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How close are we to unmanned mainline freights?

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[quote]QUOTE: Originally posted by TARGUBRIGHT Question, how does a engineer compensate for slack in a train? Example: He powers his loaded coal train up a steep hill and then start's to go down a hill. Is there a meter or gauge somewhere that tells him when to cut power and start applying brake? Or does he go by feel? How do you train a computer to feel slack action? TIM A [/quote] It is a combination of factors. First it's by learning the territory with another experienced engineer. This is often referred to as "Qualifying" or "Qualifying on the Physical Characteristics". This is the process of an engineer riding another engineer's train and learning the territory including not only the grades, but the speeds, curves, mileposts, signals, interlockings, switches, industries and more. To learn this he uses his Employee Timetable, track and grade charts and timetable special instructions coupled with his training and knowledge of how dynamic and airbrakes are used. Second, it's by using the engineer's most important sensory organ, his Butt in the right hand seat and by his experience in running all sorts of different trains from coal trains to auto racks to mixed freight and even passenger trains. Each type of train behaves differently. The engineer also uses his instrumentation to help him including his speedometer, air gauges, dynamic brake indicators (ammeter) and EOTD/HOTD readouts to help him make his decisions. He also reviews his paperwork with his conductor before departure and pays careful attention to the in train placement of different cars and the distribution of loads and empties. A train is a great heavy beast and each behaves quite differently from the other. It is definitely a judgement call. As to how you could get a computer to do that, well, I have my doubts. I've seen many good engineers come from other divisions on seniority bumps and quickly pile up the knuckles on our hills. A computer wouldn't even be that good. LC
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