One of the main elements of signalling is to ensure sufficient warning is given to drivers of where they need to stop, or reduce speed such as for a turnout. Clearly there needs to be a suitable braking distance between this warning and the stop signal or speed restriction.
The Central Queensland University post graduate course in Railway Signalling provides new signal engineers with a comprehensive, accelerated way to skill up in this specialised discipline.
This paper is presented around the course elements for train braking and signalling CPD 3, Signalling the layout Week 1, Topic 2 and 3, and Week 2 Topic 1 and expands on some of the practicalities and issues presented by train braking and its effect on signalling design and system capacity.