Mexican Media Brands
SAE Updates Standards for AV Test Drivers
SAE International has unveiled guidelines for human backup drivers during testing of Level 3+ autonomous-driving systems on public roads.
#regulations
Share
SAE International has unveiled guidelines for human backup drivers during testing of Level 3+ autonomous-driving systems on public roads.
The initial SAE J3018 standard for AVs, issued in 2015, defined six levels of autonomy (0-5) and identified base safety guidelines for vehicle testing.
But the standard largely ignored the role of backup drivers, who have come under greater scrutiny after an Uber test car operating in autonomous mode struck and killed a pedestrian last year while the backup driver was watching a television program on her phone.
SAE notes that different skill sets are needed for drivers in early stage prototype cars that require more frequent intervention and those in vehicles with more advanced technologies. While all backup drivers need to be ready to take control of a vehicle as necessary, SAE says those operating early stage prototypes should be trained for emergency handling and evasive driving techniques.
Classroom training should cover driving etiquette, defensive driving, situational awareness and autonomous vehicle technologies, according to SAE. The trade group also recommends testing on simulators, closed tracks and public roads.
Test vehicles should be staffed with two people to better manage workload and keep each other attentive, SAE recommends. This also would allow the backup driver to focus on the road, while the other person can input data or perform other tasks.
The new standard includes guidelines for how long backup drivers should work between breaks and advice about handling other variables that can cause distraction or fatigue.
More information is available HERE.
RELATED CONTENT
-
When Automated Production Turning is the Low-Cost Option
For the right parts, or families of parts, an automated CNC turning cell is simply the least expensive way to produce high-quality parts. Here’s why.
-
Things to Know About Cam Grinding
By James Gaffney, Product Engineer, Precision Grinding and Patrick D. Redington, Manager, Precision Grinding Business Unit, Norton Company (Worcester, MA)
-
Mustang Changes for 2018
On Tuesday Ford unveiled—using the social media channels of actor Dwayne Johnson (this has got to unnerve some of the auto buff book editors)—the 2018 Mustang, which has undergone some modifications: under the hood (the 3.7-liter V6 is giving way to a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four, and a 10-speed automatic is available), on the dash (a 12-inch, all-digital LCD screen is available for the dashboard), at the tires (12 wheel choices), on the chassis (MagneRide damper technology is being offered with the Mustang Performance Package), and on the exterior (three new paint colors). And while on the subject of the exterior, there are some notable changes—a lower, remodeled hood, repositioned hood vents, new upper and lower front grilles, LED front lights, revised LED taillamps, new rear bumper and fascia.
