
Evaluation of a User-adaptive Light-based Interior Concept for Supporting Mobile Office Work during Highly Automated Driving
Authors: Walocha Fabian , Phuong Nguyen Hoai , Drewitz Uwe , Arne Ihme Klas
Published: June 2022

Automated driving promises that users can devote their travel time to activities like relaxing or mobile office (MO) work. We present an interior light concept for supporting MO work and evaluate it in a driving simulator study with participants. A vehicle mock-up was equipped as MO including light elements for focus and ambient illumination. Based on these, an adaptive (i.e. adapting to user activities) and an adaptable (i.e. could be changed by user according to preference) light set-up were created and compared to a baseline version. Regarding user experience, the adaptive variant was rated best on hedonic aspects, while the adaptable variant scored highest on pragmatic facets. In addition, the adaptable set-up was ranked best on preference before adaptive and baseline. This suggest that adaption of the interior light to non-driving related activities improves user experience. Future studies should evaluate combinations of the adaptive and the adaptive variants tested here.
User-Friendly Embedding of Vehicle Fast Charging in Primary Vehicle Use with Persona Models
Authors: Tsolakidis Lampros , Mueller Alexander , Buck Simon , Schmiel Fabian
Published: June 2022

In addition to the reduction of charging times, the optimization of the charging process and its integration into the primary vehicle use is a central approach to minimize the loss of comfort for the user. In a first step, design-critical vehicle users were identified and modelled in typical user scenarios. Then, on this basis and taking into account an analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of fast-charging technology currently available on the market, the requirements definition for the development of a system for "user-friendly support in the planning of a transport task for EVs" is carried out. The focus will be on the development of a multi input device operating system that is based on a different degree of connec-tivity and automation depending on the different user types. The focus of the evaluation lies in the discussion of the correlation between the degree of connec-tivity and automation and the user types. Systematically derived operating con-cepts are evaluated in the context of subject studies.
Comparison and Evaluation of Visual and Auditory Signals According to Different Levels of Information for Multimodal eHMI Design
Authors: Lim Dokshin , Geun Ahn Seong
Published: June 2022

Autonomous vehicles are rapidly evolving, but it is obvious that they need to be partially fused and adapted to the current road conditions. In this process, the newly proposed eHMI to replace human drivers presents various possibilities beyond simple communication. In this study, we confirmed that eHMI contributes to road safety and conducted a comparison and evaluation of complex combinations of visual and auditory signals. As a scenario for the experiment, a pedestrian accident with the driver’s limited view was set. This was produced in a 360-degree VR video so that participants could be more immersed in the risk of accident situations and eHMI signals. Participants conducted paired comparison, evaluations of intuitiveness and warning, and open discussion was also recorded in the process. Rather than providing an excessive amount of information via both auditory and visual channels, a combination of visual and auditory signals that complemented each other performed better from the pedestrians’ point of view.
An investigation into design engineering aspects of a shared autonomous micro vehicle concept
Authors: Manoeva Devina , Salzer Sigrid , Schmidt Stephan
Published: June 2022

Future transport will require fundamental changes if we are to tackle the climate crisis efficiently. Autonomous vehicles could play a crucial role as alternatives for private cars without hindering basic individual transport needs. That is especially true for the first and last mile, which is not covered by the public transport network. The scientific project AuRa (“Autonomes Rad”, engl. autonomous bicycle) comes in here. It develops a use case in which an electrified three-wheeled cargo bike will become an on-demand, shared autonomous vehicle for the city. The present work in progress focuses on the development of a user-centered design for such a vehicle. Recently, there has been a growing interest to illustrate the potential early involvement of future users can have on the successful introduction of new products. A better understanding of user needs, behavior, and expectations could inform de-signers and enable them to develop products that better correspond with the true needs of users. For the investigation into design engineering aspects of the future concept, a qualitative method was selected. A series of moderated discussions (focus groups) were conducted with potential users. The main goal was to investigate features regarding safety, comfort, personalization, and interaction, which enable comfortable usage for the user and might increase the acceptance of the vehicle. The results were used to inform engineering designers and support the further development of the next prototype of the autonomous cargo bike.
Advanced Air Mobility: Cabin of the Future Rescue Helicopters
Authors: Moerland-Masic Ivana , Reimer Fabian , Weiand Peter , Weber Thomas , Bock Thomas-Mathias , Meller Frank , Nagel Bjoern
Published: June 2022

In the summer of 2019, the Bertelsmann-Foundation caused quite some commotion in the medical world in Germany. Their study on the density of the hospitals and clinics in Germany showed that the current amount of 1900 could be reduced to 600. Even if it was considered too extreme, it did stir a change. There is a plan to gradually reduce the number of hospitals down to 1200, making the hospitals and clinics better equipped to treat a broad variety of medical issues. This has as a direct consequence that those hospitals will not be equally accessible for the entire population. People living in rural areas might end up having more than 30 minutes journey to the nearest hospital, in best case scenario when the traffic is light. As the current primary rescue helicopters are not equipped for the near future missions, there is a need for an air vehicle that will cover the requirements posed by as well the changes in the medical system as the patients.On the other side, the cities are growing bigger, causing traffic density to increase as well. Time that an ambulance needs to reach the place of medical emergency varies per city, and steadily increases over the years, due to the ever-growing traffic. Current Medical Personnel Deployment (aerial) Vehicle are off the shelf smaller helicopters, often still too big for its intended purpose. In January 2020, a new project within German Aerospace Center has started, bearing the name Chaser, as a means of answering to above challenge. Its goal is developing two different aerial vehicles with a bespoke cabin design. As the cabin is an integral part of the vehicles, its design is considered equally important to other components and will be developed parallel to the vehicle development. In order to ensure that the cabin is well fitting the needs of its users, a user centered approach will be applied according to the Design Thinking Method. There are three distinctive sorts of users in this case: medical personnel, vehicle operators and the patients. The current and future needs and desires of all three groups shall be considered through means of co-design, a method that will provide an insight in what users actually need. Considering the complexity of the vehicle, a close cooperation with other design disciplines, such as flight performance, structures and aerodynamics is required. This paper will show the mission definition of the two vehicles, the method used to gather and analyze the required data, the trend analysis as well as forth flowing requirements. The results of the co-design workshop series, expert in-depth interviews and user journey maps will be shown, as well as an example of possible design outcome. To wrap up, an outlook into the future project work will be depicted, including the conceptual design solutions for the posed challenges.
Early Callsign Highlighting using Automatic Speech Recognition to Reduce Air Traffic Controller Workload
Authors: Shetty Shruthi , Helmke Hartmut , Kleinert Matthias , Ohneiser Oliver
Published: June 2022

The primary task of an air traffic controller (ATCo) is to issue instructions to pi-lots. However, the first verbal communication contact is often initiated by the pi-lot. Hence, the ATCo needs to search for the aircraft radar label that corresponds to the callsign uttered by the pilot. Therefore, it would be useful to have a control-ler assistance system, which recognizes and highlights the spoken callsign in the ATCo display as early as possible, directly from the speech data. Therefore, we propose to use an automatic speech recognition (ASR) system to first obtain the speech-to-text transcription, followed by extracting the spoken callsign from the transcription. As a high performance in callsign recognition is required, we use surveillance data, which significantly reduces callsign recognition error rates. When using ASR transcriptions for ATCo utterances of Isavia data (HAAWAII project ), we initially obtain a callsign recognition error rate of 6.2%, which im-proves to 2.8% when surveillance data information is used.For the ATC operational speech data obtained from NATS air navigation service provider for London approach area, currently we obtain a callsign recognition rate of 93.8% for both ATCo and pilot utterances on automatic transcriptions which are generated by an ASR system with a word error rate of 5.1%. However, when surveillance data is not used, the callsign recognition rate drops significantly to 82.7%, indicating the importance of using surveillance data while recognizing callsigns. Once the callsign is spoken, we are able to recognize it within a second, which would be of great value to ATCos especially in situations of high traffic constituting high workload.
Pilot's Visual Attention Allocation When Taking Risk in Flight Simulator
Authors: Hong Ruiyuan , Qu Kai , Gao Shan , Wang Lei
Published: June 2022

Pilots play a key role in the flight deck and their visual attention allocations also strongly affect their flight risk-taking behaviors. This study aims to investigate the pilot’s patterns of visual attention allocation during an approach with low visibility. A total of 20 professional airline pilots were recruited to conduct an approaching task on a B737-800 flight simulator with high fidelity, and 19 of them provided valid data. We collected their eye movement data during the task. Meanwhile, according to their risk-taking behaviors (go around or land), they were divided into a safe group or risky group. Results showed that the distribution of visual attention was related to the pilot’s visual areas of interest (AOIs), but the risk-taking behaviors were not affected by the fixation parameters. Our findings provide empirical insights about pilots’ visual attention allocation during approach and suggestions for optimizing the design of the instrument in the cockpit.