Potential Hazards in Current Design:
1) Security Risks
-The Wireless Sensor Network collects real-time data, which may include sensitive operational data. If this network were to get hacked, it could cause issues in train safety. With the system being controlled by AI, unauthorized access could create big issues.
2) Sensor Malfunctions
-With the sensors being on or around the tracks and under wear from trains many times a day, they will wear out much faster than normal. When a sensor malfunctions, it will not properly register issues with the track and would be the cause of injuries or deaths.
Solutions to Identified Hazards:
1) Improved Security
-The programmers who repair the system will enact troubleshooting in the case of a breach or system failure
-Improve firewalls to ensure the operational data does not leak or is not stolen
-More strict access requirements to access the network, AI system, or data
2) Improved Sensor Design
-More resilient sensors that do not break down as quickly or easily even when under constant wear from trains
-Sensors that can send alerts when they break or malfunction to know where to repair
-Sensors that are easy to remove from the track and replace in the span of moments to not inconvinience the train system