Introducing Automatic Train Operation to ETCS - What are the driver's responsibilities?

This paper will describe current developments relating to Automatic Train Operation (ATO) as an additional mode of operation within ETCS. ATO has been widely implemented in metro systems since the 1980s, ranging from GoA2... [ view full abstract ]

This paper will describe current developments relating to Automatic Train Operation (ATO) as an additional mode of operation within ETCS. ATO has been widely implemented in metro systems since the 1980s, ranging from GoA2 (Driver attended ATO) to GoA4 (Unattended ATO). As the performance and operational requirements in high capacity areas of the mainline railway network approach those of metros the need for ATO on the mainline railways has increased. ATO will bring increased line capacity, tighter train scheduling in and out of stations and improved energy efficiency. Crucially this brings benefits for the Railway Undertakings and the Infrastructure Managers.
An explanation of the semi-automatic mode GoA2 which will be introduced into the ETCS specifications as part of the next update of the ERTMS Baseline 3 will show how the ATO function will lead to changes in the driver’s tasks. This will include an explanation of the development of a separate ETCS mode for transitioning to ATO that will be different to the existing full supervision (FS) mode. The paper will provide information on how the driver will transition from manual driving to automatic driving and how to disengage ATO to regain manual control of the train either on the move or at standstill.
The paper will also explain what responsibilities the driver will still have when ATO is operating the train automatically and what information the driver will need displayed on the DMI screen; this will be used to explain the driver’s interaction with the DMI during automatic driving.