International Railway Signals
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Date
2015-07-26
Authors
Clearman, Brian
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Mount Angel Abbey
Abstract
This monograph is the second edition of International
Railway Signals. While it bears a substantial resemblance to
the original study (1991) there are substantial changes. Terminology is a significant problem with railway
safety devices. Signals, sign and markings were included in
that first edition but a wide range of T-M forms were omitted
including acoustical, radio aids and level/grade crossings. This
is true both of terms and content. The summary of terms in
this study contrasts with those of the railway database
volume (2009): signals, signals, markers. That newer work
includes a variety of terms not listed in the title and other
apparatus. The diversity of railway devices is compounded
by the lack of a more precise general term of railway signals
that can encompass other forms.
The earlier preface provided a sharp distinction
between signals and signalling (the former is primary; the
latter is peripheral). The latter term refers to the control and
operation of signals and accompanying safety appliances and
procedures (e.g., systems, block systems, interlockings, CTC,
electronic configurations). While signalling is not a core issue
in this study of apparatus devices producing messages and
meanings it is an integral element of this study.
The older edition often refers to messages but not the
meaning. While message might encompass the meaning it is
more accurate to speak of the physical appearance of the
messages, and the semiotic meaning that becomes attached to
the physical dimenson.
Description
288 pages
Keywords
Railway signals