The automotive industry knows the many advantages of automatic guided vehicle systems. One study found that nearly 90 percent of all robots are used in a factory setting. In many cases, the AGV has revolutionized how automobiles are manufactured. As technology advances, these robots are working to create the self driving vehicle. Currently, an AGV will need to recharge after nearly eight to twelve hours of use. Innovations in AGV technology are helping to ensure these machines can run for longer amounts of time. The invention of the car that drives itself has long seemed like a mere dream. However, science is working to make the car that drives itself not just a reality but one that aims to make driving safer and easier. In this post, you will learn about different stages of vehicle automation.
Assisted Automation: This level one type of automation still requires a decent amount of human assistance. These systems have humans and machines working together. In a level one automation environment, a person should be ready to have full control. An example of this type of automation is commonly seen in cruise control systems for vehicles. The driver will steer the vehicle while speed is controlled automatically.
Hands off Automation: In this system, a driver is still highly advised to be ready to take control. Automobiles using this level two automation can have steering wheels, pedals, and more controlled by a machine. A lower level of automation likely means the system isn’t perfected. Therefore, human assistance will be vital while using a level two automation system. In many cases, sensors are put in place that automatically detects hazards when a pedestrian enters a certain zone.
Eyes off Automation: The third level of automation is made for cars of the future. Level three automation means a driver can perform other tasks while a vehicle drives itself. For instance, a driver in a level three vehicle can take their eyes off the road entirely. There will be certain situations where a driver may need to intervene. However, the majority of driving is done for you with level three automation.
No Attention Needed Automation: It might seem odd but you will be able to sleep in cars of the future, even if you’re the only passenger. This fourth level of automation means that no attention is needed by the driver. This level of automation works extremely well meaning a driver could listen to music and other activities, all while being safely driven. There are a select few vehicles that are nearing or in this stage of automation. However, there is still no definitive date as to when these vehicles will become mass produced.
Complete Automation: Level five automation is so advanced that a steering wheel is not needed. Hi tech vehicles at this stage will not require any human intervention at all. The difference between level four and five automation are quite small. An example of level five automation would be an entirely robotic vehicle, like an automated taxi service.
In closing, there are several stages of hi tech vehicles to know about. A hi tech auto will be able to drive itself, with varying amounts of human assistance. A system was created to help automobile companies define how automated their offerings are. Low level stages of vehicle automation will need human input. Once you’ve reached eyes off automation, the need for human intervention is nearly non existent. There are still hurdles that automated vehicles face. However, continued vehicle innovations mean that cars of the future is becoming closer to a reality for nearly everyone.
