Brian Norden Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> I have seen switches like this called a "lap
> switch." Because it is like two separate
> switches overlapping each other.
>
> More often you might see the second set of points
> about halfway between the first set and the frog
> for that set. That would make a non-symmetrical
> looking "3-way" switch.
>
> BN
Brian,
a symmetrical 3-way bladed turnout is known as a Double-throw since it uses two Switchstands or Groundthrows to operate. These can be paired levers on one side or other, or one lever on each side.
In NZR parlance a Doublethrow is one lever operating 2 paired Blades also known as a Double-Slip aka Puzzle Switch.
A Lap turnout is indeed lapped, as in overlapped to save space; here is a true 3-way Lap.