Proposal of an Ergonomic Interface for Supervision and Control of an Automated Shunting Device

In rail freight transport, certain processes require shunting activities to form or dissolve freight trains. In the present form, this requires shunting staff to carry out these physically demanding tasks. In spite of all precautions, accidents at work occur during such activities, which can be accompanied by serious injuries or even death. One approach to prevent such accidents will be the use of automated shunting units and an automatic uncoupler. In this paper the process of an automated system is sketched. It describes the responsibilities relating to the controlling and supervision staff of the process. It is shown how the flow of information between the parties involved can take place. Results of this research show how the proposal of an ergonomic interface for supervision and control of an automated shunting device can be sensibly integrated into the existing operation of marshalling yards. The proposal offers improvement of railway staff safety through reducing dangerous operating procedures and help to reduce the future lack of available staff.