Animal Interaction with Autonomous Mobility Systems: Designing for Multi-Species Coexistence

TL;DR

This paper explores how autonomous mobility systems interact with animals, highlighting concerns and proposing design and policy directions for multispecies coexistence based on a multi-method study.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive analysis of animal interactions with autonomous systems, emphasizing the need for inclusive design considering non-human perspectives.

Findings

Identified five key areas of concern including physical impact and behavioral effects.

Highlighted ethical, regulatory, and urban disturbance issues affecting animals.

Provided design and policy recommendations for multispecies coexistence.

Abstract

Autonomous mobility systems increasingly operate in environments shared with animals, from urban pets to wildlife. However, their design has largely focused on human interaction, with limited understanding of how non-human species perceive, respond to, or are affected by these systems. Motivated by research in Animal-Computer Interaction (ACI) and more-than-human design, this study investigates animal interactions with autonomous mobility through a multi-method approach combining a scoping review (45 articles), online ethnography (39 YouTube videos and 11 Reddit discussions), and expert interviews (8 participants). Our analysis surfaces five key areas of concern: Physical Impact (e.g., collisions, failures to detect), Behavioural Effects (e.g., avoidance, stress), Accessibility Concerns (particularly for service animals), Ethics and Regulations, and Urban Disturbance. We conclude with design and policy directions aimed at supporting multispecies coexistence in the age of autonomous systems. This work underscores the importance of incorporating non-human perspectives to ensure safer, more inclusive futures for all species.