There are several risks associated with an Automated Driving Function (ADF) that need to be addressed, particularly those related to interactions with surrounding traffic, both automated and manual. The development of mitigation strategies is only possible once these risks are fully understood. The focus is on ensuring that these risks are comprehended and that mitigation strategies have been contemplated.
This question directly probes whether all ADF-related risks within the Operational Design Domain (ODD) related to surrounding traffic have been considered and identified. The sub-questions aim to assist in analyzing this main question by providing insights into the types of risks that might exist within the ODD. They target specific risk types that could occur within the ODD and stimulate further thoughts on whether the risks have been thoroughly understood. The evident risk of the driver not regaining full situational awareness when control has been transferred is one that will necessitate significant research and validation to ensure it is minimized. The ADF’s ability to respond appropriately in all kinds of mixed traffic scenarios is also a high risk that could impact the safety of the ADF itself and the user’s acceptance and trust in the ADF.
The Hazard Analysis and Risk Assessment (HARA) is a crucial step to ensure that the risks of the ADF within its ODD are fully understood. Through hazard analysis, all potential hazards that could occur during the development, integration, and use of the ADF need to be considered. Through the risk assessment of these hazards, any hazard that poses an unacceptable level of risk requires a mitigating solution. It is recommended that this exercise is conducted at an early stage so that the system design can accommodate the mitigating solutions. The HARA should be maintained throughout the life of the ADF as new hazards are identified.
Additional information regarding this topic is provided by:
- International Transport Forum, “Safer Roads with Automated Driving” (ITF 2018)
Main Question
Are the risks of the ADF operation within its ODD considered?
Sub-Questions
- Are the risks at entry to and exit from the ODD considered?
- Are the risks from infrastructure or other road users considered?
- Are unspecified or unexpected events identified from studies in real traffic?
- Does the HARA consider unspecified or unexpected events?
- Are the function limitations within the ODD considered?
- Is the recording of ADF accident data or disengagements utilised to help identify risks?
- Is there a mechanism for the publication or sharing of disengagements with a third party?
References
- State of California Department of Motor Vehicles (2022) Article 3.7 Testing of Autonomous Vehicles with a Driver, https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/file/adopted-regulatory-text-pdf/ (Accessed: 27 October 2023).