Evaluation of braking behaviour for train drivers using phase-plane trajectories

Abstract

This study analyses braking behaviour of train drivers and estimates drivers’ mental condition using a train simulator. The velocity deviation recognised by drivers is defined by the difference between the present vehicle velocity and the desired velocity that enables the vehicle to stop at the desired position if the present deceleration is kept constant. Observing the relation between the velocity deviation and the braking operation enables the detection of abnormal driving behaviour. The phase-plane trajectory of the velocity deviation and the brake command with mental workload indicates a large velocity deviation and repetition of the braking operation, while the trajectory without mental workload indicates that both the velocity deviation and the brake command gradually approach the origin of the coordinate axes.