Which device monitors crew alertness and can trigger a penalty brake?

Which device monitors crew alertness and can trigger a penalty brake?

• A. Crew Alertness Device
• B. PTC
• C. Locomotive Over Speed Device
• D. Automatic Train Stop

Answer: (A)

The device is the Crew Alertness Device. It keeps the engineer engaged by requiring periodic acknowledgment or action. If the engineer doesn’t respond within the allotted time, the system triggers a penalty brake to stop or slow the train, ensuring attention is regained before continuing. This specific function targets operator vigilance, unlike other systems: Automatic Train Stop brakes for signal or safety conditions, PTC enforces speed and movement authority, and a Locomotive Over Speed Device only monitors and flags speed issues. The crucial idea is that the Crew Alertness Device actively monitors alertness and can automatically apply brakes to curb fatigue-related lapses.

The device is the Crew Alertness Device. It keeps the engineer engaged by requiring periodic acknowledgment or action. If the engineer doesn’t respond within the allotted time, the system triggers a penalty brake to stop or slow the train, ensuring attention is regained before continuing. This specific function targets operator vigilance, unlike other systems: Automatic Train Stop brakes for signal or safety conditions, PTC enforces speed and movement authority, and a Locomotive Over Speed Device only monitors and flags speed issues. The crucial idea is that the Crew Alertness Device actively monitors alertness and can automatically apply brakes to curb fatigue-related lapses.