how do trains know which way to go .so they don't crash into one another. seen trains on same track but dif. d

Question

have seen trains on same track going in oppisite direction. at different times of the day

Answer 1

Simple - signaling, rail traffic control, and radio contact (or phone) with a dispatcher. Forget all the other answers about switches, other tracks, gps, and "getting too close" - traffic is controlled by signals and track warrant forms. GPS only plays into the act in dark territory (no signals) manual block. Single tracks are bi-directional, and double (or multi) tracked lines have set directions but can be bi-directional.

The dispatcher controls all movements, and on CTC (Centralized Traffic Control) has a trackboard that shows him where the trains are, and monitors the system. Many signals are automatic, but the dispatcher controls some. Signals and the track board aren't done by anything but a simple circuit -- the steel wheels in a train complete a circuit between the two rails, and voila. Many engines have cab signals which display the indication of the next signal they are approaching (many types, some only have two indications, clear and restricting, some display the actual signal, every one in the rule book, like ACSES).

Answer 2

The enginers watch the warning lights along the track which will let them know to stop if another train is coming. They also use radio communication. Schedualed stops are taken into consideration too where there is a short stretch of a second track where the one train will wait for the other to pass by operated by either a person operating the switches for the train to get to the waiting track or by sensors such as with railroad crossings. There are also tracking devices on the trains to which allow the people who monitor the trains will contact the engineers if they get too close. Hope this answers you question.

Answer 3

Trains and engines can be "routed" remotely by a train dispatcher that is miles away sending signals to automatic switches and or "controlled" signals. Trains often run in different directions on the same stretch of track by routing the trains into "sidings", with the more superior train continuing on the main track (as a rule). This type of operation is referred to as Centralized Traffic Control, or CTC

Brakemen and switchmen handle "manual" switches on both main track and in rail yards. In addition, most remotely controlled switches can be placed into "hand throw", a condition that allows for manual operation of these remotely controlled switches.

Or, a more simplified answer might be to say that the train follows the route of the rails due to a flange that is on the inside of the car wheels. This is what keeps the train on the tracks.

Answer 4

There is a traffic control system for trains where a dispatcher tells the engineer of each train which track to use and what speed to travel. Since they can "see" the entire system, they can ensure the trains will not run into each other.

Answer 5

That is the job of the rail traffic controller.

Answer 6

there are switching tracks, or you just cant see that there are two tracks.

Answer 7

switches and switchers

Answer 8

my friend works for csx. they use high tech. g.p.s.