STPA + ODD(Operational Design Domain)

The primary focus of STPA analysis is autonomous driving systems. Autonomous driving systems are predominantly applied in automobiles, but they are also used in various fields such as aircraft, unmanned drones, trains, and robots. Considering the safety of autonomous driving systems, the Operational Design Domain (ODD) is an essential consideration. Today, I would like to provide an example of how ODD is incorporated into the Control Structure during STPA analysis. While there are numerous ODD considerations, the following nine are commonly addressed:

1. Geographical Area: Defining the specific geographic areas where the autonomous driving system can operate, such as cities, highways, rural areas.
2. Road Types: Specifying the types of roads on which the autonomous driving system can function, including highways, urban roads, residential areas.
3. Weather Conditions: Considering the permissible weather conditions for autonomous driving, such as rain, fog, snow.
4. Driving Situations: Identifying the specific driving situations in which the autonomous driving system can operate, such as parking lots, construction zones, congested traffic.
5. Functional and Performance Constraints: Accounting for any limitations or constraints in terms of functionality and performance, such as speed limits, compliance with traffic rules, driving strategies in certain scenarios.
6. Time of Day: Considering the time periods during which the autonomous driving system can be operational, including daytime, nighttime, or specific time ranges.
7. Traffic Conditions: Factoring in various traffic conditions under which the autonomous driving system can function, such as congested traffic, intersections, restricted zones.
8. Driving Purpose: Considering the purpose or intent of autonomous driving, such as commercial transportation, personal use, long-distance travel.
9. Special Situations: Addressing specific situations that require unique considerations, such as emergency scenarios, rescue missions, or autonomous taxi services.

By incorporating these ODD considerations into the STPA analysis and Control Structure, a comprehensive analysis of the autonomous driving system's safety can be conducted.