Evaluating train drivers’ performance to inform the development of automatic train operation

Understanding train driver performance can provide valuable insights for the development of automatic train operation systems. This study investigates the visual perception of train drivers under different conditions using driving simulator experiments. The 43 participating train drivers were instructed to drive the train and react to stationary objects on the tracks of varying size and contrast to the background. Two train protection systems (the German intermittent train protection system PZB and the European Train Control System with in-cab signalling ETCS) and on-sight driving were used. The results showed significant effects of size, contrast, and speed on reaction times. The effects of the train protection systems and on-sight driving were inconclusive. The approach presented in this study, along with an understanding of the relative impact of various performance shaping factors can serve as a basis for defining the requirements for ATO systems.