Train Order System Upgraded

The Train Order computer system that supports the dispatcher in his duties writing orders and clearances has undergone about a week's worth of attention.  In addition to fixing some errors that were noticed at the last session the system has been expanded and hopefully improved.

The expansion consisted of adding a CI form.  The CI form is for Conductor Instructions.

For example;

TO: C&E Nbr 20 Eng 44

Pickup BA 74 at Hood.

This would instruct the conductor to pickup the baggage car #74 at Hood which is not normally a function that train #20 does.

It will be the dispatcher's duty to convert the Session Instructions to form CIs for the train crews.  There will be a special section of the Session Instructions that will guide the dispatcher.

Additionally I expanded the current Train Order system from one screen to four screens so each function now has its own screen.  I think this will make each function clearer and easier to use, hopefully.

I also added a Void train order function for train orders that have not been associated with a clearance.  During the last session we had a need for this and didn't have a way to do it.  Now we do.

I also improved the error messages and the cursor placement after errors and after normal processing.

So the next dispatcher will have a new and improved Train Order system to guide his efforts!