ceesquared Posted March 3, 2020 Share Posted March 3, 2020 This is for a non dcc layout. I want to have a system for stopping a train/carrages at a buffer. I have tried using a micro switch to cut off power but that can result in a derailment. I have thought of using an IR beam interrupt to cut the power, setting up the tx is not a problem, it is the rx that I begin to run out of ideas on what I need for the circuit board. Has anybody else solved this problem? If so how, what components do you need exactly? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RDS Posted March 3, 2020 Share Posted March 3, 2020 Hi and welcome to the ForumI would have expected that the microswitch idea would work if the switch was fitted in the buffer as long as the train is only going very slowly when it comes into contact. If the train hits the buffer hard, that may in itself be enough to cause a derailment. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bulleidboy Posted March 3, 2020 Share Posted March 3, 2020 I suppose you could have an isolating rail a loco's length from the buffer, with power via an on-off switch. The downside is the loco would stop fairly abruptly - although it would be travelling very slowly. You could also fit hydraulic buffers! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
walkingthedog Posted March 3, 2020 Share Posted March 3, 2020 That's what I do BB. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
atom3624 Posted March 3, 2020 Share Posted March 3, 2020 OP. Welcome to the Forum, and nice thinking ... but. I would avoid potential damage, as indicated later, and isolate a reasonable distance from the buffer.With the best of intentions, with all the detailing parts, damage could be incurred if relying on the buffers. Typically there would be 3 tracks between platforms, the middle permitting the loco to uncouple, 'reverse up' to couple at the other end, else continue to the t/table, 180 and reverse back to couple up 'if a Steamie'. Al. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
walkingthedog Posted March 3, 2020 Share Posted March 3, 2020 The OP didn't mention a station. Why do you assume 2 platforms? Might just be a siding. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jane1707819582 Posted March 3, 2020 Share Posted March 3, 2020 Try using a diffuse scan sensor thee have tx and RX in the same mounting Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LCDR Posted March 3, 2020 Share Posted March 3, 2020 What I have done in the past is to have an insulated joint a loco length from the buffer stop, and a push to make switch to power the rail when I have reversed the direction and am ready to depart. Won't always work for multiple units but is OK for loco hauled trains. If you want to slow the train down automatically before you get to the stopping track you can add another insulated section but fed via a resistor to cut power. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
96RAF Posted March 3, 2020 Share Posted March 3, 2020 Make a gap in one rail and wire a diode across the gap. This will cut power in one direction but allow it to flow in the other direction. This is how shuttle stops are controlled, except they have a flip-flop circuit to reverse the polarity after a set time. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
atom3624 Posted March 3, 2020 Share Posted March 3, 2020 WtD where else would you routinely stop a loco and carriages - makes sense - aggressive response again!! It is true, no station was mentioned, I was just throwing a little idea into the mix. For general 'fiddle' work, same approach would be considered I reckon, if space permits of course, and for me at least, definitely don't rely on the buffers to cut power / trigger, to avoid possible damage. Of course, you could have done this in the 60's and 70's when they were made like tanks!! Al. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
walkingthedog Posted March 3, 2020 Share Posted March 3, 2020 Carriage sidings I guess. 😉 I have passenger coaches and no station. Take up too much room. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LCDR Posted March 4, 2020 Share Posted March 4, 2020 There are methods using a shuttle module which has reed switches in the track and a magnet under the train, works best with Multiple Unit , railcar and push-pull trains. The only problem with a diode is that if you use another loco to remove the coaches as soon as it pulls them away, the other loco then starts too. However a switch in the circuit prevents this. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Please sign in to comment
You will be able to leave a comment after signing in
Sign In Now