Automatic Signals: How many tracks use them?

[ChuckHackett-844]

I'm wondering how many tracks (private, club, park scale, etc.) have automatic signal systems with track-circuit train detection, specifically, how many tracks have systems that:

• Support train separation only (i.e.: not bi-directional)

• Support full-time bi-directional running (predominately passing sidings)

• Support full-time bi-directional running with engineer choice of different routes (Wye's, complex interlocks, etc.)

What type of system is used? (commercial, home/club developed, relay/solid-state, etc.)

Does it support simply occupied/unoccupied or does it have "claiming" lockouts to only permit a single train to enter a block?

[rkcarguy]

Chuck, I'm going through the build of my large scale "train set" and have built some home brew signals and relay banks for my private home track.
Just using relays, not directional, with operating rules and turnout position/train sensing across the rails to properly indicate the signals. The sensing relays have not yet been chosen, as the leakage/resistance of each block needs to be measured once installed and somewhat built to suit.

[ChuckHackett-844]

Hmmm, it's been quiet on this subject ... I know there are at least 1/2 dozen tracks out there using full-time signals, including, I think Maricopa, LA ... and, of course Illinois Live-steamers (BDD? ) ...

Everybody out Christmas shopping?

[chiloquinruss]

Train Mountain has a system for a portion of their layout. It is used mostly in the congested area around the main yard and Central Station areas. It is of the type as your #1 post and is also of the occupied / unoccupied type. During large meets their are also several powered turnouts that also include directional signals. With no dispatcher SOME of these can be controlled local. In addition to there is a section that was bi-directional for a couple of years that is now part of a larger loop but the signals are currently dark but could be fired backup if desired. Russ

Here is a link to our web page with some of the system links into the system.
http://trainmtn.org/tmrr/pages/signals_ ... _ctc.shtml

[johnpenn74]

Well,.... I think Absolute Permissive Block is great and am working diligently to add more. At CSME/ Eagle Point we have 1 signal bridge covers the passenger loading platform (on a curve) and both tracks do red/ green to give occupancy.

This past weekend I finally got an APB signal head working (yes works in the snow and the rain). It gives indicate based on the home, advanced block and switch position.

Back in the day at the Old NGLS track, Rich D had build a wonderful signal system that was automatic reading home and distant blocks. The catch was the track was a circle burner. APB worked really good to space out trains but didn't do much for opposing traffic.

I personally am tired of capture the flag (manual track warrant, manual block, what ever you want to call it) and aspire for something that is more prototypical. I will spend my efforts to build something greater not lesser.

JP

[johnpenn74]

One of Richards signals.

[rkcarguy]

Looks good John. What's the blue light for?
That a relay matrix running that setup? Or did you buy something off the shelf?

[johnpenn74]

The brains in this one is just relays, like the prototype. Granted I am not using polar relays, but a hard wired array to make the signaling decisions. Off the shelf,.... HA! Pictured below is the third go around in the design. I am trying to strike a balance between what is prototypical and what is reasonable for failsafe components in the design.

The blue light is for lunar which is for restricted. The safetran standard has started to replace Permissive reds with Blue. That is, some times you can run a red (under restriction). I expect to see a lot of it on the RR as there are several locations where one goes off the signaled block into a unsignaled block.

I am using blue to indicate restricting proceed rule 290 instead of 291 and 294. For this project I want use multiple heads on masts but simplify what is displayed so as not to confuse the user.

Most operators would not see the difference in a mast with a plate "P" or block number distringushing between 291 and 292. I feel the color is the best method.

In most cases it indicates you are going into UNSIGNALED territory, hence the need for restricted speed.

JP

[Berkman]

Have a chart of the new signal aspects with the new automatic signals at EPRR?

[johnpenn74]

Yes I do!!!!
Its real simple.

Route indication, with a very reduced amount of aspects.

JP

[rkcarguy]

The neat thing about a relay matrix system is that it's easily added to, once you figure it out. Just add another relay matrix and wires/diodes back to the prior blocks and you've just expanded. Hardest part is probably burying the wires.
Because my line is going to end up like a big backwards "J" around my home and driveway, I'll have 3-4 spots where I can tap into 110V power near the tracks, so I expect wiring the signal system to be pretty easy as I won't have to run power any long distances, only the "sensor" wires for each block between the relay cabinets.

[Steggy]

Yes I do!!!!
Its real simple.

Route indication, with a very reduced amount of aspects.

JP

Good luck getting your members to remember all that.