Remote Operator Function Assignment for Autonomous Train Availability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous trains face inefficiencies due to frequent false positive obstacle detections, leading to unnecessary braking, which reduces availability and requires extensive staff training and complex remote control systems.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for autonomous vehicles that dynamically assigns specific functions to a remote operator, allowing them to handle evacuation tasks while the vehicle maintains control over other critical functions, reducing the need for extensive training and complex workstations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the autonomous train stops frequently to avoid detected obstacles, then safety is improved, but availability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into autonomous vehicle control functions and remote operator functions. The autonomous vehicle handles routine obstacle detection and braking, while the remote operator provides oversight and can override decisions. This segmentation allows the system to maintain safety through autonomous caution while improving availability by enabling efficient operation when remote operators confirm obstacles are not actual hazards.
2Ease of operation
If a remote control system with full control elements is provided, then operational control is improved, but device complexity and personnel requirements deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The remote operator workstation extracts only the essential control functions needed for oversight and override capabilities, rather than providing complete duplicate control elements. The system extracts critical monitoring and intervention functions from the full control system, allowing remote operators to manage emergencies without requiring complex workstation infrastructure for routine operations.
3Reliability
If remote operators are trained as extensively as regular drivers, then operational capability is improved, but personnel requirements and training costs deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The training requirements are applied locally to the specific functions each role performs. Remote operators receive targeted training focused on oversight, monitoring, and emergency override capabilities rather than comprehensive training in all autonomous vehicle operations. This local quality approach ensures operational capability for critical functions while reducing overall personnel training requirements compared to fully qualified driver training.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a computer-implemented method for an autonomous vehicle with a remote operator, comprising the steps of: a. providing a plurality of functions for the autonomous vehicle (S1), wherein the plurality of functions includes at least one role-specific function; b. assigning the at least one role-specific function to the remote operator by a technical system (S2), wherein the remote operator is configured to connect remotely to the technical system; wherein the remote operator is configured to receive the at least one role-specific function remotely from the technical system; wherein the remote operator is configured to execute the at least one role-specific function remotely; and c.Assigning at least one other remaining function from the majority of functions to the autonomous vehicle by the technical system (S3); wherein the autonomous vehicle is configured to execute the at least one other remaining function taking into account at least one condition. The invention further relates to a remote operator and a technical system.