J3265_202211 Naming Methodology for Driving Automation Systems

Since the 1990s, active safety systems—including driver assistance systems—have been deployed in on-road vehicles. As the number and range of functions associated with driver assistance technologies and, now, driving automation systems—including automated driving systems (ADSs)—increase, it is crucial that users understand what they do and how they typically function. Across vehicle manufacturers, very different names are often given to the same basic vehicle technology. In this regard, a survey conducted by the AAA Traffic Safety Foundation (American Automobile Association, 2019) found 20 different names for adaptive cruise control, 19 for lane keeping assistance, and 19 for blind spot warning features; the same report noted that there is often a mismatch between feature names and feature functionality. While each manufacturer may use unique “branding” or “marketing” names for these systems and features, it is important to promote clear communication about them to prevent misunderstanding, confusion, or misuse. Key to this goal is a need to identify standard public-facing names and corresponding basic definitions that employ user-friendly language for these systems and their features. To support this goal, SAE J3265 integrates a complimentary set of test procedures and evaluation methodologies to provide a systematic process for identifying and evaluating standard names and definitions for driving automation system features and for identifying a “user vocabulary” of standardized terms and descriptions for these systems and features.