I have learned that "spring switches" were often used on street car lines as well. often used on loops for return run. also, what a shiny basement floor. also, are you wearing two toned socks?
First time I saw a spring switch on the B&M 70+ years ago, I was amazed by the size of the three springs that held the straight point tightly closed against the divergent stock rail. Then I watched a steam engine (Consolidation IIRC?) open the point without any hesitation. Man, I was hooked on spring switches for my layouts.
All the socks I got from Santa are very similar....but I wouldn't say my feet are stinky......of coarse I might be wrong on that point!! LOL The socks are mucho comfortable, and warm.....necessary up here Canada!!
A power operated switch controlled by the Dispatcher will be protected by a absolute signal. A train that runs through a power operated switch will not derail, it will however require the approximately $20K switch machine to be replaced, the switch will have to be spiked in the desired position by the signal personnel. The crew that ran through the switch will face discipline for running past a STOP signal. This is a SERIOUS failure.
The Northern Pacific branch line were I grew up actually had some spring switches. So I saw them in use during my youth.
