Operating points

The infrastructure of railroad systems can be clearly divided into different facilities, categorically and spatially. For this purpose, there are the so-called operating points and their respective designations. These would be, for example, junctions, transfer points, stations, stops, connection points and many more. Each of these types of operating points fulfil their own function in the overall rail operation process, which is explained in detail in our video chapter. By clearly classifying and assigning an operating point to the categories, the related operating rules and responsibilities are then defined. They standardize the behavior of driving personnel, control center personnel, but also, for example, the behavior of planning engineers.

Another part of this short video is the superordinate division of rail lines into station areas and areas of free track. It also serves to standardize procedures by establishing rules. Further, it represents a further level of categorization in rail operations. It may happen that the above-mentioned types of operating stations can be operating stations of the free track. Otherwise, it can be an operating stations of the station area.