Platform-Independent Control Centre Integration in Digital Data Spaces Within the Framework of Gaia-X

Establishing trust poses significant challenges in distributed systems where multiple participants need to connect. This study investigates the potential of digital identities within Gaia-X as a technical platform to facilitate data exchange in the context of automated driving, particularly in public transportation. We hypothesise that future automated driving systems will function as distributed networks, where automated vehicle fleets offered by one participant can be utilised by others, such as public transport providers, without the need for prior personal connections or business relationships. Gaia-X, a framework designed to establish trust among various stakeholders, serves as the focal point of our investigation. We aim to elucidate the fundamental concepts of identity management in Gaia-X and assess different implementations of its software components. Through a use case from the automated driving sector, we will demonstrate the feasibility of using digital identities in Gaia-X as a trust-building foundation. Our approach involves the evaluation of various Gaia-X implementation options, followed by the selection of those most suitable for our use case for facilitating connections among participants within a designated data space. We will also reflect on lessons learned and draw conclusions about how Gaia-X is applicable in this domain. Finally, we will provide recommendations on the necessary steps to enable Gaia-X as a reliable basis for communication and connection among diverse participants in a data space. In conclusion, different stakeholders implemented an authentication process between a remote control centre and a connected vehicle. This process was achieved by utilising the Atlas-X SSI framework in conjunction with the Atlas-X Gateway. The aforementioned process encompasses not only identity-based authentication but also the application of predefined usage policies based on identities.