Insight into User Acceptance and Adoption of Autonomous Systems in Mission Critical Environments

Abstract

With Industry 4.0 the immense progression of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology has introduced new challenges for engineers to effectively design human-automation interaction in autonomous systems that are mission critical. Although various autonomous systems are currently being utilized in mission critical environments, there is limited literature and research on which factors affect the acceptance and adoption of said systems. Understanding which factors are most critical for the human-automation interaction could lead to seamless acceptance and adoption and more effective and less expensive missions. Findings of 47 semi-structured interviews revealed ease of use and system reliability to be significant factors for the acceptance and adoption of autonomous systems independent of the level of automation. Through our findings we expand on the current technology acceptance models by including mission critical factors. Emphasis is given to the discussion and consideration of the human factors and engineering approaches associated with the design of autonomous systems for mission critical environments that are needed to empower tomorrow’s users with effective AI systems technology.