The International Association of Public Transport (UITP) Observatory of Automated Metros recently released recommendations for the challenges posed by automated metro lines.
The top challenge to fully automated operation (FAO) projects is the high level of systems integration and this requires system complexity. To address this, contractors would have to cover every interface and integration activity at each phase of a project, UITP said.
Another challenge is for nonautomated line operators to install an organizational structure for fully automated lines. The transition would cause workplace disruption and a cultural shift among employees and could require a strain on senior management’s resources and time as well as long negotiations. UITP said operators should use this time to create a more sustainable organization.
The association’s findings were published in a report available to UITP members.
UITP and the Singapore Land Transport Authority will host the Singapore International Transport Congress and Exhibition July 11-13. The exhibition is part of the UITP International Rail Conference.
A session at the exhibition, “Full automatic operation today, autonomous trains tomorrow?,” will tackle the issue of automated metro lines. The session will be opened by Dr. Ahmed Miske El Hadrami, technical director and senior design authority at Thales Transportation, and will feature experts from several companies.