Subject:
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Re: Train control (was Re: Small Park)
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Newsgroups:
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lugnet.org.us.indylug
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Date:
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Thu, 1 Aug 2002 14:26:01 GMT
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Viewed:
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375 times
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In lugnet.org.us.indylug, Brian B. Alano writes:
> It's cute!
>
> I've got a micro-motor point switcher working. Stole and improved
> someone else's idea. I'll post it and give formal credit later. Next is
> the automated level crossing.
>
> I own I think 8 working micro-motors, which is enough for one level
> crossing and 6 points. Anyone want to donate more to the effort? Of
> course, I only have 2 RCX, so I can only control 6 motors independently.
Can you come up with a reasonable way to convert the design to use the
standard motor (from the znap sets)? I've got about 20 of those bought for
just that purpose. Can you post some pictures or a ldraw file?
Also, this is one case where I would really like to use pieces from my
collection to built the point switchers. That way I can keep the layout
fully functional when we aren't all together. Thoughts?
> Oh, Steve H., my design would work fine with a mana, but I haven't
> actually tried it. Maybe that's how I can overcome my micro-motor and
> output limitations. Downside is the size of the mana--it would have to
> be covered with terrain or a building.
>
> I haven't thought much about WHY we need to control the points. "Because
> we can is my first inkling." Given that, what is the best way to
> demonstrate THAT we can? 1. Let spectators control the points? ;-) 2.
> Switch the points randomly, with the contraints that we don't derail
> trains or let them collide? 3. Do what trains are for: load and unload
> cargo. 4. Shunt cars. 5. Give demonstrations.
One of my reasons is that the track layout is set up to run multiple trains
and that any train can get to any portion of the track. That is a lot more
fun when you can control everything from one location. I think next time we
will have to spend some time just playing with the layout.
>
> Well, 2. looks like a pre-requisite for all the others except 5. (Which
> makes me realize the other reason we want to control the points--because
> it's fun!), so I guess I'll start there.
Yep. I can tell you right now that number 1 is probably out. For instance:
"Hey, what happens when I turn the power supply to max?" (Super Chief takes
a dive off the table to explode in a shower of ABS). SteveM gets hauled
away from assaulting train show attender.
>
> Looks like I'll be using reed switches to detect train cars. If any of
> you who are not "rubbish at soldering" want to make a few, here are the
> instructions:
> http://news.lugnet.com/trains/?n=16943. I'll probably make a few anyway,
> just to prove to myself I can do it. Does anyone know the
> characteristics of reed switches? I mean, it the resistance essentially
> zero and infinity, or does it vary with the strength of the magnetic
> field the switch encounters? I ask because I'd like to multiplex the
> switches into the RCX.
I'm not so interested in detecting the trains yet. That in my mind would be
some type of second phase. I guess you need it for option 2 above. Sounds
cool, but very ambitious. I'm guessing we need some more group goal setting
for the layout to make sure we are all aiming for the same target.
>
> As for the human interface to the control system (which we would need
> for demo option 5), I don't have enough polarity switches to make a good
> human interface out of hardware, so I guess it'll have to be done in
> software. Anybody got a screen shot of a modern train control console?
> Maybe I could model that on a laptop.
>
> Finally, I really do want to make a truck that can drive autonomously on
> the road plates. What do you think? Hey, I don't own any road plates to
> test with. Guess I'll have to buy some 8-).
> -Brian
That would be way cool.
BTW, anyone who wants to come work on the layout at times other than
meetings is welcome to do so. Just give me a call (H 858-0387) or send me
an email (work email is better during the week - steve.martin@inin.com). I
might come play too!
>
> Leah Cardaci wrote:
> > Hey all,
> > [snip]
> > Pictures of the park can be found at:
> > http://skyllar.topcities.com/Leah/Park.html. I designed the park to divide
> > into four pieces with the removal of a few elements to allow for easy transport.
> >
> > LMKWYK,
> > -L
> >
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Message has 1 Reply:
 | | Re: Train control (was Re: Small Park)
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| (...) [snip] (...) I can understand that. Maybe Sunday I'll get a chance to put in a geared motor and take some pix. I'll take some pictures of the micromotor-based switch, too, FWIW. The only Technic pieces in the micromotor design: 1 micromotor 1 (...) (22 years ago, 2-Aug-02, to lugnet.org.us.indylug)
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Message is in Reply To:
| | Train control (was Re: Small Park)
|
| It's cute! I've got a micro-motor point switcher working. Stole and improved someone else's idea. I'll post it and give formal credit later. Next is the automated level crossing. I own I think 8 working micro-motors, which is enough for one level (...) (22 years ago, 31-Jul-02, to lugnet.org.us.indylug)
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