ThunderFox Interactive - User contributions [en]

Basics of German Railway Signalling

2025-07-12T13:36:40Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor: 1

=== Early development ===
From the early 19th century onwards, the railway, as the engine of the industrial revolution, spread rapidly throughout Europe and also reached Germany in 1835. Here, the first train travelled between Nuremberg and Fürth, reaching top speeds of up to 50 km/h. Despite initial scepticism, the new means of transport quickly spread throughout the country. In particular, the high efficiency of the railway, achieved through the low friction of the wheel-rail system used, surpassed any other means of transport known at the time and even exceeded the car to this day.
[[File:Ebf gotha mech.jpg|alt=Mechanical interlocking type "Einheit" at the railway school "Eisenbahnbetriebsfeld Gotha"|thumb|Mechanical interlocking type "Einheit" at the railway school "Eisenbahnbetriebsfeld Gotha"]]
However, this system also created the biggest disadvantage of the railway: the extremely long braking distance of the locomotives and carriages, which can be up to 1000 metres for modern trains travelling at speeds up to 160 km/h. This makes it impossible to operate a railway line like a road at a visual distance. Initially, this problem was irrelevant, as only one train ran at a time on most railway lines anyway. The connection of the networks of individual private railways to form a nationwide rail network and the introduction of through express trains between metropolises brought this difficulty back to the fore.

The most obvious solution was the time interval regulation: trains were only allowed to leave a station towards the ''free track'' a prescribed time interval after the last train. It was only necessary to wait a few minutes after fast passenger trains, but a quarter to half of an hour after much slower freight trains. Not only was this regulation inefficient, but it also led to several railway accidents caused by inattentive railway staff or trains broken down on the track. So in the mid-1860s, work began again on a new solution to this problem.

=== Train operation with block signaling ===
In the 1860s, partly due to the invention of early railway signals, ''travelling with block signaling'' emerged as a solution to this problem. The system proved its worth, was introduced by law on all lines in 1907 and is still the most important guideline in German railway traffic today. It can be described as follows:<blockquote>Railway lines are divided into different ''block sections'' by signals. Only '''one train''' at a time is allowed in each block section. If a train is travelling through a block section, the signal behind it must be set to '<nowiki/>'''stop'<nowiki/>'''. It may only be switched back to '<nowiki/>'''go'''' when the train has left the block section and the following signal is set to 'stop'.</blockquote>This can be illustrated graphically as follows:
[[File:Blocksection a.png|thumb|1078x1078px]]Now a train is to pass the first block section. All signals '''A''', '''B''', '''C''' are set to the 'go' position by the responsible signal boxes.
[[File:Blocksection b.png|thumb|1078x1078px]]
After the train has entered the first block section, signal '''A''' behind it is set to 'stop'. No other train can now follow it into the occupied block section.
[[File:Blocksection c.png|thumb|1078x1078px]]
The first train is followed by a second, yellow train. Meanwhile, the first, red train has left the first block section and entered the second one - section signal '''B''' is falls into the 'stop' position. Section signal '''A''' can then be set back to the 'go' position.
[[File:Blocksection d.png|thumb|1072x1072px]]
The yellow train now enters the first block section. The first block signal '''A''' then switches to the 'stop' position.
[[File:Blocksection e.png|thumb|1074x1074px]]
In the following, section signal B for the yellow train cannot be set to the 'go' position. Although the following block section is already free, signal C is not in the 'stop' position. The yellow train could pass signal C and would be in a block section with the red train.
[[File:Blocksection f.png|thumb|1074x1074px]]
Once signal C has been brought to the 'stop' position, the yellow train can also finally section B.
[[File:Blocksection g.png|thumb|1074x1074px]]

==== The train reporting procedure ====
At the beginning of the railway, the distances for signal operations were quite short, up to a maximum of 1000 m away from the signal box. As a result, most lines had many signal boxes only for operating the section signals, so-called ''block posts''. Communication between these block posts and stations was necessary to ensure that there was really only one train in a block section at any one time. Initially, this took place via optical telegraphy or Morse code, but later via cable telephones. To avoid misunderstandings - with potentially fatal consequences - the ''train reporting procedure'' was introduced, which recognises standardised messages and wording for the most important operational events.

Knowledge of move messages is essential for playing the game. While the exact wording and use cases are listed in another article, an overview of the most important move messages is provided here.

It is important to understand the distinction between the so-called train reporting point and the train following point. '''Train reporting points''', such as stations or junctions, can change the order of trains. Therefore, a departure report must be made to the next train reporting point for each train. In addition, an arrival report is sent for each train to the past train reporting point or train following point. '''Train following points''', for example block posts, cannot change the train order, but only divide a route into several block sections. Train following points do not give departure reports, but only provide arrival report for each train to the past train reporting point or train following point.

===== Train reporting procedure on double-track line =====
Applied to a double-track line, where each track can only be used in one direction, the train reporting procedure looks like this:

* If a train reporting point wishes to admit a train to a section of track, it must first issue a '''departure report'''. The train number and the estimated departure time are communicated to the neighboring train reporting point. If there are train following points between these train reporting points, they listen to the departure report without saying anything. A departure report may only be made if a train arrival report has been given for the last train on the route.

Basics of German Railway Signalling

2025-06-30T11:39:25Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor: /* Train reporting procedure on double-track line */

=== Early development ===
From the early 19th century onwards, the railway, as the engine of the industrial revolution, spread rapidly throughout Europe and also reached Germany in 1835. Here, the first train travelled between Nuremberg and Fürth, reaching top speeds of up to 50 km/h. Despite initial scepticism, the new means of transport quickly spread throughout the country. In particular, the high efficiency of the railway, achieved through the low friction of the wheel-rail system used, surpassed any other means of transport known at the time and even exceeded the car to this day.
[[File:Ebf gotha mech.jpg|alt=Mechanical interlocking type "Einheit" at the railway school "Eisenbahnbetriebsfeld Gotha"|thumb|Mechanical interlocking type "Einheit" at the railway school "Eisenbahnbetriebsfeld Gotha"]]
However, this system also created the biggest disadvantage of the railway: the extremely long braking distance of the locomotives and carriages, which can be up to 1000 metres for modern trains travelling at speeds up to 160 km/h. This makes it impossible to operate a railway line like a road at a visual distance. Initially, this problem was irrelevant, as only one train ran at a time on most railway lines anyway. The connection of the networks of individual private railways to form a nationwide rail network and the introduction of through express trains between metropolises brought this difficulty back to the fore.

The most obvious solution was the time interval regulation: trains were only allowed to leave a station towards the ''free track'' a prescribed time interval after the last train. It was only necessary to wait a few minutes after fast passenger trains, but a quarter to half of an hour after much slower freight trains. Not only was this regulation inefficient, but it also led to several railway accidents caused by inattentive railway staff or trains broken down on the track. So in the mid-1860s, work began again on a new solution to this problem.

=== Train operation with block signaling ===
In the 1860s, partly due to the invention of early railway signals, ''travelling with block signaling'' emerged as a solution to this problem. The system proved its worth, was introduced by law on all lines in 1907 and is still the most important guideline in German railway traffic today. It can be described as follows:<blockquote>Railway lines are divided into different ''block sections'' by signals. Only '''one train''' at a time is allowed in each block section. If a train is travelling through a block section, the signal behind it must be set to '<nowiki/>'''stop'<nowiki/>'''. It may only be switched back to '<nowiki/>'''go'''' when the train has left the block section and the following signal is set to 'stop'.</blockquote>This can be illustrated graphically as follows:
[[File:Blocksection a.png|thumb|1078x1078px|Drawing of the block sections on a single-track line with direction of travel left to right. All signals are currently in the stop position]]Now a train is to pass the first block section. All signals '''A''', '''B''', '''C''' are set to the 'go' position by the responsible signal boxes.
[[File:Blocksection b.png|thumb|1078x1078px|All section signals in go position. The train is approaching section signal A.]]
After the train has entered the first block section, signal '''A''' behind it is set to 'stop'. No other train can now follow it into the occupied block section.
[[File:Blocksection c.png|thumb|1078x1078px|The train has entered block section A, the related section signal is in stop position.]]
The first train is followed by a second, yellow train. Meanwhile, the first, red train has left the first block section and entered the second one - section signal '''B''' is falls into the 'stop' position. Section signal '''A''' can then be set back to the 'go' position.
[[File:Blocksection d.png|thumb|1072x1072px|Now, a second train appears ready to enter block section A. Meanwhile, the first train has left block section A and entered section B. Section signal A is now in go position, section signal B in stop position.]]
The yellow train now enters the first block section. The first block signal '''A''' then switches to the 'stop' position.
[[File:Blocksection e.png|thumb|1074x1074px|Block sections A and B are occupied by the yellow and red trains. Signals A and B are therefore in the stop position.]]
In the following, section signal B for the yellow train cannot be set to the 'go' position. Although the following block section is already free, signal C is not in the 'stop' position. The yellow train could pass signal C and would be in a block section with the red train.
[[File:Blocksection f.png|thumb|1074x1074px|Block sections A and C are occupied. Although block section B is already free, signal B cannot be set to 'go' because signal C is also still showing 'go'.]]
Once signal C has been brought to the 'stop' position, the yellow train can also finally section B.
[[File:Blocksection g.png|thumb|1074x1074px|Block section C is occupied, while the yellow train is entering block section B.]]

==== The train reporting procedure ====
At the beginning of the railway, the distances for signal operations were quite short, up to a maximum of 1000 m away from the signal box. As a result, most lines had many signal boxes only for operating the section signals, so-called ''block posts''. Communication between these block posts and stations was necessary to ensure that there was really only one train in a block section at any one time. Initially, this took place via optical telegraphy or Morse code, but later via cable telephones. To avoid misunderstandings - with potentially fatal consequences - the ''train reporting procedure'' was introduced, which recognises standardised messages and wording for the most important operational events.

Knowledge of move messages is essential for playing the game. While the exact wording and use cases are listed in another article, an overview of the most important move messages is provided here.

It is important to understand the distinction between the so-called train reporting point and the train following point. '''Train reporting points''', such as stations or junctions, can change the order of trains. Therefore, a departure report must be made to the next train reporting point for each train. In addition, an arrival report is sent for each train to the past train reporting point or train following point. '''Train following points''', for example block posts, cannot change the train order, but only divide a route into several block sections. Train following points do not give departure reports, but only provide arrival report for each train to the past train reporting point or train following point.

===== Train reporting procedure on double-track line =====
Applied to a double-track line, where each track can only be used in one direction, the train reporting procedure looks like this:

* If a train reporting point wishes to admit a train to a section of track, it must first issue a '''departure report'''. The train number and the estimated departure time are communicated to the neighboring train reporting point. If there are train following points between these train reporting points, they listen to the departure report without saying anything. A departure report may only be made if a train arrival report has been given for the last train on the route.

Basics of German Railway Signalling

2025-06-30T11:29:48Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor: change

=== Early development ===
From the early 19th century onwards, the railway, as the engine of the industrial revolution, spread rapidly throughout Europe and also reached Germany in 1835. Here, the first train travelled between Nuremberg and Fürth, reaching top speeds of up to 50 km/h. Despite initial scepticism, the new means of transport quickly spread throughout the country. In particular, the high efficiency of the railway, achieved through the low friction of the wheel-rail system used, surpassed any other means of transport known at the time and even exceeded the car to this day.
[[File:Ebf gotha mech.jpg|alt=Mechanical interlocking type "Einheit" at the railway school "Eisenbahnbetriebsfeld Gotha"|thumb|Mechanical interlocking type "Einheit" at the railway school "Eisenbahnbetriebsfeld Gotha"]]
However, this system also created the biggest disadvantage of the railway: the extremely long braking distance of the locomotives and carriages, which can be up to 1000 metres for modern trains travelling at speeds up to 160 km/h. This makes it impossible to operate a railway line like a road at a visual distance. Initially, this problem was irrelevant, as only one train ran at a time on most railway lines anyway. The connection of the networks of individual private railways to form a nationwide rail network and the introduction of through express trains between metropolises brought this difficulty back to the fore.

The most obvious solution was the time interval regulation: trains were only allowed to leave a station towards the ''free track'' a prescribed time interval after the last train. It was only necessary to wait a few minutes after fast passenger trains, but a quarter to half of an hour after much slower freight trains. Not only was this regulation inefficient, but it also led to several railway accidents caused by inattentive railway staff or trains broken down on the track. So in the mid-1860s, work began again on a new solution to this problem.

=== Train operation with block signaling ===
In the 1860s, partly due to the invention of early railway signals, ''travelling with block signaling'' emerged as a solution to this problem. The system proved its worth, was introduced by law on all lines in 1907 and is still the most important guideline in German railway traffic today. It can be described as follows:<blockquote>Railway lines are divided into different ''block sections'' by signals. Only '''one train''' at a time is allowed in each block section. If a train is travelling through a block section, the signal behind it must be set to '<nowiki/>'''stop'<nowiki/>'''. It may only be switched back to '<nowiki/>'''go'''' when the train has left the block section and the following signal is set to 'stop'.</blockquote>This can be illustrated graphically as follows:
[[File:Blocksection a.png|thumb|1078x1078px|Drawing of the block sections on a single-track line with direction of travel left to right. All signals are currently in the stop position]]Now a train is to pass the first block section. All signals '''A''', '''B''', '''C''' are set to the 'go' position by the responsible signal boxes.
[[File:Blocksection b.png|thumb|1078x1078px|All section signals in go position. The train is approaching section signal A.]]
After the train has entered the first block section, signal '''A''' behind it is set to 'stop'. No other train can now follow it into the occupied block section.
[[File:Blocksection c.png|thumb|1078x1078px|The train has entered block section A, the related section signal is in stop position.]]
The first train is followed by a second, yellow train. Meanwhile, the first, red train has left the first block section and entered the second one - section signal '''B''' is falls into the 'stop' position. Section signal '''A''' can then be set back to the 'go' position.
[[File:Blocksection d.png|thumb|1072x1072px|Now, a second train appears ready to enter block section A. Meanwhile, the first train has left block section A and entered section B. Section signal A is now in go position, section signal B in stop position.]]
The yellow train now enters the first block section. The first block signal '''A''' then switches to the 'stop' position.
[[File:Blocksection e.png|thumb|1074x1074px|Block sections A and B are occupied by the yellow and red trains. Signals A and B are therefore in the stop position.]]
In the following, section signal B for the yellow train cannot be set to the 'go' position. Although the following block section is already free, signal C is not in the 'stop' position. The yellow train could pass signal C and would be in a block section with the red train.
[[File:Blocksection f.png|thumb|1074x1074px|Block sections A and C are occupied. Although block section B is already free, signal B cannot be set to 'go' because signal C is also still showing 'go'.]]
Once signal C has been brought to the 'stop' position, the yellow train can also finally section B.
[[File:Blocksection g.png|thumb|1074x1074px|Block section C is occupied, while the yellow train is entering block section B.]]

==== The train reporting procedure ====
At the beginning of the railway, the distances for signal operations were quite short, up to a maximum of 1000 m away from the signal box. As a result, most lines had many signal boxes only for operating the section signals, so-called ''block posts''. Communication between these block posts and stations was necessary to ensure that there was really only one train in a block section at any one time. Initially, this took place via optical telegraphy or Morse code, but later via cable telephones. To avoid misunderstandings - with potentially fatal consequences - the ''train reporting procedure'' was introduced, which recognises standardised messages and wording for the most important operational events.

Knowledge of move messages is essential for playing the game. While the exact wording and use cases are listed in another article, an overview of the most important move messages is provided here.

It is important to understand the distinction between the so-called train reporting point and the train following point. '''Train reporting points''', such as stations or junctions, can change the order of trains. Therefore, a departure report must be made to the next train reporting point for each train. In addition, an arrival report is sent for each train to the past train reporting point or train following point. '''Train following points''', for example block posts, cannot change the train order, but only divide a route into several block sections. Train following points do not give departure reports, but only provide arrival report for each train to the past train reporting point or train following point.

===== Train reporting procedure on double-track line =====
Applied to a double-track line, where each track can only be used in one direction, the train reporting procedure looks like this:

File:Relayroom.jpg

2025-06-13T13:51:09Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor:

Relay room of an electrical signal box in the railway school ‘Eisenbahnbetriebsfeld Gotha’

SignalSim:Getting Started

2025-05-22T15:13:13Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor: /* 📚 Essential Guides */

= 🚉 Getting Started with SignalSim =

Welcome to '''SignalSim''', a realistic signalling simulator inspired by German railway operations! Whether you're eager to manage signal boxes or take the controls as a train driver, this guide will help you get up and running.

== 🎮 What Is SignalSim? ==

''SignalSim'' lets you experience two main roles:

'''🔧 Signaller''' — Take control of mechanical signal boxes, set routes, and ensure safe train movement through points and signals.

'''🚆 Driver''' — Hop in the cab and experience the railway from the front line, responding to signals and working with dispatch.

''SignalSim'' aims for '''realism''', especially in traditional '''mechanical signalling systems''' used in Germany.

== ✅ Before You Begin ==

Make sure to:

Join our [https://roblox.thunder-fox.net Roblox Group] for access and updates.

Follow our [https://tiktok.thunder-fox.net TikTok] for sneak peeks and clips.

<blockquote>'''❗ Note:''' There is '''no release date planned''' — please be patient! Screenshots and devlogs are released '''irregularly'''.</blockquote>
== 👷 Choose Your Role ==

=== 🛠 Signaller ===

Use levers to operate points and signals.

Monitor train movements.

Coordinate with other signal boxes to prevent collisions.

=== 🚆 Driver ===

Drive trains between stations.

Obey signals and signs.

Respond to instructions from the signal box.

''Both roles are vital to keeping the railway running smoothly!''

== 📚 Essential Guides ==

Explore the core systems of SignalSim in detail:

[[Basics of German Railway Signalling|🚦 '''Basics of German Railway Signaling''']] - Understand the basics of railway signalling in Germany and after which principles every interlocking works

🚦 '''[[Signals Guide|Signals Guide]]''' – Understand how German mechanical signals work, what the aspects mean, and how to read them as both a driver and signaller.

🧱 '''[[Station Block Guide|Station Block Guide]]''' – Learn how station blocks function, how to grant or request access, and how to operate within them safely.

📏 '''[[Section Block Guide|Section Block Guide]]''' – Dive into section blocks — used for line sections between stations. Learn token/block exchange and working procedures.

''More guides are being added regularly — check back often!''

== 🙋 Need Help? ==

Have questions or suggestions? Join our community via the [https://roblox.thunder-fox.net Roblox group] or check the '''[[FAQ]]''' on the main page.

Basics of German Railway Signalling

2025-05-22T15:12:26Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor: added the block traffic

=== Early development ===
From the early 19th century onwards, the railway, as the engine of the industrial revolution, spread rapidly throughout Europe and also reached Germany in 1835. Here, the first train travelled between Nuremberg and Fürth, reaching top speeds of up to 50 km/h. Despite initial scepticism, the new means of transport quickly spread throughout the country. In particular, the high efficiency of the railway, achieved through the low friction of the wheel-rail system used, surpassed any other means of transport known at the time and even exceeded the car to this day.
[[File:Ebf gotha mech.jpg|alt=Mechanical interlocking type "Einheit" at the railway school "Eisenbahnbetriebsfeld Gotha"|thumb|Mechanical interlocking type "Einheit" at the railway school "Eisenbahnbetriebsfeld Gotha"]]
However, this system also created the biggest disadvantage of the railway: the extremely long braking distance of the locomotives and carriages, which can be up to 1000 metres for modern trains travelling at speeds up to 160 km/h. This makes it impossible to operate a railway line like a road at a visual distance. Initially, this problem was irrelevant, as only one train ran at a time on most railway lines anyway. The connection of the networks of individual private railways to form a nationwide rail network and the introduction of through express trains between metropolises brought this difficulty back to the fore.

The most obvious solution was the time interval regulation: trains were only allowed to leave a station towards the ''free track'' a prescribed time interval after the last train. It was only necessary to wait a few minutes after fast passenger trains, but a quarter to half of an hour after much slower freight trains. Not only was this regulation inefficient, but it also led to several railway accidents caused by inattentive railway staff or trains broken down on the track. So in the mid-1860s, work began again on a new solution to this problem.

=== Train operation with block signaling ===
In the 1860s, partly due to the invention of early railway signals, ''travelling with block signaling'' emerged as a solution to this problem. The system proved its worth, was introduced by law on all lines in 1907 and is still the most important guideline in German railway traffic today. It can be described as follows:<blockquote>Railway lines are divided into different ''block sections'' by signals. Only '''one train''' at a time is allowed in each block section. If a train is travelling through a block section, the signal behind it must be set to '<nowiki/>'''stop'<nowiki/>'''. It may only be switched back to '<nowiki/>'''go'''' when the train has left the block section and the following signal is set to 'stop'.</blockquote>This can be illustrated graphically as follows:
[[File:Blocksection a.png|thumb|1078x1078px|Drawing of the block sections on a single-track line with direction of travel left to right. All signals are currently in the stop position]]Now a train is to pass the first block section. All signals '''A''', '''B''', '''C''' are set to the 'go' position by the responsible signal boxes.
[[File:Blocksection b.png|thumb|1078x1078px|All section signals in go position. The train is approaching section signal A.]]
After the train has entered the first block section, signal '''A''' behind it is set to 'stop'. No other train can now follow it into the occupied block section.
[[File:Blocksection c.png|thumb|1078x1078px|The train has entered block section A, the related section signal is in stop position.]]
The first train is followed by a second, yellow train. Meanwhile, the first, red train has left the first block section and entered the second one - section signal '''B''' is falls into the 'stop' position. Section signal '''A''' can then be set back to the 'go' position.
[[File:Blocksection d.png|thumb|1072x1072px|Now, a second train appears ready to enter block section A. Meanwhile, the first train has left block section A and entered section B. Section signal A is now in go position, section signal B in stop position.]]
The yellow train now enters the first block section. The first block signal '''A''' then switches to the 'stop' position.
[[File:Blocksection e.png|thumb|1074x1074px|Block sections A and B are occupied by the yellow and red trains. Signals A and B are therefore in the stop position.]]
In the following, section signal B for the yellow train cannot be set to the 'go' position. Although the following block section is already free, signal C is not in the 'stop' position. The yellow train could pass signal C and would be in a block section with the red train.
[[File:Blocksection f.png|thumb|1074x1074px|Block sections A and C are occupied. Although block section B is already free, signal B cannot be set to 'go' because signal C is also still showing 'go'.]]
Once signal C has been brought to the 'stop' position, the yellow train can also finally section B.
[[File:Blocksection g.png|thumb|1074x1074px|Block section C is occupied, while the yellow train is entering block section B.]]

==== The train reporting procedure ====
At the beginning of the railway, the distances for signal operations were quite short, up to a maximum of 1000 m away from the signal box. As a result, most lines had many signal boxes only for operating the section signals, so-called ''block posts''. Communication between these block posts and stations was necessary to ensure that there was really only one train in a block section at any one time. Initially, this took place via optical telegraphy or Morse code, but later via cable telephones. To avoid misunderstandings - with potentially fatal consequences - the ''train reporting procedure'' was introduced, which recognises standardised messages and wording for the most important operational events.

''This article provides a rough overview of the most important train reporting messages. For a detailed explanation, please click (here).''

File:Blocksection f.png

2025-05-22T15:01:25Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor:

Block section diagram, image 6

File:Blocksection g.png

2025-05-22T15:00:35Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor:

Block section diagram, image 7

File:Blocksection e.png

2025-05-22T14:55:16Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor:

Block section diagram, image 5

File:Blocksection d.png

2025-05-22T14:50:27Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor:

Block section diagram, image IV

File:Blocksection c.png

2025-05-22T14:43:16Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor:

The train has entered the first block section, the signal behind it is set to 'stop'

File:Blocksection b.png

2025-05-22T14:39:34Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor:

A train approaches the first block section

Basics of German Railway Signalling

2025-05-22T14:37:32Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor: small edit

File:Blocksection a.png

2025-05-22T14:35:45Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor:

Diagram of a block line

File:Ebf gotha mech.jpg

2025-05-22T13:58:21Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor:

Mechanical interlocking type "Einheit" at the railway school "Eisenbahnbetriebsfeld Gotha"

Basics of German Railway Signalling

2025-05-22T03:48:30Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor: small changes

SignalSim:Getting Started

2025-05-22T03:43:29Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor: edited layout

= 🚉 Getting Started with SignalSim =

Welcome to '''SignalSim''', a realistic signalling simulator inspired by German railway operations! Whether you're eager to manage signal boxes or take the controls as a train driver, this guide will help you get up and running.

== 🎮 What Is SignalSim? ==

''SignalSim'' lets you experience two main roles:

'''🔧 Signaller''' — Take control of mechanical signal boxes, set routes, and ensure safe train movement through points and signals.

'''🚆 Driver''' — Hop in the cab and experience the railway from the front line, responding to signals and working with dispatch.

''SignalSim'' aims for '''realism''', especially in traditional '''mechanical signalling systems''' used in Germany.

== ✅ Before You Begin ==

Make sure to:

Join our [https://roblox.thunder-fox.net Roblox Group] for access and updates.

Follow our [https://tiktok.thunder-fox.net TikTok] for sneak peeks and clips.

<blockquote>'''❗ Note:''' There is '''no release date planned''' — please be patient! Screenshots and devlogs are released '''irregularly'''.</blockquote>
== 👷 Choose Your Role ==

=== 🛠 Signaller ===

Use levers to operate points and signals.

Monitor train movements.

Coordinate with other signal boxes to prevent collisions.

=== 🚆 Driver ===

Drive trains between stations.

Obey signals and signs.

Respond to instructions from the signal box.

''Both roles are vital to keeping the railway running smoothly!''

== 📚 Essential Guides ==

Explore the core systems of SignalSim in detail:

[[Basics of German Railway Signalling|🚦 '''Basics of German Railway Signalling''']] - Understand the basics of railway signalling in Germany and after which principles every interlocking works

🚦 '''[[Signals Guide|Signals Guide]]''' – Understand how German mechanical signals work, what the aspects mean, and how to read them as both a driver and signaller.

🧱 '''[[Station Block Guide|Station Block Guide]]''' – Learn how station blocks function, how to grant or request access, and how to operate within them safely.

📏 '''[[Section Block Guide|Section Block Guide]]''' – Dive into section blocks — used for line sections between stations. Learn token/block exchange and working procedures.

''More guides are being added regularly — check back often!''

== 🙋 Need Help? ==

Have questions or suggestions? Join our community via the [https://roblox.thunder-fox.net Roblox group] or check the '''[[FAQ]]''' on the main page.

Basics of German Railway Signalling

2025-05-21T15:35:32Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor: Added Early developement

Basics of German Railway Signalling

2025-05-21T15:19:53Z

Reichsbahnoberinspektor: Added this page

Work in Progress

SignalSim:Getting Started

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Reichsbahnoberinspektor: Added the basics page

= 🚉 Getting Started with SignalSim =

Welcome to '''SignalSim''', a realistic signalling simulator inspired by German railway operations! Whether you're eager to manage signal boxes or take the controls as a train driver, this guide will help you get up and running.

== 🎮 What Is SignalSim? ==

''SignalSim'' lets you experience two main roles:

'''🔧 Signaller''' — Take control of mechanical signal boxes, set routes, and ensure safe train movement through points and signals.

'''🚆 Driver''' — Hop in the cab and experience the railway from the front line, responding to signals and working with dispatch.

''SignalSim'' aims for '''realism''', especially in traditional '''mechanical signalling systems''' used in Germany.

== ✅ Before You Begin ==

Make sure to:

Join our [https://roblox.thunder-fox.net Roblox Group] for access and updates.

Follow our [https://tiktok.thunder-fox.net TikTok] for sneak peeks and clips.

<blockquote>'''❗ Note:''' There is '''no release date planned''' — please be patient! Screenshots and devlogs are released '''irregularly'''.</blockquote>
== 👷 Choose Your Role ==

=== 🛠 Signaller ===

Use levers to operate points and signals.

Monitor train movements.

Coordinate with other signal boxes to prevent collisions.

=== 🚆 Driver ===

Drive trains between stations.

Obey signals and signs.

Respond to instructions from the signal box.

''Both roles are vital to keeping the railway running smoothly!''

== 📚 Essential Guides ==

Explore the core systems of SignalSim in detail:

[[Basics of German Railway Signalling|🚦 Basics of German Railway Signalling]] - Understand the basics of railway signalling in Germany and after which principles every interlocking works

🚦 '''[[Signals Guide|Signals Guide]]''' – Understand how German mechanical signals work, what the aspects mean, and how to read them as both a driver and signaller.

🧱 '''[[Station Block Guide|Station Block Guide]]''' – Learn how station blocks function, how to grant or request access, and how to operate within them safely.

📏 '''[[Section Block Guide|Section Block Guide]]''' – Dive into section blocks — used for line sections between stations. Learn token/block exchange and working procedures.

''More guides are being added regularly — check back often!''

== 🙋 Need Help? ==

Have questions or suggestions? Join our community via the [https://roblox.thunder-fox.net Roblox group] or check the '''[[FAQ]]''' on the main page.

File:Hv48 hp0.jpg

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Reichsbahnoberinspektor:

Color light signal type H/V 1948

File:Hl3a zs2.jpg

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Reichsbahnoberinspektor:

Color light signal type Hl with additional signal Zs2 in Riesa

Signals Guide

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Reichsbahnoberinspektor: added the table

= The virtual Ril 301 - how German railway signals work =

=== Introduction ===
In order to describe the operational processes of railway traffic, it is necessary to move away from comparisons with road transport. Due to the long braking distance of the trains, it is not possible for them to travel with the same sight distance as on the road. They therefore need an instance that gives them a stop or run order at a sufficient distance: a signal.

In Germany, various railway signals have been developed for the safe operation of the railways. A signal is defined as a stationary or mobile device that transmits information about the next section of track to the driver. All signals and their ''signal aspects'' - all available display options for a signal - in the German railway network are set out in Regulation '''Ril 301''', the so-called Signal Book.

=== Classification ===
Despite their different appearance, the same signal terms for shape and light signals always have the same operational meaning. Although the combination of different signal systems at one train station should be avoided, there are many deviations from this practice, particularly in eastern Germany, especially with very long setting distances.

==== Classification according to function ====

* '''Main signals (Hauptsignale):''' These are used to indicate to the driver whether and at what speed he may pass the next section of track
* '''Distant signals (Vorsignale)''': These announce to the train driver the term of the main signal in the braking distance
* '''Multi-section signals (Mehrabschnittssignale):''' combine the function of the main and distant signal at one signal and already announce the position of the next signal
* '''Additional and other signals:''' supplement the information of the main signals and fulfill other tasks. Thes
* '''Visual and acoustic signals (Handzeichen, akustische Signale):''' these are given by whistles, horns or movable signal boards by the railroad personnel and are used, for example, for stopping trains in an emergency

==== Classification according to appearance ====

* '''Semaphore signal (Formsignal)''': displays the signal aspect with up to two movable ''signal arms'' or ''signal disks''.
* '''Color light signal (Lichtsignal):''' uses various multicolored illuminated optics to display the signal terms
* '''Additional signals (Zusatzsignale):''' these are located at main signals and distant signals and provide additional information to the signal term, for example a speed indication.
* '''Other stationary signals:''' this particularly large group of signals includes all signals - usually reflective signal boards - that are not assignable to main signals or distant signals on the open track
* '''Visual and acoustic signals (Handzeichen, akustische Signale):''' these are given by whistles, horns or movable signal boards by the railroad personnel and are used, for example, for stopping trains in an emergency
Despite their different appearance, the same signal terms for shape and light signals always have the same operational meaning.

=== Signal systems in Germany ===
Over the past 150 years, a wide variety of signaling systems have been developed in Germany on the basis of the above classifications. These are listed in the following table. It is important to understand that many signaling systems cannot be assigned to just one category, overlap to some extent or are barely present or no longer present at all.

In addition, different signalling systems have also developed in the GDR and FRG, which have not yet been fully standardized. Ambiguous cases are listed and explained below the table

''Note: detailed articles are only available in the wiki for the signaling systems that are implemented in the game (underlined).''
{| class="wikitable"
!Short name
!Full name
!Type
!Aspects
!Description
!Application
|-
|H/V
|Haupt-, und Vorsignale
''Main signals and distant signals''
|Main-, & distant signals
Early semaphores, later color light signals
|Hp 0-2
Vr 0-2
|First all-German signal system, semaphore signals

Light signals from night signals of semaphore signals, widespread in West Germany, only isolated cases in the East after being replaced by the Hl system
|Semaphores: all of Germany
Light signals: almost only West Germany
|-
|Hl
|Hauptlichtsignale
''Main light signals''
|Main-, & distant signals, multi-section signals
|Hp0,
Hl 1-12b
|Implementation of the common traffic light system of all Eastern Bloc countries in East Germany
Widespread usage of multi-section signals, 4 speed levels with 16 signal aspects
|Only East Germany
|-
|Ks
|Kombinationssignale
''Combination signals''
|Main-, & distant signals, multi-section signals
|Hp0
Ks 1-2
|All-German color light system after reunification, further development of the Sk and Hl systems

Widespread usage of multi-section signals, only three signal terms, all speed information via Zs signals
|All of Germany
|-
|Sk
|Signalkombinationen
''Signal combinations''
|Main-, & distant signals, multi-section signals
|Hp0
Sk 1-2
|Operational trial by the West German railroads to introduce multi-section signalization on the Augsburg-Donauwörth line
Further projects never implemented, but basis for the development of the Ks system
|Only on the track Augsburg - Donauwörth (West Germany)
|-
|Sv
|Signalverbindungen
''Connected signals''
|Only multi-section signals
|Hp0,
Sv 0-6
|Early multi-section signaling for closely timed city rail lines (S-Bahn) in Berlin and Hamburg based on the H/V system

Introduced in Berlin in the late 1920s, taken out of service until 2006. Widely used in Hamburg since around 1950
|Only at the S-Bahn Hamburg
|-
|Zs
|Zusatzsignale
''Additional signals''
|Positionable additional signals on main, distant or multi-section signals
|Zs 1-3
Zs 6-10
Zs 12-13
Zs 103
|Light signals or signal boards to supplement main signal terms, for example for speed signaling

Often integrated into the signal in question, in rare cases stand-alone
|All of Germany
|-
|Ts
|Signale für Schiebelokomotiven und Sperrfahrten
''Signals for banking locomotives and blocking movements''
|Positionable signals
|Ts 1-3
|Signals for banking locomotives and movements on closed tracks against the usual direction of travel on a line

Only installed on routes with regular banking traffic, signals Ts 2 and 3 no longer exist due to more modern operating procedures
|All of Germany - hardly used, Ts2/3 practically already non-existent
|-
|Lf
|Langsamfahrsignale
''Slow speed signals''
|Non-positionable, non-movable signal boards
|Lf 1-7
|Signaling and announcement of speed changes on the open track
|All of Germany, Lf 4/5 in East and West Germany different
|-
|Sh
|Schutzhaltesignale
''Protective stop signals''
|Positionable, non-movable signals,
Manual and acoustic signals
|Sh 0-2
Sh 3, 5
|Signaling of driving bans for trains and shunting movements and lifting of these

Signaling of track closures and emergency stop signals from station staff to trains
|All of Germany, signal aspect Sh1 mainly in West Germany
|-
|Ra
|Rangiersignale
''Shunting signals''
|Positionable, non-movable signals,
Non-positionable, non-movable signal boards,
Manual and acoustic signals
|Ra 6-9 Ra12*,
Ra 10-13 Ra12*,
Ra 1-5
|Signals that only apply to shunting movements, including hand signals for shunting coordination, signals for hump yard operations, aspects and non-movable signals for shunting operation
|All of Germany, signal aspect Ra12 just in West Germany
|-
|Wn
|Weichensignale
''Switch signals''
|Positionable, non-movable signals at switches
|Wn 1-7
|Position of the corresponding switch
|All of Germany
|-
|Zp
|Signale des Zugpersonals
''Signals of the railway personnel''
|Manual and acoustic signals
|Zp 1-12
|Signals of the railway personnel, e.g. to warn passengers, test the brakes and dispatch trains
|All of Germany
|-
|El
|Fahrleitungssignale
''Signals for electric trains''
|Non-positionable, non-movable signal boards
|El 1-6
|Signaling of overhead line separations and tracks without overhead lines for electric locomotives
|All of Germany
|-
|Zg
|Signale an Zügen
''Signals on trains''
|Movable signal boards on trains
|Zg 1-2
|Marking the head and tail of the train, especially for signal box personnel
|All of Germany
|-
|Fz
|Signale an einzelnen Fahrzeugen
''Signals on individual vehicles''
|Movable signal boards on individual vehicles and carriages
|Fz 1-2
|Marking during the stabling of occupied vehicles and shunting locomotives
|All of Germany
|-
|Ro
|Rottenwarnsignale
''Signals to warn track workers''
|Acoustic signals
|Ro 1-4
|Acoustic signals to warn track workers working during active train operation
|All of Germany
|-
|Ne / So
|Nebensignale / Sonstige Signale
''Other signals''
|Non-positionable, non-movable signal boards
|Ne 1-7, Ne 12-14, (So 1, 19, 106)
|Signal boards for various purposes that cannot be classified in the above categories
|So signals only in eastern Germany
|-
|Bü
|Signale für Bahnübergange
''Signals for level crossings''
|Positionable, non-movable signals,
Non-positionable, non-movable signal boards
|Bü 1-5,
Pf 2,
So 13-14
|Signals for announcing level crossings, orders for acoustic signals by the train driver, signals for level crossing closure confirmation
|So signals and Pf 2 only in eastern Germany
|}
<nowiki>*</nowiki> The Sh1 signal for shunting movements is called Ra12 in eastern Germany. The switch border signal, which is also called Ra12 in the west, is called So12 in the former GDR.

Signals Guide

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Reichsbahnoberinspektor: added table

Signals Guide

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Reichsbahnoberinspektor: stuff #1

File:Ne5 pzb.jpg

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Reichsbahnoberinspektor:

Signal board “Ne5” with additional PZB device as a replacement for an exit signal

Signals Guide

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Reichsbahnoberinspektor: added images #1

File:Kssignal.jpg

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Reichsbahnoberinspektor:

Color light signal type "Ks", combined with two additional signals "Zs2v" and "Zs3v"

File:Hp1 vr1.jpg

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Reichsbahnoberinspektor:

Two semaphore signals in Wolfenbüttel / Germany

Signals Guide

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Reichsbahnoberinspektor: Adding text