Aligning driver and automation: a layered framework of fitness, expectations, and intentions

Human-automation breakdowns in automated driving often stem from mismatches between what the driver and the automation can do, expect, and intend. This paper addresses these mismatches with a layered framework that describes the interaction between the driver and vehicle automation using layers associated with fitness, expectation, and intention. The Driver-Automation Alignment framework emphasizes shared control given driver and automation fitness while also aligning the expectations and intentions. It recognizes the crucial role of the Human-Machine Interface and Interaction (HMII) in mitigating mismatches across these layers. A good HMII design considers bidirectional, multimodal information flow between the driver and automation to help align fitness, expectation, and intention. Six driving situations are presented to showcase potential mismatches that can be explained using the Driver-Automation Alignment framework. This paper demonstrates how a structured approach for examining human-automation interaction in automated vehicles can support the design of effective HMIIs that enhance the safe and efficient use of vehicle automation.