Signalabschnitt

Signalabschnitt is a term used in railway signaling to denote a defined portion of track that is governed as a single unit by the signaling system. A Signalabschnitt is typically bounded by fixed signals, interlocking boundaries, or identifiable track features such as turnouts, and it represents the basic unit of protection in many block signaling arrangements.

The primary purpose of a signalabschnitt is to ensure safe train movements by controlling entry into the section and by reflecting occupancy status in the signaling sequence. The section is considered occupied when a train is within its boundaries, which prevents another train from entering until the section is clear. Occupancy is usually detected by track circuits, axle counters, or equivalent detectors, and this information is used by interlockings or dispatching systems to set the appropriate signal aspects at the section’s entrances and exits.

In operation, signals at the boundaries of a signalabschnitt convey whether a train may proceed, proceed with caution, or must stop. In automated systems, the interlocking automatically enforces these rules, while in older or less automated installations a human operator may be involved. The concept is closely related to block sections (Blockabschnitte) and is part of the larger signaling and safety infrastructure that governs train separation, sequencing, and capacity.

Historically, signalabschnitte appeared with mechanical and electrical signaling and have evolved with modern interlockings and train control systems. The exact terminology and implementation can vary by railway administration and signaling standard.