Applying participatory design to symbols for SAE level 2 automated driving systems

Perrier, Mickaël J. R.; Louw, Tyron; Gonçalves, Rafael C.; Carsten, Oliver · 2019 · Crossref

DOI: 10.1145/3349263.3351512

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Summary

This study addresses the lack of standardized, intuitive symbols for SAE Level 2 automated driving systems, specifically Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Centring Assist (LCA). Current automakers often diverge from ISO standards or repurpose symbols from other systems, creating potential confusion and safety risks. To develop user-centered design recommendations, the authors conducted a participatory design workshop involving seven drivers (six British males, one Australian female) to ideate and evaluate symbols for these assistance features. The methodology involved three phases: ideation, review, and scoring. Participants first sketched symbols for ACC and LCA based on written descriptions of the systems. They then reviewed existing symbols from various manufacturers (extracted from owner manuals and videos) and additional concepts designed by the researchers. Finally, participants scored the symbols for understandability and selected their preferred designs. The study analyzed the themes emerging from participant sketches and their feedback on existing icons. Key findings revealed that drivers preferred a driver-centric view over a system-centric one. For ACC, participants emphasized the importance of representing headway distance and set speed, often using visual cues like lead cars or speedometers. They favored descriptive symbols that illustrated the system's operation (e.g., movement towards a lead car) over abstract representations. For LCA, crucial elements included continuous lines to indicate lane boundaries, steering wheels, and hands off the wheel to signify reduced driver responsibility. Participants strongly disfavoured ambiguous symbols, such as those resembling traffic signs or failing to clearly depict distance. Grey hands were preferred over solid or absent hands to illustrate the passive role of the driver while maintaining readiness. The significance of this work lies in its contribution to the development of guidelines for Driver-Vehicle Interfaces (DVI) in automated vehicles. The study suggests that symbols should reflect the context of the driving task and the specific assistance provided, rather than the internal mechanics of the system. By focusing on relatable visual cues—such as speed, distance, and interface redundancy—designers can create more intuitive interfaces. The authors conclude that parameters like headway distance could be displayed transiently or embedded in automation displays to reduce cognitive load, offering a pathway for future research into attention and information processing in automated driving contexts.

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Topics

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• ehmi external hmi
• automation
• odd communication
• control interfaces
• hands on hands off engagement
• automation surprise

Information type

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• Applied Guidance: design guidelines
• Methodological Resource: tool software
• Theoretical Contribution: conceptual framework