Automatic train operation

For other uses of "ATO", see ATO (disambiguation).
Automated track-bound traffic
Automatic train operation
Lists of automated train systems
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Automatic train operation (ATO) is a method of operating trains automatically where the driver is not required or required for supervision at most.[1] Alternatively, ATO can be defined as a subsystem within the automatic train control, which performs any or all of functions like programmed stopping, speed adjusting, door operation, and similar otherwise assigned to the train operator.[2]

Pictured is a train cab of a Kawasaki–CRRC Sifang T251 train serving the Mass Rapid Transit's Thomson–East Coast Line in Singapore. This line runs under ATO GoA 4, which is automatically controlled without any on-board staff.

The degree of automation is indicated by the Grade of Automation (GoA), up to GoA4 in which the train is automatically controlled without any staff on board.[3] On most systems for lower grades of automation up to GoA2, there is a driver present to mitigate risks associated with failures or emergencies. Driverless automation is primarily used on automated guideway transit systems where it is easier to ensure the safety due to isolated tracks. Fully automated trains for mainline railways are an area of research.[4] The first driverless experiments in the history of train automation date back to 1920s.[5]

  1. ^ "IEC 60050 - International Electrotechnical Vocabulary - Details for IEV number 821-09-01: "automatic train operation"". www.electropedia.org. Retrieved 23 January 2024.
  2. ^ IEEE Standard for Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) Performance and Functional Requirements. doi:10.1109/IEEESTD.2004.95746. ISBN 0-7381-4487-8. Retrieved 28 January 2024.
  3. ^ "Thales and Knorr-Bremse will jointly develop ATO for freight trains". RailTech.com. 4 November 2022. Retrieved 5 March 2023.
  4. ^ "Europe's ERTMS dream enters a new era". International Railway Journal. Retrieved 5 March 2023.
  5. ^ Liu, Hui (2021). Unmanned driving systems for smart trains. Amsterdam. ISBN 9780128228302.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)