NSEU- you're an avionics engineer? You are arguing a bit out of your sphere of knowledge!
True, I am an avionics maintenance engineer, but I'm actively involved in pushbacks of aircraft of many different types. Sure, I understand about braking during pushback... but my biggest concern is the motor locking up on takeoff/landing....I assume the system is NOT fitted with antiskid? Most airplane systems, if they lose electrical power, go into the safest mode. What happens if this nosewheel drive system loses power? Sure, you can put interlocks on this system, but how many will there be? (with reversers and spoilers, they seem to keep re-evaluating the number every 10 years after the existing interlocks have failed and caused major accidents).
BTW, if communications break down between the ground and flight deck during a critical part of pushback, what is the procedure to stop the aircraft? (at least with a tug, you can signal the tugdriver to stop... or even if you are in difficulty and are unable to signal the driver, he can see what you are doing at all times). Pushing back a 747, how long would the headset lead have to be before the pilots can see me? (Note: the longer the lead, the more likely it is put strain on the wiring, leading to failure... or to get caught under the wheels)... And just ask me how many times I have called the cockpit only to be told to "standby"....
