Human Factors evaluation of a tablet based train remote control

Abstract

The project ‘Automated Regional Trains in Lower Saxony (ARTE)’ research Automatic Train Operation (ATO) in today's rail network with existing regional trains. For fallback operation, a simple, mobile train remote control using a tablet computer was developed. Staff can control the vehicle remotely or on site via the tablet user interface and video streams. Hereby, the consequences of a malfunction at the ATO can be compensated, tracks cleared, and passengers transported to the next station. Our research aims to find out whether a mobile device is appropriate for a remote driving task, and we iteratively developed a first prototype. Having presented a preliminary test in a model railway setup at the last HFES Europe meeting, we can now present the results from two field tests for shunting and mainline operation with a real train. In total, 23 persons participated in the test runs which included driving tasks comparable to shunting and long-distance driving on mainlines. Participants were operating remotely via tablet from inside or outside the train. We collected data on driving performance, interaction with and usability/ acceptance of the remote control, workload, and situation awareness and we conducted interviews to assess participants’ information needs and experience in depth.