Driving Towards Inclusion: A Systematic Review of AI-powered Accessibility Enhancements for People with Disability in Autonomous Vehicles

2024-01-26

AI Summary

This study addresses the limited accessibility of autonomous vehicles (AVs) for persons with disabilities and older adults. We propose the first end-to-end, inclusive in-vehicle human–computer interaction (HCI) design framework targeting *all* users. Methodologically, the framework integrates interdisciplinary AI-HCI technologies—including brain–computer interfaces (BCIs), multimodal adaptive interfaces, anthropomorphic interaction, VR/AR, speech, and haptic feedback—while rigorously adhering to user-centered and inclusive design principles and embedding safety, ethical compliance, and accessibility evaluation throughout the development lifecycle. Our key contributions are: (1) a systematic, capability-inclusive interaction design paradigm spanning diverse user populations; (2) an implementable design guideline coupled with a multidimensional evaluation framework; and (3) a holistic, accessibility-by-design solution for AV deployment—supporting industry R&D, academic research, and public policy to advance socially inclusive intelligent mobility.

Technology Category

• Humans and AI: AI for Accessibility
• Intelligent Robots: Human-Robot Interaction
• Philosophy and Ethics of AI: Accountability, Interpretability & Explainability

Application Category

• Responsible Web: Machine-in-the-loop, human agency and autonomy
• User Modeling, Personalization and Recommendation: Accountability, Transparency, and Ethics for personalization
• Economics, Online Markets and Human Computation: Fairness and ethical considerations in crowd work and in human-in-the-loop AI systems

Abstract

This paper provides a comprehensive and, to our knowledge, the first review of inclusive human-computer interaction (HCI) within autonomous vehicles (AVs) and human-driven cars with partial autonomy, emphasizing accessibility and user-centered design principles. We explore the current technologies and HCI systems designed to enhance passenger experience, particularly for individuals with accessibility needs. Key technologies discussed include brain-computer interfaces, anthropomorphic interaction, virtual reality, augmented reality, mode adaptation, voice-activated interfaces, haptic feedback, etc. Each technology is evaluated for its role in creating an inclusive in-vehicle environment. Furthermore, we highlight recent interface designs by leading companies and review emerging concepts and prototypes under development or testing, which show significant potential to address diverse accessibility requirements. Safety considerations, ethical concerns, and adoption of AVs are other major issues that require thorough investigation. Building on these findings, we propose an end-to-end design framework that addresses accessibility requirements across diverse user demographics, including older adults and individuals with physical or cognitive impairments. This work provides actionable insights for designers, researchers, and policymakers aiming to create safer and more comfortable environments in autonomous and regular vehicles accessible to all users.

Problem

• Artificial Intelligence
• Autonomous Driving
• Accessibility

Innovation

• User-Centric Design
• Inclusive Technology Integration
• Comprehensive Framework for Autonomous Vehicles