Automatic train operation system for the high speed Shinkansen train

In train operation over 300 km/h, drivers are supposed to operate the handle for acceleration or deceleration quite often due to speed restriction at the curve. To ensure on-schedule operation and lighten the burden imposed on drivers under high speed operation, we developed the automatic train operation system for the Shinkansen train. This system automatically controls the speed to follow the target speed of operation as well as obey Automatic Train Control (ATC). The target speed is set by taking account of the ATC restriction, on-schedule running, and energy-efficient operation. The system was applied to running tests using a series E2 Shinkansen train from Morioka to Hachinohe, about 100 km, on Tohoku Shinkansen line. The test results tell that the accuracy of on-schedule operation is 4 s longer than the simulated running time, and the accuracy of following the target speed is within 2 km/h at the maximum speed of 320 km/h. We conclude that the system performance is satisfactory for the secure speed control and on-schedule operation.