Passing the Token

Trams/trains travelling from a to b along a single line track.

 

A ‘Token’, the name given to an object that is passed from the signalman (a), to the tram/train driver on a single line track used for two way traffic. The driver is then allowed to proceed along the single track; he then passes the ‘Token’ to a signalman (b), at the other end. If there are two trams/trains to go in the same direction (a to b), the ‘Token’ is shown by the signalman (a), to the first driver, and then given to the second driver, who then hands it to the signalman (b), at the other end of the single section of track. Signalman (b), now has control of the said section of track. Further trams/trains following in the same direction (a to b) are halted until the signalman (a), has control of the track once again by having the ‘Token’; which has been returned to him by the driver of a tram/train travelling in the opposite direction (b to a). The ‘Token’ can then be passed to the driver of the halted tram/train for him to proceed. This method ensures there is only one tram/train on that section of track at any one time. If there was a collision of two trams/trains on this section of track then the driver without the ‘Token’ is at fault.

 

This temporary track is in Mosley Street, Manchester as part of the Second City Crossing construction, leading to the new St. Peter's Square tram station.

 

I hope this isn't too confusing!

Done