Re:Ask HN: Do you think self-driving cars are feasable at all?
by stephenr on Thursday November 26, 2015 @12:27AM
(#10631426)
> Trains and elevators are different - they run on tracks/guides and do not have any unforeseeable obstacles
I don't think it's really true that they "do not have any unforeseen obstacles". A lot of random shit can happen on a train line, even when it's got limited access lines like the underground driverless trains linking the terminals at Hong Kong airport. I think its more that they "do not have any possible choices except go, and (try to) stop".
If a Train is "automatic" it has three tasks: start when loaded. stop at pre-determined locations. try to stop if something is detected in the way.
I don't think it's really true that they "do not have any unforeseen obstacles". A lot of random shit can happen on a train line, even when it's got limited access lines like the underground driverless trains linking the terminals at Hong Kong airport. I think its more that they "do not have any possible choices except go, and (try to) stop".
If a Train is "automatic" it has three tasks: start when loaded. stop at pre-determined locations. try to stop if something is detected in the way.