Driver Support and Hazard Detection in Modern Tram and Metro Systems

This presentation showcases a dual-system innovation in autonomous urban rail operations: an optimised Driver Advisory System (DAS) and a real-time Intelligent Obstacle Detection System (IODS). Field-tested across Edinburgh Trams, Nottingham NET, and Coventry VLR, the systems have demonstrated up to 17% energy savings, improvements in driver consistency and operation safety. IODS, built with LiDAR and camera fusion, offers reliable hazard alerts under complex conditions. When combined, these systems enhance both energy efficiency and operational safety. The session will present deployment results, driver acceptance data, and implications for future digital railway transitions worldwide.

Presented by Dr Ning Zhao, CEng, FHEA, PhD - Assistant Professor in Railway Systems Engineering, Birmingham Centre for Railway Research and Education, Electronic, Electrical and System Engineering, University of Birmingham.

This will be an online only presentation only via GotoMeeting.

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