Hump Yard

A train yard configured for automated classification, in which a locomotive pushes a cut of cars over a hill (the "hump"). As the cars reach the crest, cars are uncoupled and allowed to roll freely down the other side where computer-controlled switches route the car into the appropriate track. A system of retarders is used to help control the car's speed according to the weight of the car, the track it is being routed towards, and how far down that track the car will need to roll.

AKA:
Automated Classification Yard