Exploration into the Needs and Requirements of the Remote Driver When Teleoperating the 5G-Enabled Level 4 Automated Vehicle in the Real World—A Case Study of 5G Connected and Automated Logistics

Abstract

Connected and automated vehicles have the potential to deliver significant environmental, safety, economic and social benefits. The key advancement for automated vehicles with higher levels of automation (SAE Level 4 and over) is fail-operational. One possible solution for the failsafe mode of automated vehicles is a 5G-enabled teleoperation system controlled by remote drivers. However, knowledge is missing regarding understanding of the human–machine interaction in teleoperation from the perspective of remote drivers. To address this research gap, this study qualitatively investigated the acceptance, attitudes, needs and requirements of remote drivers when teleoperating a 5G-enabled Level 4 automated vehicle (5G L4 AV) in the real world. The results showed that remote drivers are positive towards the 5G L4 AV. They would like to constantly monitor the driving when they are not controlling the vehicle remotely. Improving their field of vision for driving and enhancing the perception of physical motion feedback are the two key supports required by remote drivers in 5G L4 AVs. The knowledge gained in this study provides new insights into facilitating the design and development of safe, effective and user-friendly teleoperation systems in vehicle automation.

Exploring the role of human-following robots in supporting the mobility and wellbeing of older people

“…A few participants also shared that they would become tired of members of the public asking about the robot after a while (n = 3, 2 males, 1 female). Therefore, it is important for further research to explore any potential measures to address these concerns, for example, future iterations of the robot could implement a security system which could allow the end-users to reach out to a remote operator if needed 52 . Further, the results suggest that some older people would feel self-conscious using the robot in a public environment.…”