The train driver completed his journey to the station and climbed down from the train to get a cup of coffee.Suddenly,the train started on its own to the garage for servicing.Not to worry; programming of trains to move automatically from stations to railway garages is a practice that has actually been in place for over 25 years,particularly in the fully automated urban rail network.
The next big stage,the evolution from automatic to truly autonomous (自主的)trains,is already here.It willtake train autonomy to a new level,meaning that the next generation of trains will be able to locate themselves in their environment and interact with other train traffic without human assistance.They will have the ability to detect and manage on their own all elements of their environment,operated by a connected traffic management system.
The shift toward train autonomy is speeding up due to digitalization.Digital technologies include artificial intelligence,big data,connectivity—such as the intermet of things connecting trains to intelligent railway switches—and built-in information secerity Collectively,they will enable the train to achieve true autonomy for safe and efficient operations.With these digital technologies,Rail Management Systems can automatically set routes,visualize the condition of the railway network in real time,optimize(优化)resoufces,ard calculate forecasts based on actual data.In addition,Driver Advisory Systems provide a continuous flow of comprehensive information to enable drivers to make safe decisions.
Beyond the clear benefits for rail operators and passengers,autonomous trains will bring significant benefits to society.That is because more efficient traffic management will mean increased train frequency and improved services in crowded areas.With more than 55 per cent of the world's population in cities today—and with nearly 70 per cent projected by 2050,addressing urban transport issues is critical.
