deutsches Glossar

An abridged form of this glossary with about 200 catchwords you find in the textbook Railway Operation and Control.

A

ABS
Abbr. of AUTOMATIC BLOCK SIGNALLING

ABSOLUTE BLOCK
See: BLOCK SECTION

ABSOLUTE BLOCK SYSTEM
A fixed block system in which a train may enter a block section only after the last train ahead has completely cleared the block section and is protected by a stop signal.

ABSOLUTE PERMISSIVE BLOCK (APB)
An automatic block system on single lines on North American railways, which is completely controlled by track circuits providing protection against opposing and following movements without opposite locking.

APB
Abbr. of ABSOLUTE PERMISSIVE BLOCK

ABSOLUTE SIGNAL
1) A signal that must not be passed in stop position without permission from the operator.
2) An interlocking signal with a stop aspect that applies both to train movements and to shunting movements.

ANALYTICAL CAPACITY RESEARCH
A method of capacity research that calculates data from the infrastructure and timetable characteristics to determine and describe the capacity without simulation.

APPROACH-CONTROLLED SIGNAL
A signal that is cleared automatically on the approach of a train.

APPROACH INDICATION
A signal indication that pre-indicates the signal indication to be expected at the next signal.

APPROACH LOCKING
Form of route locking that comes into force after the train has occupied the approach section.

APPROACH_SIGNAL
Another term for an outer home signal, which is mainly used in North American transit railway system.

APPROACH TIME
The running time between a signal that provides an approach indication and the following signal.

ASYNCHRONOUS SIMULATION
A method to simulate railroad operations by stochastically generated train paths. The different train classes are generated one after the other (i.g. asynchronous) in accordance to their priority. Train path conflicts are solved by scheduling rules. (see also: SYNCHRONOUS SIMULATION)

ARS
Abbr. of AUTOMATIC ROUTE SETTING

ATC
Abbr. of AUTOMATIC TRAIN CONTROL

ATO
Abbr. of AUTOMATIC TRAIN OPERATION

ATP
Abbr. of AUTOMATIC TRAIN PROTECTION

ATS
Abbr. of AUTOMATIC TRAIN STOP

AUTOMATIC BLOCK SIGNALLING
A form of operation in which fixed block signals are controlled by an automatic block system.

AUTOMATIC BLOCK SYSTEM
A block system in which the signals work automatically. Lines with an automatic block system must be equipped with track clear detection.

AUTOMATIC POINT SETTING
An appliance that provides an automatic setting of switches when a route is lined up.

AUTOMATIC ROUTE SETTING (ARS)
A system that provides the automatic setting of the proper route when a train approaches a signal. (see also: DESTINATION-BASED AUTOMATIC ROUTE SETTING, TIMETABLE-BASED AUTOMATIC ROUTE SETTING)

AUTOMATIC SIGNAL
A signal that is controlled automatically by the trains moving along the line.

AUTOMATIC TRAIN CONTROL (ATC)
1) Another term for a continuous automatic train protection (ATP) system
2) An automatic train protection (ATP) system that is combined with a device for automatic train operation (ATO).

AUTOMATIC TRAIN OPERATION (ATO)
A system that guides the train automatically by the information provided by an ATP system.

AUTOMATIC TRAIN PROTECTION (ATP)
A system that transmits information about movement authorities and speed limits from the line to the train to cause automatic braking if the train ignores the valid limits. (see also: INTERMITTENT ATP, CONTINUOUS ATP)

AUTOMATIC TRAIN STOP (ATS)
1) A simple form of an intermittent ATP system that only provides an automatic train stop when passing a stop signal but no braking curve supervision in approach to a stop signal.
2) The part of an ATP system that automatically applies the train brakes when the engineer fails to acknowledge a restrictive signal.

AXLE COUNTER
A track clear detection system consisting of counting points at both ends of a section and a counter connected to the counting points. The occupancy of a section is detected by comparing the number of axles which enter the section with the number of axles which leave the section.

B to top of page

BALISE
A transponder that is used as a data point in an intermittent automatic train protection (ATP) system or as reference point for train location in radio-based train control.

BERTH
The track section, on which a train comes to a halt at a stop signal. That term is mainly used in British signalling.

BERTH TRACK CIRCUIT
The track circuit that is immediately on the approach to a signal. That term is mainly used in British signalling.

BIDIRECTIONAL SIGNALLING
A signalling system for two-way working.

BLOCK AND LOCK SYSTEM
Another term for interlocked manual block.

BLOCKING
Assorting freight cars within a train into groups (blocks) bound for individual destinatons.

BLOCK SECTION
A section of track in a fixed block system, which a train may only enter when it is not occupied by other vehicles.

BLOCK SIGNAL
A signal that governs train movements into a block section.

BLOCK SYSTEM
A signalling system that provides a safe spacing of trains. Block systems may be divided into fixed block systems and moving block systems.

BLOCKING TIME
The time interval in which a section of track is exclusively allocated to a train movement and therefore blocked for other trains.

BLOCKING TIME STAIRWAY
A graph displaying the blocking times of all block sections a train passes into a time-over-distance diagram.

BLOCK MARKER
A fixed sign that marks the limit of a block section in a cab signal territory.

BRAKEMAN
A member of a train crew who assists the engineer in the train handling.

BRAKE WEIGHT
The weight, which multiplied by 1.25 equals the weight the vehicle may get to a stop from a speed of 120 km/h over a distance of 1000 m on an even track with no wind. (see also: BRAKING PERCENTAGE, BRAKING RATIO)

BRAKING PERCENTAGE
The percentage of the braking weight on the actual weight of a vehicle or train. The braking percentage may exceed 100 %. This value is mainly used for braking evaluation on UIC railways. (see also: BRAKING RATIO)

BRAKING RATIO
The brake cylinder force divided by the weight of the vehicle. This value is mainly use for braking evaluation on North American railways. (see also: BRAKING PERCENTAGE)

BRANCHLINE, BRANCH
A line diverging from a main line to serve smaller towns with low traffic.

BUFFER STOP
Kind of a bumper as used by railways on which the vehicles are equipped with buffers.

BUFFER TIME
An extra time that is added to the minimum line headway to avoid the transmission of small delays.

BUMPER
A device that prevents vehicles from overrunning the dead-end of a stub track.

C to top of page

CABOOSE
A staffed car at the rear end of freight trains on US railways. Today, a caboose is only required on lines with time spacing.

CAB SIGNALLING
A signalling system that displays the movement authorities on the control panel in the locomotive cab.

CALL-ON ROUTE
British term for a route enabling a train to enter an occupied track.

CALL-ON SIGNAL
A subsidiary signal that allows a train cautiously to pass a stop signal.

CAPACITY
The maximum traffic flow a piece of infrastructure (line, interlocking, terminal, yard) can handle under specified operating conditions.

CAPACITY RESEARCH
The usage of methods of railroad operations research to determine the capacity of lines, interlockings, terminals and yards. (see also: ANALYTICAL CAPACITY RESEARCH, SYNCHRONOUS SIMULATION, ASYNCHRONOUS SIMULATION)

CAR RETARDER
See: RETARDER

CASCADE LOCKING
A form of tabular interlocking in which a route is established by a locking sequence which is effected by permanent and conditional lockings between points and signals. (see also: ROUTE-RELATED_LOCKING)

CBI
Abbr. of COMPUTER-BASED_INTERLOCKING

CENTRALISED TRAFFIC CONTROL (CTC)
A control system in which the local interlockings are remote-controlled by a dispatcher and the trains are governed by signal indication.

CLASSIFICATION
Assembling freight cars into trains bound for specific destinations.

CLASSIFICATION BOWL
A subyard of a classification yard which contains the classification tracks.

CLASSIFICATION SIGNAL
Signals that are displayed by trains on lines with timetable and train order operation to mark extra trains and trains that are divided in sections.

CLASSIFICATION TRACK
A track in the classification bowl designated to a specific destination.

CLASSIFICATION YARD
A freight yard in which incoming cars are classified for new train destinations. (see also: GRAVITY YARD, FLAT YARD)

CLEARING POINT
A point a train must have cleared completely before a signal or a route may be released.

CLOCK FACE TIMETABLE
Another term for a cyclic timetable

CLOSED BLOCK
1) A fixed block system in which the line is blocked in normal state and only cleared when a train is going to enter the block section.
2) An automatic block system, in which the automatic block signals show a stop aspect as the normal indication.

CODED TRACK CIRCUIT
A track circuit in which the track current is overlaid by a code that contains signal information.

COEFFICIENT OF MASS INCREASE
Another term for the rotational inertia coefficient.

COLLATERAL DELAY
A delay that was transmitted from another train. (see also: INITIAL DELAY)

COLOUR LIGHT SIGNAL
A light signal that displays the aspects by the colour of lights.

COLOUR POSITION LIGHT SIGNAL
A light signal which displays the aspects by the colour and the position of lights.

COMMAND INTERLOCKING
An interlocking system in which a signal in a dependent interlocking station can only be cleared after it has been remotely unlocked from the command interlocking station.

COMMAND INTERLOCKING STATION
An interlocking station from which an interlocking signal in the district of a dependent interlocking station must be remotely unlocked to be cleared for a route.

COMMON SIGNAL
A signal that applies to any of a group of converging tracks.

COMPRESSION METHOD
A method to estimate the consumed capacity by pushing the blocking time stairways of a given timetable together until there are no buffer times left.

COMPUTER-BASED INTERLOCKING
An interlocking system in which the interlocking is achieved by software.

CONDITIONAL CROSSLOCK
A crosslock that is only in effect as long as a route is set up or a signal is cleared. (see also: PERMANENT CROSSLOCK)

CONDITIONAL LOCKING
An interlocking between points and a signal in which the locking of the points by clearing the signal depends on the position of other points.

CONDUCTOR
The head of a train crew.

CONFLICTING LOCKING
The interlocking between two conflicting routes that require one or more POINTS set in opposite positions. (see also: PLAIN CONFLICTING ROUTES, OPPOSING LOCKING)

CONFLICTING ROUTES
Routes that must not be set up at the same time. (see also: PLAIN CONFLICTING ROUTES, SPECIAL CONFLICTING ROUTES)

CONSECUTIVE DELAY
Another term for collateral delay.

CONSOLIDATED YARD
Australian term for an area where interlockings controlled by one signalling location have intervening automatic signals.

CONSUMED CAPACITY
The total time comsumed by headways within a considered period.

CONTINUOUS ATP
An ATP system in which the train receives data at all times in order to control the protection system.

CONTROL CENTRE
A centralised control system that controls the train movements in a large territory.

CONTROLLED CUT
A humping control procedure, in which the cuts are retarded semicontinuously by densily spaced small retarders. (see also: FREE CUT)

CONTROLLED MANUAL BLOCK
A manual block system in which the signals are operated manually and controlled by continuous track circuits, requiring co-operation between the operators of adjacent block stations.

CONTROLLED POINT
A station where signals are remote-controlled from a control station.

CONTROLLED SIDING (CS)
A circuited siding in which train movements are governed by signals under control of a dispatcher or operator.

CONTROLLED SIGNAL
A signal that is locally or remotely controlled by an operator.

CONTROL LENGTH OF A SIGNAL
The length of track beyond a signal that must be safe and clear as long the signal displays a proceed aspect.

CONTROL STATION
The dispatcher's office or the location where an operator is on duty and from which remote-controlled signal appliances are operated.

CROSSING
An intersection of two tracks at grade.

CROSSLOCK
An appliance that provides a permanent interlocking of points with a derailer or with other points.

CROSSOVER
An arrangement of corresponding turnouts providing a connection between two parallel tracks.

CROSS TRAFFIC
Cars that arrive in the wrong system of a double-sided classification yard, so that these cars have to go over both humps to reach their destination train.

CTC
Abbr. of CENTRALISED TRAFFIC CONTROL

CURRENT OF TRAFFIC
A direction specified by the rules for all train movements on a main track.

CUT
A single car or a group of coupled cars that run down a hump.

CYCLIC TIMETABLE
A timetable in which trains that belong to the same route are scheduled with fixed time intervals between their train paths.

D to top of page

DARK TERRITORY
A territory with a non-signalled operation.

DEPARTURE YARD
A subyard of a classification yard in which trains are prepared for departure.

DEPENDENT POINT LOCK
A point lock that is actuated by the same device as that which drives the points.

DEPENDENT INTERLOCKING STATION
An interlocking station in which a signal can only be cleared after it has been remotely unlocked from the command interlocking station.

DERAILER(brit.), DERAIL (am.)
A flank protection device that would derail an unsafe movement before it could join the protected route.

DESTINATION-BASED AUTOMATIC ROUTE SETTING
An automatic route setting system in which a route to the proper destination of a train is set up regardless of the scheduled train sequence in the timetable. (see also: TIMETABLE-BASED AUTOMATIC ROUTE SETTING)

DESTINATION SIGNAL
An interlocking signal at the exit of a route. It is also called the exit signal of that route. (see also: ENTRANCE SIGNAL)

DETONATOR
Another term for a torpedo. This term is mainly used outside of North America.

DIAMOND
The inner part of a crossing where the rails form a diamond shape.

DIRECTION LOCKING
A form of opposite locking in which a locked direction of travel is established on a block line that may consist of several block sections.

DIRECT TRAFFIC CONTROL (DTC)
A radio-based occupation control system for non-signalled lines in which the train crews receive exclusive authority to occupy one or more block sections.

DISPATCHER
An employee who supervises the train movements of a line or a certain area. A dispatcher may also perform the duty of a TRAIN CONTROL OPERATOR. (see also: TRAIN DISPATCHER)

DISTANT SIGNAL
A signal that provides an approach indication to a following signal but that cannot display a stop aspect. A distant signal does not limit a block section.

DOUBLE SLIP
A track layout that combines a crossing with four pairs of points to provide slip connections at both sides of the crossing.

DOUBLE SLIP SWITCH
North American Term for a double slip.

DRILL SIGNAL
North American term for a special signal indication for authorizing yard movements.

DTC
Abbr. of DIRECT TRAFFIC CONTROL

DUAL CONTROL POINTS
Remote-controlled points, that can also be hand-operated.

DUAL-CALLED FLANK POINTS
See: SELECTIVE PROTECTIVE POINTS

DWARF SIGNAL
A ground mounted signal.

DWELL TIME
The total elapsed time from the time that a train stops in a station until the time it resumes moving.

E to top of page

EARLY TARGET SHOOTING
A humping control procedure, in which the braking target is the begin of the classification track. (see also: TARGET SHOOTING)

EDDY-CURRENT BRAKE
A brake system, in which the braking force is produced by the eddy-current iduced in the rails by an electro magnet moving above the rail without touching the rail surface. (see also: MAGNETIC RAIL BRAKE)

ELECTRIC INTERLOCKING
An interlocking system in which the interlocking is achieved by a mechanical lever frame with miniature levers and the switches and signals are operated by electric motors and are controlled electrically.

ELECTRONIC INTERLOCKING
See: COMPUTER-BASED INTERLOCKING

ELECTRO-PNEUMATIC INTERLOCKING
An interlocking system in which the interlocking is achieved by a mechanical lever frame and with miniature levers the switches and signals are operated by pneumatic cylinder drives and are controlled electrically.

EMERGENCY ROUTE RELEASE
A manually initiated release of a route or parts of a route if normal route release fails after the passage of a train. (see also: ROUTE CANCELLATION

EMPLOYEE'S TIMETABLE
A timetable for official use by railroad employees.

END OF TRAIN TELEMETRY (EOT), FLASHING REAR END DEVICE (FRED)
A device with an integrated rear end marker which is mounted at the rear car of a train and connected to the airbrake pipe to check train integrity by radio transmission to the leading engine.

ENERGY HEAD
The mechanical energy of a vehicle divided by it's weight force.

ENGINEER
North American term for a train driver.

ENTRANCE-EXIT OPERATION
A form of operating an interlocking machine by pushing a bottom at the entrance and the exit of a route.

ENTRANCE SIGNAL
An interlocking signal at the entrance of a route. (see also: EXIT SIGNAL)

EOT
Abbr. of END OF TRAIN TELEMETRY

ETCS
Abbr. of EUROPEAN TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEM

ETCS LEVEL 1
An intermittent ATP system following the ETCS standard that uses controlled Eurobalises for transmission of control data. (see also: ETCS level 2, ETCS level 3)

ETCS LEVEL 2
An continuous ATP system following the ETCS standard that that combines radio-based train control with a fixed block system. (see also: ETCS level 2, ETCS level 3)

ETCS LEVEL 3
An continuous ATP system following the ETCS standard that that combines radio-based train control with radio-based train separation based on moving block or virtual block. (see also: ETCS level 2, ETCS level 2)

ETCS MODE
An operating control mode of the ETCS on-board unit.

ETCS STOP MARKER
A signal board protecting a danger point at which trains in ETCS SR mode have to stop. (see also: ETCS LOCATION MARKER)

ETCS LOCATION MARKER
A block marker board not protecting a danger point at which trains in ETCS SR mode may pass. (see also: ETCS STOP MARKER)

EUROBALISE
A standardised balise for use in the European Train Control System

EUROPEAN TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEM (ETCS)
European standard for an interoperable automatic train protection system for European railways. (see also: ETCS level 1, ETCS level 2, ETCS level 3)

EXIT SIGNAL
1) An interlocking signal that governs train movements to leave a station track. It is also called a station exit signal. (mainly used outside North America).
2) North American term for the opposing interlocking signal a train passes when leaving interlocking limits.
3) An interlocking signal at the exit of a route. (see also: ENTRANCE SIGNAL)

EXPLOITATION RATE
The percentage of the consumed capacity

EXTRA TRAIN
A train that does not run on a scheduled train path.

F to top of page

FACING POINT MOVEMENT
A movement on a turnout in which the points face approaching traffic.

FIXED BLOCK SYSTEM
A block system in which the track behind a train is sectionally cleared in form of fixed block sections.

FIXED INTERVAL TIMETABLE
Another term for a clock face timetable.

FLAGMAN
A member of the train crew who provides flag protection.

FLAG PROTECTION
A method to protect a train by a member of the train crew who gives stop signals (fusees, flag signals, torpedos) to following and (if required) opposing trains.

FLANK AREA
The section of track between a flank protection device and the fouling point of the route to be protected.

FLANK CALL
The flank protection request a protective trackside elemente may receive from an element of the route to be protected.

FLANK LOCKING
The locking of flank points in the protective position

FLANK PROTECTION
A method to prevent vehicles from running into a route, which is cleared for a train movement.

FLANK POINTS
A points that are locked in a protective position to provide flank protection.

FLANK TRANSFER POINTS
Points that are located between an element that provides remote flank protection and the route to be protected.

FLANK ZONE
Another term for a flank area.

FLASHING REAR END DEVICE (FRED)
See: END OF TRAIN TELEMETRY

FLAT SHUNTING
A shunting method in which vehicles are moved by a locomotive. (see also: GRAVITY SHUNTING)

FLAT YARD
A classification yard in which classification is done by flat shunting. (see also: HUMP YARD)

FLEETED SIGNAL
An interlocking signal on which fleeting is in effect.

FLEETING
1) An automatic mode of an interlocking signal in which the route remains in a locked state and the signal works like an automatic block signal
2) A scheduling principle in which trains of equal speed or direction are assembled into fleets.

FORMATION YARD
Another term for a classification yard (mainly used outside of North America).

FOULING POINT
The limit of occupation of converging tracks at turnouts and crossings.

FOULING POINT INDICATOR
A ground mounted sign to mark the fouling point.

FRED
Abbr. of FLASHING REAR END DEVICE

FREE CUT
A humping control procedure, in which the cuts are retarted only at a few locations (2-3) by powerful retarders. (see also: CONTROLLED CUT)

FROG
The part of a turnout, a crossing, or a gantlet, where the rails have an intersection which allows the wheel flanges to cross the running rail.

FS (FULL SUPERVISION) MODE
An ETCS mode in which the train is supervised and guided by the ETCS.

G to top of page

GANTLET
A track arrangement found on double-track lines that uses a frog to cross the inner rail of one track over the inner rail of another.

GEOGRAPHICAL INTERLOCKING
An interlocking system in which the track elements are represented by logical objects connected to each other in form of the track layout.

GRAVITY SHUNTING
A shunting method in which vehicles run down a gradient driven by gravity into their classification tracks. (see also: FLAT SHUNTING, HUMP YARD, GRAVITY YARD)

GRAVTY YARD
A classification yard that is set up on a continuous falling gradient. Compared with a hump yard, a gravity yard requires less use of shunting locomotives. (see also: FLAT YARD, GRIDIRON YARD)

GRIDIRON YARD
An type of a gravity yard in which several successive ladders form a gridiron shaped track layout.

GROUND FRAME
A ground mounted small lever frame to enable a group of points to be locally controlled by train or yard crews.

GROUP RETARDER
A retarder that serves a group of classification tracks. (see also: MASTER RETARDER)

H to top of page

HEADWAY
The time interval between two successive trains.

HOME SIGNAL
1) A signal governing entrance to an interlocking.
2) A signal governing entrance to a station track.

HOME SIGNAL LIMITS
A track layout that is protected by opposing home signals. On North American railways, the home signal limits always equal the interlocking limits. On most railways outside of North America home signal limits may contain station tracks and successive interlocking signals.

HUMP
An artifical hill in a hump yard where vehicles are pushed over to let gravity drive them into the classification tracks.

HUMPING
The procedure of gravity shunting in a hump yard.

HUMP YARD
A classification yard in which the vehicles run down a hump into the classification bowl. (see also: FLAT YARD, GRAVITY YARD)

I to top of page

IMPEDANCE BONDS
An electrical appliance that enables the return current of electric traction to pass insulated rail joints.

INDEPENDENT POINT LOCK
A point lock that is actuated by a separate device from that which drives the points.

INITIAL DELAY
A delay that was not transmitted from another train. (see also: COLLATERAL DELAY)

INSULATED RAIL JOINT
A rail joint that ensures electrical insulation of adjacent rails to limit a track circuit.

INTERLOCKED MANUAL BLOCK
A manual block system in which the block instruments are interlocked with the signals.

INTERLOCKING AREA
An area with interlocked points and signals.

INTERLOCKING
1) Interconnection of signalling components and systems designed so that no conflicting movements can be signalled.
2) An arrangement of points and signals interconnected in a way that each movement follows the other in a proper and safe sequence.

INTERLOCKING LIMITS
North American Term for the tracks between the outer opposing absolute signals of an interlocking.

INTERLOCKING PLANT
North American term for the the trackage within the limits of an interlocking.

INTERLOCKING SIGNAL
A signal that governs a route through an interlocking.

INTERLOCKING STATION
A location from which an interlocking is operated.

INTERLOCKING SYSTEM
The control system of an interlocking area

INTERLOCKING TABLE
Another term for a route control table.

INTERLOCKING TOWER
North American term for an interlocking station.

INTERMEDIATE BLOCK SIGNAL
A block signal that is located between different interlockings.

INTERMEDIATE INTERLOCKING SIGNAL
An interlocking signal that is neither a home signal nor it governs a route to leave the interlocking area.

INTERMEDIATE POINTS
Points that are located between two interlocking signals in a way that a train that is waiting at the signal ahead would not clear the points. Intermediate switches must be interlocked both with the signal in rear and with the signal in advance.

INTERMITTENT ATP
An ATP system in which the data is transmitted to the train at discrete points along the track.

J to top of page

JOINTLESS TRACK CIRCUIT
A track circuit that uses an AC audio frequency current, so that the working length is limited by the capacitive and inductive track characteristics without a need for insulated rail joints.

JUNCTION
An arrangement of tracks and turnouts in which a line is joined by another one.

K to top of page

KEY INTERLOCKING
A method to achieve interlocking between signals and hand-throw points by mechanical key locks.

L to top of page

LADDER
A group of parallel tracks connected by a ladder track.

LADDER TRACK
A track that provides access to a series of parallel tracks.

LEAVING SIGNAL
North American term for a signal that governs train movements to leave a siding, yard, or branchline.

LEVERMAN
An employee who operates an interlocking machine (lever frame) under supervision of a train director.

LEVER SEQUENCE
The sequence in which the levers have to be operated to line up a route on an interlocking machine with cascade locking.

LIGHT SIGNAL
A signal in which the aspects are given by the color and/or position of lights.

LINE BLOCK SYSTEM
A block system to enforce fixed block operation by locking signals protecting a block section in stop position.

LINE HEADWAY
The headway that results from the blocking time stairways of two successive trains.

LINE RESISTANCE
The runnings resistance produced by the grade and the curvature of the line. (see also: TRAIN RESISTANCE)

LOCKING FRAME
A mechanical locking system that effects the interlocking between the levers of a mechanical, electric or electro-pneumatic interlocking machine.

LOCKING SHEET
Another term for a route control table, mainly used for mechanical locking frames.

LOCKING TABLE
Another term for a route control table, mainly used for mechanical locking frames.

LOOP
A track that is used for passing and overtaking trains. This term is mainly used outside of North America. (see also: SIDING)

LS (LIMITED SUPERVISION) MODE
An ETCS mode in which the train is supervised but not guided by the ETCS.

M to top of page

MAGNETIC RAIL BRAKE
A brake system in which the braking force is produced by an electro magnet pressed on the rail surface. (see also: EDDY-CURRENT BRAKE)

MAIN ROUTE
A route governed by a main signal.

MAIN SIGNAL
A signal that governs train movements. This term is used by railways outside of North America to distinguish these signals from shunting signals.

MAINTAINED LOCKING
Another term for route holding.

MAIN TRACKS
The tracks that may be used for regular train movements.

MANUAL BLOCK
A fixed block system in which the signals are operated manually and the clearing of the block sections is checked by local operators watching the rear end markers.

MANUAL SIGNAL
A signal that is operated manually.

MARSHALLING YARD
Another term for a classification yard (mainly used outside of North America).

MASTER RETARDER
The first retarder vehicles pass while running down a hump. (see also: GROUP RETARDER)

MECHANICAL INTERLOCKING
An interlocking system in which the interlocking is achieved by a mechanical lever frame and the switches and signals are operated by muscle power with rod or wire transmission.

MINIMUM RUNNING TIME
The shortest running time as a result from a running time calculation.

MOVABLE FROG
A pivoting or flexible frog that is operated by a point machine to close the rail gap at the frog in accordance to the route that is set up.

MOVEMENT AUTHORITY
The authority to move a train through a section of track up to a specified limit. (see also: TIMETABLE AUTHORITY)

MOVING BLOCK SYSTEM
A block system in which the track behind a train is cleared continously. (see also: FIXED BLOCK SYSTEM, VIRTUAL BLOCK SYSTEM)

MOVING-UP SIGNAL
A signal placed between the home signal and the platform to allow a train to pass the home signal while a departing train ahead has not yet completely cleared the platform section.

MULTIPLE-BLOCK SIGNALLING
A signalling system in which the main signals provide information about the clearance of more than one block section.

MULTIPLE HOME SIGNALS
Another term for a signal arrangement in which a home signal is followed by one or more moving-up signals.

MULTI-UNIT LIGHT SIGNAL
A colour light signal with independent light units and every unit using one light.

N to top of page

NON SIGNAL-CONTROLLED OPERATION
An operating procedure in which the traffic is controlled by verbal or written authority. A non signal-controlled operation may be combined with a signalling system as a safety overlay. (see also: SIGNAL-CONTROLLED OPERATION)

NON-SIGNALLED OPERATION
A form of a non signal-controlled operation in which the traffic is controlled by verbal or written authority and the train separation is not protected by a signalling system.

NORMAL RUNNING TIME
The scheduled running time as the sum of the minimum running time and the recovery time.

NX OPERATION
Abbr. of ENTRANCE-EXIT OPERATION

O to top of page

OCCUPATION ELEMENT
A part of the infrastructure that can only be occupied successively keeping a minimum headway between successive trains.

ONE-BLOCK SIGNALLING
A signalling system in which the main signals provide information about the clearance of only one block section.

ONE-TRAIN WORKING (OTW)
An operating procedure for single track branches based on the rule that on the entire line, only one train is allowed at a time.

OPEN BLOCK
1)A fixed block system in which the line is cleared (open) in normal state and only blocked as long as a train has occupied the block section.
2) An automatic block system, in which the automatic block signals show a proceed aspect as the normal indication.

OPEN LINE
Main tracks outside of station areas (not used in North American and British signalling).

OPERATOR
An employee who operates signalling appliances. (see also: TRAIN CONTROL OPERATOR)

OPERATING PROCEDURE
A system of operating rules and technical appliances to operate trains on a railway infrastructure.

OPPOSING LOCKING
The interlocking between opposing routes leading into the same track section.

OPPOSITE LOCKING
The part of an interlocked block system to prevent opposing movements in single line operations. (see also: DIRECTION LOCKING)

ORIGINAL DELAY
Another term for initial delay.

OS (ON SIGHT) MODE
An ETCS mode in which the on-board unit contains a movement authority allowing the train to proceed cautiously on sight.

OUTER HOME SIGNAL
An interlocking signal in approach to a home signal that does not directly protect points but that is interlocked with points within the overlap beyond the home signal.

OVERLAP
A certain length of track beyond a signal that must not be occupied as long a train is approaching this signal.

OVERLAPPING OVERLAPS
Another term for shared overlaps.

P to top of page

PERIODIC TIMETABLE
Another term for a clock face timetable.

PERMANENT CROSSLOCK
A crosslock that is permanently in effect. (see also: CONDITIONAL CROSSLOCK)

PERMISSIVE SIGNAL
A signal that may be cautiously passed in stop position after the train has stopped at the signal. After passing a permissive signal in stop position the movement in the next block section must be made at restricted speed.

PLAIN CONFLICTING ROUTES
Conflicting routes that require points set in opposite positions. (see also: SPECIAL CONFLICTING ROUTES)

POINT INDICATOR
A sign that indicates the position of points.

POINT LOCK
A locking device that mechanically locks the points in a proper position to prevent unattended movements of the points and movable frogs.

POINT MACHINE
A machine that is used to operate points, movable frogs or derailers.

POINTS
The movable parts of a turnout that are operated to set up different routes.

POSITION LIGHT SIGNAL
A light signal that indications are given by the position of two or more lights.

POSITIVE TRAIN CONTROL (PTC)
An advanced automatic arain protection system that enforces movement authorities, speed restrictions (signal and civil), and protection of roadway workers. This term is mainly used for radio-based systems in North America.

PRIMARY DELAY
Another term for initial delay.

PROTECTION SIGNAL
A signal that displays a stop aspect for protection purposes but that is not used to authorise regular train movements.

PROTECTIVE POINTS
Another term for a flank points

PTC
Abbr. of POSITIVE TRAIN CONTROL

PURE RUNNING TIME
The shortest possible running time between scheduled stops as a result from a running time calculation.

R to top of page

RADIO-BASED TRAIN CONTROL
A form of operation in which the movement authorities are issued by a radio block centre.

RADIO BLOCK CENTRE
A control centre to supervise and control train movements in a territory with radio-based train control.

RADIO ELECTRONIC TOKEN BLOCK (RETB)
A form of radio-based train control in which the movement authority for a block section is issued in form of an electronic token, which is transmitted by radio from the radio block CENTRE to the train. After the train has cleared the section the token is send back to the radio block centre.

REAR END MARKER
A marker at the rear end of a train.

RECEIVING YARD
A subyard of classification yard in which the incoming trains arrive.

RECOVERABILITY OF THE TIMETABLE
The ability of a timetable to reduce the consequences of delays.

RECOVERY TIME
A time supplement that is added to the pure running time to enable a train to make up small delays.

RELAY INTERLOCKING
An interlocking system in which the interlocking is achieved by relay circuits.

REMOTE FLANK PROTECTION
A flank protection that is provided by an element that is not directly adjacent to the route to be protected.

RESTRICTED SPEED
A speed that allows to stop short of a vehicle or obstruction. This term is mainly used on North American railways.

RETARDER
A trackside braking device used in gravity shunting to control cars running down a hump.

RIGID CROSSING
A crossing without movable frogs.

ROTATIONAL_INERTIA_COEFFICIENT
The coefficient to consider the inertia of rotating masses in running time calculationcs.

ROTATIONAL MASS FACTOR
Another term for the rotational inertia coefficient.

ROTATION LOCKING
An interlocking appliance that prevents a second operation of a control unit after certain conditions have been met.

ROUTE
A path through an interlocking area, along which an authorised movement is to be made.

ROUTE CANCELLATION
A manually initiated release of a locked route after having restored the signal. (see also: EMERGENCY ROUTE RELEASE)

ROUTE CLEARING POINT
A point that a train must have cleared completely before a locked route or sections of a locked route may be released.

ROUTE CONFLICT RATE
The number of conflicting route combinations divided by the total number of route combinations of a route node.

ROUTE CONFLICT TABLE
A sheet used for capacity research containing all route conflicts of a route node.

ROUTE CONTROL TABLE
A tabular sheet that contains all interlocking conditions for a given layout.

ROUTE HOLDING
A locking function that maintains all locking conditions of a route until the train has passed clear the clearing point of the relevant route elements.

ROUTE LOCKING
The locking of all points as long a route is established.

ROUTE MONITORING
A continuous procedure that checks all signalling conditions of a route and transfers the information towards the entrance signal.

ROUTE NODE
The point zone of an interlocking area in which conflicts between different routes may occur.

ROUTE PRESELECTION
The selection of a route while a conflicting route has not yet released. After the conflicting route has released the preselected route will be setted up automatically.

ROUTE-RELATED LOCKING
A form of tabular interlocking in which all elements of a route are locked at once by a route locking element that releases the signal to be cleared. The points and signals are not directly connected by locking sequences. (see also: CASCADE LOCKING)

ROUTE RELEASE
The release of locked points after the train has cleared the clearing point of a route.

ROUTE SIGNALLING
A signalling system in which the facing point signals indicate the route respectively the direction in which the train is being sent.

RUNNING LINE
Another term for a main track.

RUNNING MOVEMENT
British term for a normal train movement under control of a main signal.

S to top of page

SAFETY POINTS
Points that are installed to provide flank protection.

SCHEDULE
The designation of train description, day, route, speed, arrival and departure times of a train.

SCHEDULED WAITING TIME
The waiting time that is needed for a scheduled passing and overtaking and to synchronise the schedules of a cyclic interval timetable.

SEARCHLIGHT SIGNAL
A colour light signal with light units in which the aspect is given by a mechanism placing one of a number of roundels of the colour required, situated near the focus of the lens unit, in front of the lamp.

SECONDARY DELAY
Another term for collateral delay.

SECONDARY TRACKS
North American term for tracks that are not used for regular train movements.

SECTION SIGNAL
British term for a signal that governs train movements to leave station limits.

SELECTIVE OVERLAP
A form of overlap protection, in which the operator, when setting up a route, can select one of several possible overlaps. In difference to swinging overlaps, once the signal has been cleared, the overlap cannot be changed without cancelling the route.

SELECTIVE PROTECTIVE POINTS, DUAL-CALLED FLANK POINTS
Flank points that may receive flank calls for both positions at the same time. See also: SUBSEQUENT FLANK PROTECTION

SELF-SELECTIVE PROTECTIVE POINTS
flank points that would receive competing flank protection requests for both positions from different route elements of the same route. There must determined a position for the points to be locked in.

SEMAPHORE SIGNAL
A signal that gives the indication by the position of movable arms or disks.

SEMI-AUTOMATIC SIGNAL
A controlled signal that my be switched into automatic mode.

SHARED OVERLAPS
Two or more overlaps simultanously leading into the same track section without causing a route conflict.

SH (SHUNTING) MODE
An ETCS mode that allows to perform shunting moves that cannot be controlled in FS mode or OS mode.

SHUNT ASPECT
A proceed aspect allowing a shunting move to pass a signal.

SHUNTING
Movements other than train movements accomplished at restricted speed within designated limits for making up trains, moving vehicles between tracks and similar purposes.

SHUNTING LIMITS
A territory limited by shunting limit boards or other points designated in the operating instructions, where shunting units may enter main tracks. (see also: Yard limits)

SHUNTING LIMIT BOARD
A fixed sign that must not be passed by shunting movements.

SHUNTING SIGNAL, SHUNT SIGNAL
A signal that is used to authorise shunting movements.

SHUNTING UNIT
An locomotive with or without other vehicles that is authorised to run as a shunting movement.

SHUNT ROUTE
A route governed by a shunting signal or the shunt aspect of a main signal.

SIDING
1) North American term for a loop
2) Outside of North America, a shunting track that may not be used for regular train movements.

SIGNAL ASPECT
The appearance of a lineside signal, as viewed from the direction of an approaching train, or the appearance of a cab signal.

SIGNAL BOX
British term for an interlocking station.

SIGNAL CABIN
Another term for an interlocking station.

SIGNAL CLEARING POINT
The point at the end of the overlap a train must have cleared completely to release the block section in approach of the signal.

SIGNAL-CONTROLLED OPERATION
A form of operation in which train movements are governed by signal indication.

SIGNALED DTC
A form of DTC in which the line is equipped with a simplified signalling system as a safety overlay.

SIGNALED OPERATION
A form of operation in which train movements are governed by signal indication.

SIGNALED TWC
A form of TWC in which the line is equipped with a simplified signalling system as a safety overlay.

SIGNAL HEADWAY
The headway that results from the blocking times of two successive trains in one single block section.

SIGNAL INDICATION
The information that is given by a signal aspect.

SIGNALLER
British term for a TRAIN CONTROL OPERATOR

SIGNALLING PRINCIPLES
The underlying principles of a signalling-based safeworking system that are based on the national standards but are independent of the requirements of a specific operator and of the technology used.

SIMULATION
A method of capacity research in which, different from analytical capacity research, the running operational processes are modelled (mostly in a computer model). See also: ASYNCHRONOUS_SIMULATION, SYNCHRONOUS_SIMULATION.

SINGLE SLIP
A track layout that combines a crossing with two pairs of points to provide slip connections at one side of the crossing.

SINGLE SLIP SWITCH
North American Term for a single slip.

SLIP SWITCH
North American Term for a crossing that is combined with movable points for slip connections.

SPECIAL CONFLICTING ROUTES
Conflicting routes that do not differ in the position of points. (see also: PLAIN CONFLICTING ROUTES)

SPEED SIGNALLING
A signalling system in which the signals indicate the speed not to be exceeded by a train.

SPRING POINTS, SPRING SWITCH
Points that may be passed by trailing point movements in wrong position and returns to normal position under spring load after the passage.

SPUR TRACK, SPUR
A short stretch of track diverging from a main or branchline to serve a customer located away from the primary trackage.

SR (STAFF RESPONSIBLE) MODE
An ETCS mode in which the train is authorised by the operator to proceed without a valid movement authority in the on-board unit. The driver has to stop the train manually at an ETCS stop marker.

STAGGERED HOME SIGNALS
Another term for a signal arrangement in which a home signal is followed by one or more moving-up signals.

STARTER SIGNAL
Another term for a a section signal. While this term is no longer used in the British rules, it is still common in many other countries.

STATION
1) A place designated in the timetable by name.
2) A place with a platform stop for passenger trains.
3) A short term for a station area (not used in North American and British signalling).

STATION AREA
An arrangement of station tracks limited by opposing home signals (not used in North American and British signalling).

STATION EXIT SIGNAL
A interlocking signal that governs train movements to leave a station track (mainly used outside North America).

STATION LIMITS
British term for the line from the home signal and the last section signal (starter signal) of the same direction which is controlled from the same signal box. This does not apply on a track circuit block line.

STATION TRACK
A main track between successive interlocking signals within the same home signal limits (mainly used outside of North America).

STATION YARD
Another term for a station area.

STATION TRAFFIC DIAGRAM
A diagram that displays the scheduled occupation of the tracks in large stations and interlockings.

STUB TRACK
A dead-end track, usually equipped with a bumper.

SUBSEQUENT FLANK PROTECTION
selective protective points that, after the protected route element has released, will subsequently move to the protective position for another route element.

SUPERIOR TRAIN
A train having precedence over another train.

SWINGING OVERLAP
A form of overlap protection using a conditional crosslock that allows switching the overlap into another track without cancelling the route.

SWITCH
North American term for a pair of points. In North American railway operations and signalling turnouts are usually referred to as switches.

SWITCH DIAMOND
A diamond crossing with movable frogs.

SWITCHING
North American term for shunting.

SYNCHRONOUS SIMULATION
A method to simulate railway operations by modelling all partial processes of the operation in real time sequences. (see also: ASYNCHRONOUS SIMULATION)

T to top of page

TABULAR INTERLOCKING
An interlocking system in which the locking between signals and points is achieved in form of a route control table that contains all locking conditions for all routes. Tabular interlocking can be effected by cascade locking or by route-related locking.

TARGET SHOOTING
A humping control procedure, in which the braking target is the end of the car line in the classification track. (see also: EARLY TARGET SHOOTING)

TCO
Abbr. of TRAIN CONTROL OFFICER

TELEGRAPH ORDER SYSTEM
A South African train message system in which local operators exchange train messages over a section with intermediate unsignalled and unstaffed passing loops. At the entrance of the section a train gets an order that determines the meeting points with opposing trains within this section.

TRAIN RESISTANCE
The runnings resistance produced by the running characteristics of the train. (see also: LINE RESISTANCE)

TELEPHONE BLOCK
A manual block system in which the occupation of the block sections is controlled by telephone communication between the block operators.

TERMINAL
An assemblage of facilities provided at a terminus or at intermediate points of a line for the purpose of assembling, assorting, classifying and relaying trains.

TIME BLOCK SYSTEM
See: TIME SPACING

TIME LOCKING
An application that will hold a route locked for a specified time after the signal has been manually restored..

TIME SPACING, TIME BLOCK SYSTEM
A method of train separation in which a train must not follow another train until a specified time interval (usually 10 minutes) after the preceeding train has departed. In case of a delay, flag protection is required.

TIMETABLE
A document that contains the schedules of all trains of a line.

TIMETABLE AND TRAIN ORDER OPERATION
A traditional but today obsolete form of non-signalled operation on US railways in which trains are governed by the timetable. In dark territory, trains are separated by time spacing combined with flag protection. The traffic is regulated by priority rules and train orders which are issued by the dispatcher.

TIMETABLE AUTHORITY
The authority to run a train through the network along a pre-defined train path and under operating conditions specified in the timetable. (see also: MOVEMENT AUTHORITY)

TIMETABLE-BASED AUTOMATIC ROUTE SETTING
An automatic route setting system in which all routes are set up both in compliance with the proper destination of the trains and with the scheduled train sequence of the timetable. (see also: DESTINATION-BASED AUTOMATIC ROUTE SETTING)

TIMETABLE CAPACITY
The maximum number of train paths that could be scheduled on a line without considering buffer times.

TOKEN BLOCK SYSTEM
A block system for single track lines in which the movement authority for a block section depends on the posession of a token which is handed out the train driver and handed back after clearing the section.

TOKENLESS BLOCK SYSTEM
A block system that works without exchanging a token between the control apparatus and the train driver.

TORPEDO
An explosive signalling device, placed on the railhead and detonated by a passing vehicle.

TOWER
See: INTERLOCKING TOWER

TRACK CLEAR DETECTION
A device that detects the occupation and clearance of a track section.

TRACK CIRCUIT
A track clear detection device consisting of an electrical circuit of which the rails of a section form a part. The clearance of the section is detected by a detection device at one end of the section which receives a current from a source at the other end of the section.

TRACK CIRCUIT BLOCK
British term for a method of working trains on a track where safety is ensured by continuous track clear detection devices (track circuits, axle counters) without the requirement to visually confirm that trains are complete.

TRACK WARRANT
A written form for authorisation of train movements in TWC territory.

TRACK WARRANT CONTROL (TWC)
A radio-based occupation control system for non-signalled lines in which trains may occupy main tracks only on the basis of the possession of a track warrant covering a precisely defined track segment of any length.

TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Another term for a dispatcher. This term is used on some railways outside of North America.

TRAFFIC DENSITY
The number of trains that are running at the same time on a certain portion of a line.

TRAFFIC DIAGRAM
A diagram that contains the train paths of all trains that run on a line.

TRAFFIC ENERGY
The traffic flow multiplied by the average train speed.

TRAFFIC FLOW
The number of trains per unit of time.

TRAILING POINT MOVEMENT
A movement on a turnout where the frog faces approaching traffic.

TRAIN, TRAIN MOVEMENT
A locomotive or self-propelled vehicle, alone or coupled to one or more vehicles, displaying a rear end marker with the authority to operate on main tracks in accordance to rules specified for train movements.

TRAIN CONTROL
The method of authorising train movements.

TRAIN CONTROL OFFICER
South African term for an train control operator.

TRAIN CONTROL OPERATOR
Generic term for an operator who is in charge of authorising train movements. (see also: SIGNALLER, TRAIN DIRECTOR, TRAIN DISPATCHER)

TRAIN DESCRIBER
A system that identifies trains which occupy a block section on the display at the panel of the operator or dispatcher.

TRAIN DESCRIPTION
A number or an alphanumeric code for identification of a train and its schedule.

TRAIN DIRECTOR, TRAIN MOVEMENT DIRECTOR
An train control operator who controls a local interlocking or terminal area. A train director may supervise a number of levermen. This term is mainly used in the North American rules.

TRAIN DISPATCHER
A dispatcher who also performs the duty of a train control operator. This term is mainly used in the North American rules.

TRAIN MESSAGES
Messages exchanged between the operators of locally controlled stations for train movement control.

TRAIN MESSAGE SYSTEM
An European form of train control in which local operators exchange train messages.

TRAIN ORDER
An order form that is used for traffic regulation on lines operated by timetable and train order.

TRAIN ORDER SIGNAL
A signal that indicates that an approaching train has to pick up train orders.

TRAIN ORDER STATION
A station where train orders may be picked up by trains.

TRAIN PATH
A time-distance graph that represents the schedule of a train in a traffic diagram.

TRAIN REGISTER BOOK
British term for a train record.

TRAIN RECORD
A written sheet in which an operator records all train movements and train messages.

TRAIN ROUTE
A locked route for the safe passage of a train through an interlocking. (see also: MAIN ROUTE, SHUNT ROUTE)

TRAINSHEET
A document in which the dispatcher records all train movements and movement authorities.

TRAVEL TIME QUOTIENT
The realised travel time divided by the shortest possible travel time.

TRIP STOP
Most simple form of an automatic train stop system (ATS) that is operated by mechanical contact between a trackside trip arm and a brake trip switch on the train.

TUMBLE DOWN
A principle of protecting opposing movements on automatic block lines in which automatic signals of both directions are cleared in normal state but automatically restored to stop position when an opposing move has entered the line.

TURNOUT
An assembly of rails, movable points and a frog, which effects the tangential branching of tracks and allows trains or vehicles to run over one track or another.

TWC
Abbr. of TRACK WARRANT CONTROL

TWO-WAY WORKING
An operating mode for double track lines where the tracks may be operated in both directions under block signal control.

U to top of page

UNSIGNALLED OPERATION
Another term for a non-signalled operation.

V to top of page

VIRTUAL SIGNAL
A main signal that only exists in the control system without a physical lineside signal. It is virtually cleared to visualise movement authorities for the operator on lines with cab signalling

VIRTUAL BLOCK SYSTEM
A block system, in which virtual block sections are established in the control computer without having physical block sections on the line. (see also: MOVING BLOCK SYSTEM)

W to top of page

WAITING TIME DIAGRAM
A diagram displaying the waiting time as a function of the traffic flow.

WARNER ROUTE
British term for a route with a reduced overlap. A warner route is governed by an approach controlled signal that will only clear after the train has passed a warning aspects at the signal in rear.

WARNER SIGNAL
Another term for a distant signal.

WYE
A triangle track arrangement consisting of three turnouts or of two turnouts and a high angle crossing.

Y to top of page

YARD
1) An arrangement of tracks, other than main tracks, used for making up trains, storing cars and trains and other purposes
2) Australian term for the track system of a station area. (see also: CONSOLIDATED YARD)

YARD ENGINE
North American term fo a locomotive in yard service that may occupy main tracks only within yard limits.

YARD LIMITS
1) North American term for a territory where yard engines may enter main tracks under simplified conditions without authority from the dispatcher
2) Australian term for the limits of a station area (see Autralian use of the term yard) that separates this area from the sections of the open line.

YARD MOVEMENT
A movement in a yard or within yard limits for shunting purposes.