Development of a Network-based Signal Control System for Station Yards

This paper describes how more flexible transport services are in demand with recent sophistication and diversification of passenger needs. In fulfillng these needs, it is necessary to innovate signaling systems to those that are easy to improve, while maintaining current or higher safety and reliability. In light of that, the authors have been proceeding with the gradual development of a network-based signal control system. In this system, logic controllers in the signal area of the station and the field of signaling facilities are connected via an optical network, and control is digitally accomplished using conventional electric control. The paper explains the development concept of the network-based signal control system and the basic technologies of that. The paper also reports on the development of the signaling logic controller for station yards that is the final form of network-based signal control system for station yards and the status of field test of the controller.