Modeling and Development of Operation Guidelines for Leader-Follower Autonomous Truck-Mounted Attenuator Vehicles

TL;DR

This paper develops operational guidelines for autonomous leader-follower truck-mounted attenuator systems to enhance safety and efficiency in highway maintenance tasks, reducing injury risks to workers.

Contribution

It introduces a novel set of rules and instructions specifically designed for autonomous ATMA system operation, addressing safety and decision-making complexities.

Findings

Established comprehensive operation guidelines for ATMA systems.

Demonstrated improved safety protocols for autonomous highway maintenance.

Outlined driver decision-making requirements for system safety.

Abstract

Mobile and slow moving operations, such as striping, sweeping, bridge flushing and pothole patching, are critical for efficient and safe operation of the highway transportation system. A successfully implemented leader follower autonomous truck mounted attenuators system will eliminate all injuries to DOT employees in follow truck provided appropriate Statutory authority. The leader follower system design imposes more requirements to the lead truck drivers in order to ensure a safe and smooth system operation. The driver is now required to make driving decisions not only from the lead truck's perspective, but also consider the potential implications of his decisions to the follow truck. This project aims to develop a set of rules and clear instructions for ATMA system operation