VEHICLE CONTROL FOR AUTOMATED VEHICLES

A method of operating an autonomous vehicle is disclosed. An instruction is received at a human machine interface to select between a first mode of operation of the vehicle and a second mode of operation of the vehicle. The human machine interface includes a display and a convertible interface. The convertible interface includes a touch-sensitive surface and is connected to a universal joint. In the first mode of operation, the convertible interface is moved to a first position with respect to the human machine interface and receives a command from an operator via a gesture at the touch-sensitive surface. In the second mode of operation, the convertible interface is moved to a second position and receives the command from the operator through a motion of the touch-sensitive surface that rotates the universal joint. The command can also be entered at a remote communication device and communicated to the autonomous vehicle.