An experimental analysis of the driver’s attention during train driving

Abstract

The article deals with the experimental monitoring of the driver’s attention during train operation. SMI eye-tracking technology and eye-tracking glasses we used to measure the train driver’s attention. This unique experiment we performed on the Slovak railway (ŽSR) line no. 120 Bratislava - Žilina, in the section Žilina - Púchov. The measurement took place in the spring of 2017, and the passenger train was operated by the ZSSK electric unit series 671. The article analyses in detail the monitoring of the driver’s attention during train operation. We analysed two typical processes during train driver work: driving at the section (without stopping) and driving through the train station (with stopping). Realised analysis can lead to the identification of critical points on the line, to a better understanding of the driver’s way of work and to contribute to increasing railway safety. The unique measurement procedure and the used technology did not affect the safety of the train operation.

Keywords

• eye-tracking measurement
• driver’s attention
• train operation
• railway safety