The atmosphere became tense as an immobile figure loomed on the railroad tracks ahead, as there was no driver at the helm.

However, in mid-May, the pilotless train, which was equipped with an autonomous control system, completed the test in Kokubunji, a western Tokyo neighborhood.

Upon identifying a mannequin that had been placed on the track as “obstacle,” the test train initiated an emergency halt.

The system autonomously determined whether it was safe to recommence operations and began driving the vehicle again after the mannequin was removed.

In mid-May, media representatives were presented with the trial drive of a test vehicle that was equipped with technology developed by the Railway Technical Research Institute in Kokubunji Tokyo.

The institute managed an experimental line on which the train was placed. The front of the train was equipped with a forward-facing monitoring device that consisted of a camera and nine sensors.

It operated on the tracks autonomously during the trial run of a test vehicle that was equipped with sophisticated technology in the demonstration. The on-board system was responsible for controlling a railroad switch and a crossing gate.

The institute has developed an autonomous control system with the objective of reducing labor costs for local railways, as railway companies are rapidly transitioning to automated operations.

The system automatically manages train operations, railroad crossings, and signals in addition to making emergency pauses and resuming service when safety is guaranteed.

Approximately 2040 is the anticipated date of practical implementation for the system, as per the institute.

The autonomous system is comprised of five fundamental technologies, including the ability to detect obstacles on the tracks using cameras and sensors, the ability to summarize information about the tracks, areas along the line, and train cars to ascertain the operational status of the service, and the ability to directly control railroad crossings and switches via radio.

Trains are typically operated by conductors. Station operating rooms or other departments are responsible for managing crossings, switches, and other ground facilities, while control centers oversee train operations.

Should the autonomous control system become a reality, it would alleviate the necessity for station operating rooms and reduce personnel costs in control rooms.

A representative stated, “We anticipate that the labor savings achieved by autonomous operations will yield more significant results for local railway operators with fewer services.”