Using Artificial Intelligence Against Leaves on the Line
The latest generation of artificial intelligence is advancing into areas previously reserved for humans. This includes making quick decisions in uncertain situations with multiple factors. Computers used to suffer from a kind of sensory overload in these conditions. This is why self-driving trains have so far been used only in closed systems such as subways and metros.
This is about to change.
The British Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) is looking to artificial intelligence to solve one of the most dynamic problems on British railway tracks: leaves on the line. The AI is to predict a track’s adhesion based on data points and video recordings. It is due to be used for the first time in autumn 2023.
