Abstract: A method and device for effecting a fast but smooth deceleration or stopping of trains controlled under the automatic train control (ATC) system. Under ATC, a permitted maximum velocity is provided as an "ATC condition" to activate the brake system of the train if that velocity is exceeded. When it is necessary to alter the velocity of a train, a control center specifies a feeder section to have the ATC condition to be altered. Next, a substation corresponding to the specified feeder section is provided with notice about the alteration of the ATC condition. The notice includes the impending reduction of velocity. In response, the substation decelerates the train without using the ATC brake system provided on the train. When the train has been sufficiently slowed down such that the alteration of the ATC condition will not result in activation of the ATC brake system, the alteration of the ATC condition is then effected.

Abstract: The invention relates to an improved block control for controlling a train safely and efficiently along a railway system. The apparatus includes a mechanism for designating a train route, a mechanism for assigning a feeder section along the designated train route to a desired substation, a mechanism for locking an assigned feeder section to a desired substation and for preventing unlocking of that assignment until predetermined conditions are met, a mechanism for designating a traveling direction of the train along the assigned feeder section, and a mechanism for controlling operation of the train along a designated control route. The invention also relates to a mechanism for enlarging a control route, a mechanism for unlocking the assigned feeder sections and substations, a mechanism for checking a determined control route, a mechanism for changing the borders of a feeder section, and a mechanism for selectively communicating received data to the correct substation to facilitate control of the train.