Computer-based interlocking is railway signal interlocking implemented with computers, rather than using older technologies such as relays or mechanics.
General
CBIs are mostly implemented in two parts; a section that implements the safety and failsafe requirements, and a second section that implements "non-vital" controls and indications. The European Union is working towards an EU standard within this area, called ERTMS.
Brands
Different manufacturers have their own brands of CBI such as
- SSI (Solid State Interlocking) - BR, Invensys, GEC-General Signal
- Microlok II
- Smartlock
- Westlock
- Germany - Alister CBI from Funkwerk IT1
Interface between different brands
When interfacing different brands of CBI equipment, it may be necessary to use relays of each regime, which are then hardwired from one to the other. This happens in the middle of the Channel Tunnel where French and British signalling equipment meet.
Competition Rules
Since only some of the major signalling organisations make CBI equipment, it was agreed that to prevent other players being left out in the cold, CBI equipment would be made available to those players at cost.
References
Railway Gazette International of July 2012, page 18 /wiki/Railway_Gazette_International ↩