Signaling Lamps and ECR Method

The red aspect of a multi-unit signal is positioned at the lower compartment of the unit, aligning with the driver's eye level.

Small holes in the signal unit's base allow for alignment along the train's path, ensuring the beam of light is directed accurately.

Multi-unit color light signals are fitted with lugs and apertures to enable accurate beam alignment towards the driver.

Expanded metal netting is sometimes used over the external lenses of multi-unit signals to prevent damage to the lenses.

Steel backgrounds are used to increase the visibility of multi-unit color light signals.

Ventilation holes are incorporated into the signal cover to allow air flow and prevent overheating within the signal unit.

Hoods are provided for each aspect of a multi-unit signal to shield the lens unit from external light sources.

Multi-unit signals do not utilize reflectors. This prevents external light sources, like headlights, from being reflected back through the lens and creating misleading signals.

A type of railway signal that displays different colored lights to indicate to train drivers whether to proceed, stop, or take other actions. It is used for controlling the movement of trains in complex situations.

A type of railway lamp commonly used in signals, specified by British Standard (B.S.) 469, with various wattage and voltage ratings. It produces a concentrated light beam.

A specific type of railway signal lamp with a red end piece and a yellow end piece connected by a position light junction. Offers different aspects depending on the lighting configuration.

A railway signal that displays multiple aspects using a lamp with series connections. The lamp can be illuminated with a bulb or filaments, making it versatile.

A standardized table containing technical specifications for different types of railway signalling lamps, including their purpose, wattage and voltage ratings.

A type of relay that monitors the main filament of a triple pole lamp and switches on the auxiliary filament when the main filament is fused.

The primary filament in a triple pole lamp, responsible for providing the main signal aspect.

A secondary filament in a triple pole lamp, used as a backup when the main filament burns out.

A resistor used in series with the MECR to prioritize the main filament when the aspect is switched on.

Signal lamps used for displaying aspects using multiple lights arranged in a specific configuration.

A component used in the triple pole lamp circuit, providing a delayed release to prevent false indication during aspect changes.

An indication given by the MECR when the main filament of a triple pole lamp is fused, indicating a failure.

A strategy used in railway signaling to provide common maintenance indications for a group of signals, often employed due to limited conductors.

A type of current transformer used in signal systems. It produces a smaller, proportional AC voltage from a larger AC current. This voltage is then used to activate the signal.

A component in signal systems responsible for checking the condition of a signal lamp. It operates based on the voltage across the lamp, detecting if the lamp is working or not.

A transformer type specifically designed for low current circuits, typically in the range of 300 mA. It's used in signal lamp systems where the primary winding receives a small current and the secondary winding produces a higher voltage, often around 9V.

Key features:

• Low current handling capacity (around 300 mA)
• Voltage conversion (small input current produces a higher output voltage)
• Used in signal lamp circuits for direct feed from the cabin, both for AC RE and non-RE areas

A relay that duplicates the state of the ECR in the control cabin. The repeater relay is activated when the ECR picks up and drops when the ECR drops, indicating the lamp status in the cabin.

A method used for monitoring signals in train systems. It involves an L-type transformer connected in series with the signal lamp circuit, providing a current reading to indicate the signal status.

Key Features:

• Used in conjunction with L-type transformers
• Transformer connected in series with the signal lamps to monitor current
• Suitable for direct feed from the cabin, both for AC RE and non-RE areas

A signal indication system that uses lamp checking relays (ECRs) to monitor the status of signal lamps and send that information to the control cabin.

One of the advantages of the ECR method. By using relays, it reduces the amount of voltage lost during the signal transmission, improving the signal strength and reliability.

The ECR method uses the L-type transformer to monitor current in the signal lamp circuit. The current flowing through the primary winding of the transformer is proportional to the signal lamp's status. This provides a way to determine if the signal lamp is operating correctly.

The L-type transformer in the ECR method is designed for low currents, typically found in signal lamp circuits. It's a key component for monitoring the signal lamps' operation.

The process of making a signal lamp glow, indicating a specific condition to the driver. This process involves various relays and electrical connections.

The L-type transformer in the ECR method has a secondary winding that produces a voltage proportional to the current flowing through the primary winding (which is connected to the signal lamp circuit). This voltage output can be used to monitor and diagnose the status of the signal lamp.

A signal lamp that provides information to the driver in the control cabin. This lamp is controlled by the repeater relay which reflects the status of the ECR.

The circuit responsible for transmitting signal lamp information from the control cabin to the location of the ECR using repeater relays. Allows remote monitoring of the signal lamp status.

A signal that indicates to the driver that the train can proceed safely at the maximum permissible speed, meaning they can run as fast as the track allows.

A type of signal lamp using light-emitting diodes (LEDs), offering a longer lifespan (over 100,000 hours), and improved reliability compared to traditional filament lamps.

This occurs when a signal fails to display any aspect, potentially causing confusion and danger for the driver.

The estimated amount of time a filament lamp in a signal can function before needing replacement.

Adding a second Distant Signal further ahead, providing additional warning to the driver, enhancing safety and allowing the train to maintain its maximum speed.

The point where the train has either arrived on the main line or passed through the main line, triggering the Distant signal to display the green aspect.

The action of the Distant signal changing to green, indicating the track ahead is clear for the train to proceed.