About the Interactive Signalling Laboratory

The Interactive Signalling Laboratory (SigLab) is an innovative educational tool designed to teach railway signalling concepts through hands-on experience. It combines the engaging nature of board games with practical learning of railway operations and safety principles.

Purpose

The SigLab was developed to address several key educational needs:

• Provide a tangible way to understand abstract railway signalling concepts

• Enable safe experimentation with signalling scenarios

• Create an engaging learning environment through gameplay

• Facilitate understanding of railway safety principles

• Bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application

Concept

The SigLab is inspired by traditional wooden toy trains (like BRIO) but enhanced with educational features:

• Discrete Movement: Trains move in discrete steps, making it easier to understand timing and spacing

• Physics Simulation: Speed, time, and velocity are represented as discrete values

• Interactive Elements: Participants use tokens to control and interact with the system

• Cooperative Gameplay: Players work together to ensure safe and efficient train operations

• Progressive Learning: The system allows for increasingly complex scenarios

Educational Value

The SigLab serves multiple educational purposes:

1. Understanding Signalling: Learn how signals control train movements

2. Safety Principles: Experience the importance of safety in railway operations

3. System Thinking: Develop an understanding of how different components interact

4. Problem Solving: Practice resolving operational challenges

5. Team Collaboration: Work together to manage railway operations

Versions

The SigLab is available in two versions:

1. Paper Prototype

   • Quick to build and iterate

   • Ideal for testing concepts

   • Low-cost materials

   • Perfect for educational institutions

2. Wooden Version

   • Durable and long-lasting

   • Professional appearance

   • Suitable for permanent installations

   • Ideal for training centers

Target Audience

The SigLab is designed for:

• Railway engineering students

• Signalling professionals

• Educational institutions

• Railway museums

• Training centers

• Railway enthusiasts

Getting Started

To begin your SigLab journey:

1. Choose your preferred version (paper or wooden)

2. Review the Components section

3. Follow the Construction Guide

4. Learn the Gameplay rules

5. Start experimenting with different scenarios