automatic train protection
1 of 1noun/ˌɔ:.tə.ˈmæ.tɪk treɪn prə.tɛk.ʃən/
Forms:automatic train protections
1
a safety system installed on railways to prevent accidents caused by human error
Automatic train protection (ATP) is a safety system used in trains to prevent accidents by automatically controlling the train's speed or stopping it if necessary. It works by monitoring the train's speed and location, comparing this data to signals along the track. If a train is speeding or approaching a danger, such as a red signal or an obstacle, ATP can automatically apply the brakes to slow down or stop the train. This system helps reduce human error and enhances safety, particularly in high-speed or busy train networks.
- Automatic train protection ensures that trains automatically slow down or stop if they exceed speed limits, enhancing passenger safety.
- In the event of a signal passed at danger, automatic train protection activates emergency brakes to prevent collisions.
- Many modern railways worldwide have adopted automatic train protection to minimize the risk of accidents and improve operational reliability.
- The implementation of automatic train protection has significantly reduced the occurrence of accidents related to speeding or signal violations on railway networks.
- The introduction of automatic train protection has standardized safety measures across different railway networks, ensuring consistent passenger security.