A scientific evaluation of autonomous vehicle user experience on sighted and visually impaired passengers based on FACS (Facial Analysis Coding System) and a user experience questionnaire

• Published in: Journal of transport & health Vol. 19; p. 100906
• Main Authors: Kempapidis, Theofilos, Castle, Claire L., Fairchild, Richard G., Hussain, Syeda F., Cash, Andrew T.G., Gomes, Renata S.M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.12.2020
• Subjects: Accessibility; Autonomous vehicle; Disability; Facial Actions Coding System; Independent mobility; Visual impairment; Disability; Independent mobility; Accessibility; Facial Actions Coding System; Autonomous vehicle; Visual impairment
• ISSN: 2214-1405; 2214-1413
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jth.2020.100906

Significant progress has been made in the development of autonomous vehicles (AV) in recent years, with an increasing number of trials performed to identify how AVs might function within the existing transport modal choices. With this has come increasing recognition of the multiple benefits that AVs might provide for wider society, not least reduced road congestion and pollution, safer travel, and increased fuel efficiency. Removing the need for a dedicated driver means that costs to use AVs services will be lower; in the case of private AV ownership, the requirement for a driving licence is removed. These attributes are highly advantageous for all passengers, but especially for the disabled community, and in the case of the current project, those with visual impairment. The use of AVs may have significant implications for the independence of this group, impacting on feelings of social and psychological well-being. In the current study, 419 people, both VI and sighted, took part in an AV trial (‘Arthur’). Participants' faces (inclusive of guide dogs) were recorded throughout the journey and all participants responded to a questionnaire about their experience during this journey. Recordings were analysed using FACS (Facial Actions Coding System). Results from the questionnaire indicated an overall positive experience for participants, and reduced anxiety from the time prior to the journey to the end of the journey. FACS analysis showed happiness as the predominant emotion expressed by passengers; a smaller number expressed surprise or fear, these were mainly identified early during the journey or as the result of an emergency stop. The results from both data sets demonstrate that for a sighted or VI individual, travel in an AV is largely a positive experience and individuals who have a VI would benefit from AV services in the future. •First exploration of AVs with VI passengers.•Use of FACS (Facial Actions Coding System) and survey data for the exploration of User Experiences.•Positive User Experiences reported, technical and practical challenges identified.