London Transport (LT) was at the forefront of automating the signalling of trains at junctions using electromechanical equipment.
The first stage was to develop a robust system for transmitting accurate train descriptions, covered in this article. There were two quite different schemes that sought to use train descriptions to operate the routing of trains automatically, but neither was developed because of operational shortcomings.
From the late 1950s the main operational shortcomings were solved by the development of a machine (a programme machine) which carried the timetable in the form of coded holes on a plastic roll which stepped each time a train approached. This was arranged to operation the interlocking equipment where the destination was proved correct and where (in some cases) the train was not running early. The equipment initially varied considerably from one site to another, and over time adopted a huge number of electronic control techniques that superseded the early deployment of relays. Some 40 sites were eventually equipped with programme machines.
This article explains how the programme machine sites were introduced and developed and is believed to be the only occasion where the whole story has been set out.
A few words are also said about the introduction of positive train identification on the Northern Line, requiring the introduction of computers, which are still in use.
In due course it is the intention to bring the story fully up to date and add further photographs and diagrams.
With resignalling of the Northern, Victoria and District Lines in hand, the end of the programme machine is in site, though there are still dozens in service. It is perhaps a fitting moment for the story to be told.
This is a large file so please give it a minute or two to download.
Alternate link to download article