Will AI Replace Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators?

Patrol assigned track sections so that damaged or broken track can be located and reported.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Repair or adjust track switches, using wrenches and replacement parts.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Weld sections of track together, such as switch points and frogs.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Observe leveling indicator arms to verify levelness and alignment of tracks.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Operate single- or multiple-head spike driving machines to drive spikes into ties and secure rails.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Operate track wrenches to tighten or loosen bolts at joints that hold ends of rails together.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Cut rails to specified lengths, using rail saws.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Lubricate machines, change oil, or fill hydraulic reservoirs to specified levels.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Drill holes through rails, tie plates, or fishplates for insertion of bolts or spikes, using power drills.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Clean tracks or clear ice or snow from tracks or switch boxes.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Clean, grade, or level ballast on railroad tracks.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Raise rails, using hydraulic jacks, to allow for tie removal and replacement.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Adjust controls of machines that spread, shape, raise, level, or align track, according to specifications.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Dress and reshape worn or damaged railroad switch points or frogs, using portable power grinders.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Clean or make minor repairs to machines or equipment.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Grind ends of new or worn rails to attain smooth joints, using portable grinders.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Operate single- or multiple-head spike pullers to pull old spikes from ties.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

String and attach wire-guidelines machine to rails so that tracks or rails can be aligned or leveled.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Engage mechanisms that lay tracks or rails to specified gauges.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Drive graders, tamping machines, brooms, or ballast spreading machines to redistribute gravel or ballast between rails.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Drive vehicles that automatically move and lay tracks or rails over sections of track to be constructed, repaired, or maintained.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Turn wheels of machines, using lever controls, to adjust guidelines for track alignments or grades, following specifications.

Complex problem-solving, strategic leadership, or high-empathy task requiring human judgment.

Push controls to close grasping devices on track or rail sections so that they can be raised or moved.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Operate tie-adzing machines to cut ties and permit insertion of fishplates that hold rails.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Paint railroad signs, such as speed limits or gate-crossing warnings.

Complex problem-solving, strategic leadership, or high-empathy task requiring human judgment.

Spray ties, fishplates, or joints with oil to protect them from weathering.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.