Joined
·
4,548 Posts
Junctions and stations - two important functions here:
1) stop trains colliding with each other by preventing 'conflicting movements'.
For example, where two lines merge, only one train can be allowed to proceed at a time and the trains must be stopped a little before the junction to give a safety margin.
2) confirm to the driver which route he is to take when he comes to a 'facing point' where he can take one of two routes - or maybe more if there are further points beyond the first one.
The signals used are of two types:
The 'feather' indicator is OK anywhere - but can only signal a maximum of 7 routes (straight ahead and three each side). The 'theatre' indicator is capable of showing more routes, but is restricted to stations where trains always approach at slow speed, so is used mostly at termini or major stations where all trains stop.
In the model world however we have an even smaller choice. No 'off the shelf' theatre indicators at all and three and four aspect signals with only position 1 or position 4 'feather' indicators! So unless you want to try and build your own there's not much choice! I'll look at this when we start planting signals on the layout.
Both the feather and theatre indicators will not show the route if the signal shows the Red 'Stop' aspect. If the route to be taken leads into a dead-end - the bay platforms in particular on your layout, the signal will only clear to the Yellow 'Caution' aspect. (Don't forget there will be a fixed red signal just in front of the buffers.)
Next instalment a bit later today, I hope.
Regards,
John
1) stop trains colliding with each other by preventing 'conflicting movements'.
For example, where two lines merge, only one train can be allowed to proceed at a time and the trains must be stopped a little before the junction to give a safety margin.
2) confirm to the driver which route he is to take when he comes to a 'facing point' where he can take one of two routes - or maybe more if there are further points beyond the first one.
The signals used are of two types:

The 'feather' indicator is OK anywhere - but can only signal a maximum of 7 routes (straight ahead and three each side). The 'theatre' indicator is capable of showing more routes, but is restricted to stations where trains always approach at slow speed, so is used mostly at termini or major stations where all trains stop.
In the model world however we have an even smaller choice. No 'off the shelf' theatre indicators at all and three and four aspect signals with only position 1 or position 4 'feather' indicators! So unless you want to try and build your own there's not much choice! I'll look at this when we start planting signals on the layout.
Both the feather and theatre indicators will not show the route if the signal shows the Red 'Stop' aspect. If the route to be taken leads into a dead-end - the bay platforms in particular on your layout, the signal will only clear to the Yellow 'Caution' aspect. (Don't forget there will be a fixed red signal just in front of the buffers.)
Next instalment a bit later today, I hope.
Regards,
John