Analysis of Bus Driver Actions for Development of Automated Bus Passenger Safety System - Bowtie Analysis-

Abstract

One of the key advantages of Level 4 automated buses is the potential for unmanned operation. To achieve this, two essential tasks must be addressed: controlling the bus and ensuring passenger safety. This study focuses specifically on passenger safety and the development of a safety system for automated buses. Initially, we investigated the tasks typically performed by bus drivers by observing their actions from when a passenger boards to when they disembark. For each task, we utilized bowtie analysis, examining them from five perspectives: hazard source (cause), prevention of occurrence, hazard source (consequences), impact mitigation, and harm. Tasks are categorized into three situations: door opening and closing, driving, and when starting. In each situation, every task is analysed using bowtie analysis. This approach results in a visual representation of tasks with identified threats, consequences, mitigations, and preventive measures. We will show a comprehensive explanation of all results and discussions derived from the analysis, utilizing real recorded driver’s data to enhance clarity. The primary challenge in developing the system to manage these tasks instead of relying on a bus driver lies in determining how the system will interact with passengers and the extent to which it can ensure passenger safety through the passenger safety system.

Keywords: Passenger Safety, Automated Vehicles, Social Acceptance

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005240