tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85641193133141241562024-03-12T18:39:13.964-07:00The Valley before SiliconA layout representing the region from the City to San Jose CA at the time when silicon was used just in concrete, orchards were along the right of way and prunes trees were full of flowers.Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-18388804297481774742012-06-12T07:59:00.003-07:002012-06-12T08:31:17.694-07:00June 2012: Status PicturesSome pictures of the current status ... to "give you the idea" of....<br />
How much work is still on the sky!<br />
Pictures follow the mainline order , starting from San Francisco down to ....<br />
Palo Alto is actually the "end of the line".<br />
San Francisco probably is the next step and<br />
Santa Clara will follow next<br />
<br />
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<td><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rt8zYXQuSeM/T9dSlPh7whI/AAAAAAAAA4E/OgEN66AksY4/s1600/1-SanFranc_PotreroWhy_Mission.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="167" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rt8zYXQuSeM/T9dSlPh7whI/AAAAAAAAA4E/OgEN66AksY4/s200/1-SanFranc_PotreroWhy_Mission.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San Francisco: still to start!</td></tr>
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<td><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2KQ9VSm4ASU/T9dSmG7XhVI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/AecvJZG_lUw/s1600/1-Tracks-Staging-MissionEntry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2KQ9VSm4ASU/T9dSmG7XhVI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/AecvJZG_lUw/s200/1-Tracks-Staging-MissionEntry.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entry to Mission Bay Staging yard</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ea-9PVcNDP8/T9dSlnhO5MI/AAAAAAAAA4I/tjUTN9eat1Y/s1600/1-Tracks-Staging-MissionBay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="135" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ea-9PVcNDP8/T9dSlnhO5MI/AAAAAAAAA4I/tjUTN9eat1Y/s200/1-Tracks-Staging-MissionBay.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Mission Staging</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BdXSLPqLOoY/T9dSnSFoyWI/AAAAAAAAA4c/Xuh8Vsht1Vw/s1600/2-Tracks-Visitacion-S.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BdXSLPqLOoY/T9dSnSFoyWI/AAAAAAAAA4c/Xuh8Vsht1Vw/s200/2-Tracks-Visitacion-S.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bayshore - Visitacion Point</td></tr>
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<td><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rsMU84zmKmU/T9daWfqqEqI/AAAAAAAAA6o/tQi7nRVPV2k/s1600/2-Panel-Visitacion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rsMU84zmKmU/T9daWfqqEqI/AAAAAAAAA6o/tQi7nRVPV2k/s1600/2-Panel-Visitacion.jpg" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--xSyoXQDXcQ/T9da-RcrN5I/AAAAAAAAA6w/2giGOvJuauQ/s1600/2-Panel-Visitacion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="140" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--xSyoXQDXcQ/T9da-RcrN5I/AAAAAAAAA6w/2giGOvJuauQ/s200/2-Panel-Visitacion.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bayshore - Visitacion panel</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-89Ob2GDoLE4/T9dSn8JBg9I/AAAAAAAAA4g/hIwEVG44CbI/s1600/3-Panel-Burlingame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="97" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-89Ob2GDoLE4/T9dSn8JBg9I/AAAAAAAAA4g/hIwEVG44CbI/s200/3-Panel-Burlingame.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burlingame panel<br />
Mission Yard panel</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vqb9-Xen2AM/T9dZ678WHOI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/7p2Msq4ZlOs/s1600/3-Tracks-Burlingame-N.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="135" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vqb9-Xen2AM/T9dZ678WHOI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/7p2Msq4ZlOs/s200/3-Tracks-Burlingame-N.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arriving in Burlingame</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1FjHS0f_U6o/T9dSpECBA8I/AAAAAAAAA44/G-qRz23mDHk/s1600/3-Tracks-Burlingame-S.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="157" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1FjHS0f_U6o/T9dSpECBA8I/AAAAAAAAA44/G-qRz23mDHk/s200/3-Tracks-Burlingame-S.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burlingame station</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XOak2ecDqNo/T9daLfmghpI/AAAAAAAAA6g/hT8V8AaYzRs/s1600/4-Tracks-Internal_Nolix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XOak2ecDqNo/T9daLfmghpI/AAAAAAAAA6g/hT8V8AaYzRs/s200/4-Tracks-Internal_Nolix.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Nolix"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qYWb01qunCE/T9dSrGNpFWI/AAAAAAAAA5I/RHrp3wvFjR8/s1600/5-TracksRedwood-Ind.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="176" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qYWb01qunCE/T9dSrGNpFWI/AAAAAAAAA5I/RHrp3wvFjR8/s200/5-TracksRedwood-Ind.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Redwood Industrial area</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l9Orici3Odk/T9dSrzR8dXI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/KRj6RAfyO4U/s1600/6-Panel-Redwood-Jct.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="115" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l9Orici3Odk/T9dSrzR8dXI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/KRj6RAfyO4U/s200/6-Panel-Redwood-Jct.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Redwood panel</td></tr>
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<td><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NbYZC67TmwQ/T9dSs9PwY3I/AAAAAAAAA5g/BpP_7u0W_lE/s1600/6-Tracks-Redwood-Jct.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="115" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NbYZC67TmwQ/T9dSs9PwY3I/AAAAAAAAA5g/BpP_7u0W_lE/s200/6-Tracks-Redwood-Jct.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Industries in redwood</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7PeKSXvLx3U/T9dSsbDVlYI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/r8itAJ699EE/s1600/6-Tracks-Branch_to_LosAltos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="173" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7PeKSXvLx3U/T9dSsbDVlYI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/r8itAJ699EE/s200/6-Tracks-Branch_to_LosAltos.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Branch to Los Altos depart the Main</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rbplYPJIS0Y/T9dSuAJCfMI/AAAAAAAAA5w/lO1paVA_1oo/s1600/8-Panel-Menlo%2526LosAltos.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rbplYPJIS0Y/T9dSuAJCfMI/AAAAAAAAA5w/lO1paVA_1oo/s200/8-Panel-Menlo%2526LosAltos.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Menlo Park - Los Altos Panel </td></tr>
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<td><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0RZWcCVikJo/T9dStd_FnfI/AAAAAAAAA5o/CIhTZLYVG9U/s1600/7-Tracks-Branch_LosAltos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0RZWcCVikJo/T9dStd_FnfI/AAAAAAAAA5o/CIhTZLYVG9U/s200/7-Tracks-Branch_LosAltos.jpg" width="197" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Menlo Park statio (rigth)</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<td><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n3P-OwydK_E/T9dSukmCibI/AAAAAAAAA58/KUTxjKAXUJQ/s1600/8-Tracks-PaloAlto-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="151" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n3P-OwydK_E/T9dSukmCibI/AAAAAAAAA58/KUTxjKAXUJQ/s200/8-Tracks-PaloAlto-2.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Palo Alto bridge over San Francisquito Creek</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<td><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gWZxFPpSqXw/T9dSwq10saI/AAAAAAAAA6I/VsrMTHrWQKI/s1600/9-Panel-Menlo_Redw_Visitac.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="144" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gWZxFPpSqXw/T9dSwq10saI/AAAAAAAAA6I/VsrMTHrWQKI/s200/9-Panel-Menlo_Redw_Visitac.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3 panels corner</td></tr>
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</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-16729020688443693052012-05-29T07:25:00.004-07:002012-06-12T08:32:29.927-07:002 solution to move points with a servo<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I’ve
experiment Tam Valley Octopus servo Driver from his first version. This have
software that just leave the user to select between some “angle” of movement”
of the servo arm. I have to install hand
laid turnouts that need a strong force to maintain the points in pressure, and
I want a solution that can be installed from the top of the layout, after the
turnouts are already in place… </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">With this
limitation in mind I select a solution that use the flexibility of the music
wire to provide the necessary strength. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">See on this post what I’ve done at the
time: </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://valleybeforesilicon.blogspot.com/2011/01/modified-actuator-for-servo.html" target="_blank">http://valleybeforesilicon.blogspot.com/2011/01/modified-actuator-for-servo.html</a>
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Then Duncan
( Tam Valley owner) add the Auto-Align software ( this will find automatically
the end-point where the point rail are pushing the side rails)…. I’ve try also
this cards, but find the trick some difficult, at least with my turnouts in N
scale. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Now a new
software is loaded in the last Octopus III version, where a “manual adjustment”
is allowed (along with a more comfortable handy keypad! ) and this …. It’s
exactly what I’m waiting!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The “auto”
followed by a “manual” programming have solved all problems and ( also because a
friend have critiqued, and I agree, the visual aspect of the previous
mechanical solution ) I was ready to find a more “traditional” way to install
the servo.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">A visit to
the bricolage shop and I take home the proper tool: one aluminum bar of the
same dimensions of the servo!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Here you
can see a video with the two solutions: <a href="https://vimeo.com/43026665" target="_blank">https://vimeo.com/43026665</a></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></u></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-US"></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Materials</u></b>:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US">Aluminum “U” bar</span></b><span lang="EN-US"> cm1,5 x 1 cm (more or less 4$ for a
meter ) : <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">|___|</b><br />
(I figured it was better to have metal at the pivot point )</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US">SG90 Servo</span></b><span lang="EN-US"> with moving arm accessory <br />
( I’ve buy a quantity from : <a href="http://stores.ebay.com/top-racing2007" target="_blank">http://stores.ebay.com/top-racing2007</a>
( use the search field and type SG 90 for some bulk pack at good price:
$2,5-3 for >12 pcs.) </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US"> Tam
Valley also sell for SRV002 $4.95 USD)<br />
<a href="http://www.tamvalleydepot.com/products/servosaccessories.html" target="_blank">http://www.tamvalleydepot.com/products/servosaccessories.html</a>
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><b><span lang="EN-US">Music Wire .032" (</span></b><span lang="EN-US">available from Tam Valley, but also from LSH
or WallMart)</span><span lang="EN-US"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><b><span lang="EN-US">Strong foam double face tape</span></b><span lang="EN-US"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><span lang="EN-US">Tam
Valley “<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Octopus III</b>” 8xservo driver
card: OCT030 $32.00 USD</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><span lang="EN-US">Tam
Valley <b>Remote Aligner for Octopus III: </b>OCT031 $12.00 USD<br />
<a href="http://www.tamvalleydepot.com/products/octopusservodriver.html" target="_blank">http://www.tamvalleydepot.com/products/octopusservodriver.html</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">Note that Tam Valley have discount prices for
quantity.</span></div>
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<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
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</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-US">Options</span></u></b><span lang="EN-US">:</span></div>
<span lang="EN-US">Fascia Controller for use with Quad/Octopus II/Octopus III:</span><span lang="EN-US">
FCB010 $2.50 USD</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US">Remote DPDT Relay with Y Cable: </span><span lang="EN-US">DY5001 $7.00 USD</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fhfcUQ2bfnk/T8TW1Q4-dFI/AAAAAAAAA2o/v0Fns4uNjm4/s1600/image002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fhfcUQ2bfnk/T8TW1Q4-dFI/AAAAAAAAA2o/v0Fns4uNjm4/s1600/image002.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uw62St7VvcU/T8TW2OurhyI/AAAAAAAAA2w/JwUPpVIIO7w/s1600/image004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uw62St7VvcU/T8TW2OurhyI/AAAAAAAAA2w/JwUPpVIIO7w/s1600/image004.jpg" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-US"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DqiiDzPmEGM/T8TXn70BYlI/AAAAAAAAA24/s2ehoSLDVJI/s1600/image006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DqiiDzPmEGM/T8TXn70BYlI/AAAAAAAAA24/s2ehoSLDVJI/s320/image006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">(above pictures
from the Tam Valley web site)</span></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><br clear="all" style="page-break-before: always;" />
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span lang="EN-US">The second
solution: “a la Tortoise”:</span></b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-US">Mounting</span></u></b><span lang="EN-US">: </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">1)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">Cut a piece of 4 cm. from the Aluminum
“U” bar</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--G0qrtEVLPc/T8TX32f6yVI/AAAAAAAAA3A/L_wO-lHKmDU/s1600/image007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--G0qrtEVLPc/T8TX32f6yVI/AAAAAAAAA3A/L_wO-lHKmDU/s1600/image007.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
2) Place the servo as show inside the bar without the tape<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aBMk4hmlZ9E/T8TYWqRK9XI/AAAAAAAAA3I/rhXXoN-c4q8/s1600/image010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aBMk4hmlZ9E/T8TYWqRK9XI/AAAAAAAAA3I/rhXXoN-c4q8/s1600/image010.jpg" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-US"> 3)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">Place the moving servo arm without
the screw and using the music wire put a point on the aluminum bar leaving the
music wire in vertical. “Dremel” a
1mm-1,2mm hol</span>e<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--G0qrtEVLPc/T8TX32f6yVI/AAAAAAAAA3A/L_wO-lHKmDU/s1600/image007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wq4df4aXQDU/T8TYuOLzCjI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/xkqTHuMSCOY/s1600/image011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wq4df4aXQDU/T8TYuOLzCjI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/xkqTHuMSCOY/s1600/image011.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
4) If you’ve already installed the turnout on layout, or the turnout is in a place too difficult to work from bottom , then position the turnout with point opposite to throw bar end where you want the wire and sign the place for the wire hole just in line with the throw bar end. Drill a 3-4 mm hole from top of the plywood.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wAK69f3t6bI/T8TZYpvra_I/AAAAAAAAA3g/l-YYHbcbdlM/s1600/image013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wAK69f3t6bI/T8TZYpvra_I/AAAAAAAAA3g/l-YYHbcbdlM/s1600/image013.jpg" /></a></div>
5) Now using the double tape fit the servo inside the metal bar<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a6gYeFAceFY/T8TZNiv8LII/AAAAAAAAA3Y/8auTGFRJOhY/s1600/image013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xmZ5Tzf6BjM/T8TZj_-GpKI/AAAAAAAAA3o/410uAhkis8U/s1600/image015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xmZ5Tzf6BjM/T8TZj_-GpKI/AAAAAAAAA3o/410uAhkis8U/s1600/image015.jpg" /></a></div>
6) Bend the music wire to the servo arm as show. <br />
7) Connect to Octopus and position the Center Jumper on CENTER (servo will move the<span lang="EN-US"> arm in the middle position) .
Screw the servo arm to be on line with the 1mm hole.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ers3Zzd4o8I/T8TaStAJM1I/AAAAAAAAA3w/ansF5huL4OU/s1600/image017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ers3Zzd4o8I/T8TaStAJM1I/AAAAAAAAA3w/ansF5huL4OU/s1600/image017.jpg" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-US"></span>
<br />
8) Fit a piece of tape on top of the metal support and From “downunder” ( but without touch the plywood) insert the servo more or less in position. Try to emulate the arm movement to find the best servo position. Push the servo in place. <br />
9) With the arm always in CENTER move also turnouts point to center. As I’ve a copper plate throw bar, I’ve used one thread of electric wire turned on the music wire to make the connection to turnout throw bar and solder to it (use always some flux)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fKDJdIpdsgo/T8Taj02F2XI/AAAAAAAAA34/kU2zw8L5y5c/s1600/image019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fKDJdIpdsgo/T8Taj02F2XI/AAAAAAAAA34/kU2zw8L5y5c/s1600/image019.jpg" /></a></div>
10) Program the Octopus III and enjoy !<br />
<br />
<br />
<span lang="EN-US"></span></div>Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-61645631377284643232012-04-18T09:24:00.005-07:002012-06-12T08:31:57.226-07:00Start to plan for Operations<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Here I want
describe one of the possible path to organize Operations on your layout.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">This is the
way I found simple for me, but I understand it can not the same for everybody.
I’m not a Railroad “Pro”, more a modeler that like the Operations and this I’m
sure is reflected on my approach.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">That said,
as a modeler… I start from the track plan! </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span lang="EN-US">1-<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></b><b><u><span lang="EN-US">Start to Plan your traffic:</span></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Well, not
exactly, as my plan was designed with the fundamental railroad rule in mind:
rail traffic is generated from customers and rail service must have a revenue
to have a reason to be ( as any business adventure, I well know!)</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">So, after
reading a lot about SP Coast Division ( type of traffic, type of merchandize
delivered, history of some key-industries, history of some key-town along the
route, timeline for main freights types to identify what-was-when, etc….) I’ve
identified some subjects I like to model in the selected era and selected
locale: </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">-<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US"><b>cement
</b>traffic from manufacturer to distributor</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">-<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US"><b>perishable</b>
freight traffic with typical car management (cleaning, icing, loading, pre-cooling,
unloading )</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">-<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US">some
<b>wood-chain industries</b> ( not the lumber sawmills on the mountains that are
simulated from staging but furniture makers, building materials resellers , crates
manufacturers …)</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">-<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US"><b>food
treatment</b> chain ( canning , frosting, packing,
stocking, transfer to trucks for door delivery…)</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">-<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><b><span lang="EN-US">Chemical
</span><span class="hps"><span lang="EN">raw material</span>s</span></b><span lang="EN"> </span><span lang="EN-US">supply for food treatments and <b>gasoline </b>for
automobiles, <b>oil-derived products</b> for industries and… to run trains motive power</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">-<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US"><b>Express
mail</b> traffic and <b>LCL </b>( Less –than-Carload package shipping: what in modern time
is UPS-DHL and USPS delivery )</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Setting
these “Given” in a list was a good
start, and I’ve used this “guideline” to find good names for all industries
along my track plan and “on the outside
world ( the two staging yards )” and design all service tracks ( spurs or
sidings) that will do the jobs.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">The result
was something like this document, that shows all main buildings along the path
from San Francisco to San Jose: my modeled section of the Coast Division.</span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XweYoTwhwzA/T47pfIOvVDI/AAAAAAAAA2A/Rr3QWEz8s14/s1600/Enzo%27s-buildings-list.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XweYoTwhwzA/T47pfIOvVDI/AAAAAAAAA2A/Rr3QWEz8s14/s200/Enzo%27s-buildings-list.jpg" width="150" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Buildings list</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span><b><span lang="EN-US">2-<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></b><b><u><span lang="EN-US">Shipper / Consignee and Lading list:</span></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Well, after
this, and sourcing from the Customer list referred above, a second document
take shape.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">This will
list all customers ( using Excel or any different spreadsheet software give you
the “sort” facility: sort by town, by lading, etc), setting also quantity of
cars they weekly need.</span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l0oKpLYLvaM/T47pzlQd1HI/AAAAAAAAA2I/cGoedtnyGUo/s1600/ShipRec-Car&lading.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l0oKpLYLvaM/T47pzlQd1HI/AAAAAAAAA2I/cGoedtnyGUo/s200/ShipRec-Car&lading.jpg" width="135" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Shipper/ Consignee- Lading & Cars count</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">If you’re interested
to download this document and use it as form to fill with your data, I’ve put
it in the Google document service as “public” ( no on line editing ) . here the
direct link:</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AuXzk2BFH4GxdEZhd1RRQ29ZM0tTLURRdFRFbFNucEE">https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AuXzk2BFH4GxdEZhd1RRQ29ZM0tTLURRdFRFbFNucEE</a></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Select “File”
menu and then “Download as..” and select the format you like ( Excel or Open
Office are obviously editable formats).</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">A good starting
source for Industries names, his location and lading type, can be the <b>OpSIG </b>(Operations
SIG of NMRA) database, that is available at their website, </span><a href="http://www.opsig.org/"><span lang="EN-US">http://www.opsig.org</span></a><span lang="EN-US">, under “<i><b>Online Resources</b></i>,” and then
“<i><b>Industry Database</b></i>.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">This sheet will
be the basic document to plan your traffic, unrelated to which method you may select to implement ( Car-Cards
& Waybills. Switchlist, Timetable & TrainOrders, Warrants…. or any of
the “electronic” alternative , JMRI included)</span><b><span lang="EN-US"> </span></b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span lang="EN-US">3-<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></b><b><span lang="EN-US">Timetable</span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Before
speak about this we’ve to prepare another “basic” : a Timetable of the “scheduled”
trains, passengers trains included if you plan to have it. To do this job, I
take as a good start a real Employee Timetable of a relevant year I want model.
For an example of some “vintage” SP Timetables, you can source on my page here:
<a href="http://enzofortuna.altervista.org/SP_doc.htm">http://enzofortuna.altervista.org/SP_doc.htm</a>
</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Here is a
sample ( in progress as you see) of my ETT prepared for my layout:</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AhXI3ni137k/T47qTHVH85I/AAAAAAAAA2Q/y5iK3hDv9Jc/s1600/TimeTable-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="99" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AhXI3ni137k/T47qTHVH85I/AAAAAAAAA2Q/y5iK3hDv9Jc/s200/TimeTable-1.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wr-Blc-g_OE/T47qTyUaCMI/AAAAAAAAA2Y/Aq7r2d-NkJw/s1600/TimeTable-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="101" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wr-Blc-g_OE/T47qTyUaCMI/AAAAAAAAA2Y/Aq7r2d-NkJw/s200/TimeTable-2.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Again this
is available to download at Google Docs using the same procedure as above:</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AuXzk2BFH4GxdGZtdzE5dS1OaVB1eDE5TlpoeGtDOXc">https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AuXzk2BFH4GxdGZtdzE5dS1OaVB1eDE5TlpoeGtDOXc</a></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">You see
that I’ve listed regular and “named” trains, both passengers and freights. In
addition to these some 3<sup>rd</sup> Class “Extras” are generated (randomly or
when the OP session need some “excitement”).</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Given the
number of operators my layout will have “normally” , I image to split the daily
time in 4 consecutive OP sessions. Anyway we will define this when the time of
a first “Round Robin” become a reality!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">An important "visual" addition using Excel or similar software is the ability to generate a "<b>Traffic diagram</b>". This helps a lot to check train meetings and timings on the line.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Here is a good sample and explanation: <a href="http://mdodd.com/virginian/string_diag.html">http://mdodd.com/virginian/string_diag.html</a> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span lang="EN-US">4-<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></b><b><span lang="EN-US">“on hand” documents for your crew</span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">All these
activities give you an organized basis to step forward with next action:
prepare documents to have “your Railroad running” in a prototyped simulation.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">The
traditional choices, as said, are:</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">-<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US"><b>Car
Card & Waybills</b><br />
an attractive prototypal approach to Waybills can be found on Tony Thompson’s blog:
<a href="http://modelingthesp.blogspot.com/2011/11/waybills-15-managing-bills.html">http://modelingthesp.blogspot.com/2011/11/waybills-15-managing-bills.html</a>
</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">-<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US"><b>Switchlists</b><br />
For example of this approach see the Robert Bowlidge site : <a href="http://vasonabranch.blogspot.com/2012/04/switchlist-move-cars-by-shuffling.html">http://vasonabranch.blogspot.com/2012/04/switchlist-move-cars-by-shuffling.html</a>
</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">-<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US"><b>Track
Warrant</b><br />
see for explanation the Carsten S.Lundsten site:<br />
<a href="http://www.lundsten.dk/us_signaling/twc/index.html#TheTWForm">http://www.lundsten.dk/us_signaling/twc/index.html#TheTWForm</a></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Any of
these methods have sustainer or detractors, but I want to describe in a next
post an alternative I want to follow ( at least as my first option ) given my inexperience
in car traffic planning: I want try to use the Operation section of JMRI , a
freeware software that maybe some of you know ( and use?) to program you DCC
decoders or display CTC panels.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">JMRI Operation
description is here : <a href="http://jmri.org/help/en/package/jmri/jmrit/operations/Operations.shtml">http://jmri.org/help/en/package/jmri/jmrit/operations/Operations.shtml</a>
</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">So, wait ‘till
I find some time to drop another update here!</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-86489997061682686922012-04-13T06:03:00.000-07:002012-06-12T08:32:43.998-07:00Locate and name correctly: partial plan review<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">Well friends, one of my worry was always the not
correct position of the Menlo Park and Redwood Junction along the line and also
the toy like shape of the industrial area at Redwood. So, taking advantage of
my now steady lacks of time to advance in track laying …. ( you remember the
declared strike of the road gang on my last post here ) , I fire back the
layout design software and ….. here are the results:</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 9pt;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">Shift Redwood and
Menlo to his correct position along the line !</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 9pt;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">A better ( at least
so it seems to me ) spurs layouts for some industries that will provide some
challenge to switch and a more “railroady” feeling of the entire scene in
Redwood Jct.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 9pt;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">Browsing some old
mails from friends discussing candidates for industries at each location ( and
a big “thanks” to Robert Bowdidge suggestions about the area ) I start again
more Internet research for good names.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 9pt;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">I ended to define all
industries located in my industrial “park” and find several pictures of each.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 9pt;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">Also I’ve relocated
the diverging point of the Los Altos branch adding some more length to train
travel.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 9pt;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">As a freelance
choice, and ‘cause I always want to have a Winery in some place, I select the
Rossetti Bros. ( really on the Santa Cruz Hills ) and place it on the branch.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 9pt;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">As aside advantage
Menlo Depot is now in a better location near the layout edge, to become a
key-point to identify the scene and my Coast Line portion.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 9pt;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">So, now, avoiding the
previous switchback, unrealistic curves, I have a smooth ladder layout for 4
Railroad customer, and a correct prototypical sequence of location! Not bad, I
think.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">What all this means is this next weekend have to
devoted to scrap away the already in position cork ( from the “old” Menlo” to
Palo Alto ) and lay down the new roadbed!</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">Here you see the design “before the cure” and “after
the medicine”:</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tPgftxkYe30/T4gkjNkw1QI/AAAAAAAAA1o/YaRHc5rpRvU/s1600/V10-2012-1k.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SdtmjRrozCw/T4gk8ZDa0NI/AAAAAAAAA14/hTxv4zDrxeI/s1600/V10-2012-1k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="141" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SdtmjRrozCw/T4gk8ZDa0NI/AAAAAAAAA14/hTxv4zDrxeI/s200/V10-2012-1k.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before ....</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b-Gk3cQ_d_Y/T47rDtIF2MI/AAAAAAAAA2g/zEUfPrhjMZo/s1600/V11-2012-2-1k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b-Gk3cQ_d_Y/T47rDtIF2MI/AAAAAAAAA2g/zEUfPrhjMZo/s320/V11-2012-2-1k.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">... and "Now"</td></tr>
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<br /></div>Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-59445547794097556982012-03-29T08:37:00.000-07:002012-06-12T08:32:56.675-07:00Spare updatesA little update for the few visitor here "waiting" some news from the Valley.<br />
As already said I can't find so much time as I want to progress of a significant step, so again I force me to find half an hour someday when I can .... and put my hand on "light projects".<br />
Slow progress is still progress. <br />
<br />
<u><b>Decoders</b></u><br />
I've install some decoders in my steam power ( all Soundtraxx Tsunami 750 , but in one case I was not able to fit more than a Digitraxx non-sound in the Model Power Mogul, and I must say was very funny to see the loco moving without any noise! )<br />
Aside this I've in order two Locksound Select micro : have hear good and bad about this decoder but the price ( more or less 80 bucks) and dimensions ( a bit less than the Tsunami ) seems interesting: we see when I've it on hand.<br />
Also have installed a pair of Brass Key Import F7's ( a Lenz silver in A unit, and a Tsunami with the proper 567 engine in the B ) so have also the possibility to run a Freight with these sweet Blackwidows! Here a picture of the couple:<a href="http://enzofortuna.altervista.org/SP_Diesel_Fs.htm" target="_blank"> http://enzofortuna.altervista.org/SP_Diesel_Fs.htm</a><br />
<br />
<u><b>Layout Plan</b></u> <br />
Got a little review of the plan in two parts:<br />
<b>San Francisco: </b>elimination of two Double Slip without lose the feeling of the original design. Now I've just 4 Double slip to make ( I've already done two!) . Repositioned two turnouts on the Turntable entry to have a better flow for trains composition during Op sessions. Also definitely <span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="en"><span class="hps alt-edited">abandoned the idea of a working Why at Potrero. The space available need a too tight curve to fit and too much work to handlay the needed crossing and turnouts to mainline. So I've dropped all freights departure from Mission Bay staging and it will service to food the Kings Road </span></span><span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="en"><span class="hps alt-edited">yard and </span></span><span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="en"><span class="hps alt-edited">warehouses, from where freight trains will start his trip to south. Just a short piece of track end near the tower and I think to leave some ties and rail on the ground to resemble a renew of track layout. Some "little" workers will be a good subject for a different scene when time will arrive.</span></span> <br />
<b>Menlo Park - Redwood</b>: Redesign of the industrial spurs with one switchback ( despite I don't love this configuration) to fit one industry more.<br />
Here the two Mods:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d5E948dLJ7I/T3R_5qA7TjI/AAAAAAAAA1g/bgyiODtSwQs/s1600/2012-San_Francisco_Mod.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d5E948dLJ7I/T3R_5qA7TjI/AAAAAAAAA1g/bgyiODtSwQs/s320/2012-San_Francisco_Mod.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LcEVUc0SZP8/T3R-sOUCcfI/AAAAAAAAA1I/irIcTzdr3Zo/s1600/Menlo-Redwood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LcEVUc0SZP8/T3R-sOUCcfI/AAAAAAAAA1I/irIcTzdr3Zo/s320/Menlo-Redwood.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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<b>Tracks and Servo installation</b> </div>
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The mainline have suffer a "steady stop", unfortunately in Menlo Park! Southern Pacific is pushing the gang to restart the work and seems some agreement is on signature.... SP officer refer maybe after Eastern the gang leave Menlo to south.... we will see.</div>
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I've anyway make some progress in the servo installation of turnouts in Menlo Park and I will upload here some pictures of the progress. soon.</div>
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Later, friends, for now</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rXaeWcbr9eA/T3R-yiXflZI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/dZNXJAC08f4/s1600/2012-San_Francisco_Mod.jpg" imageanchor="1"><br /></a></div>
<br />Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-54761874788213750652012-01-31T09:18:00.000-08:002012-06-12T08:33:06.893-07:00Tracks reach Burlingame... again?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dtWol3r2R2E/TyghKM5KafI/AAAAAAAAA0U/blyFcATKVFk/s1600/Burlingame_panel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dtWol3r2R2E/TyghKM5KafI/AAAAAAAAA0U/blyFcATKVFk/s200/Burlingame_panel.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Well, in fact tracks are already layed here, and trains have already take a trip along the (future) eucalyptus row…. But the train crew claims for an unknow reason …. to have some way to be able to switch the mainline turnouts ! So Espee have to send a “specialist” there to solve this stupid problem.<br />
Well, he uses a lot of wire, a lot of patience, and this is the result: a new panel ( “unfortunately for the purist … incorporating the “underground” section to Mission Yard: a “mystic” yard that a “legend” position in a different place … )<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HB6ybBD1uyk/TyghLBFbkxI/AAAAAAAAA0c/eL1PbtfGhcc/s1600/Burlingame-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HB6ybBD1uyk/TyghLBFbkxI/AAAAAAAAA0c/eL1PbtfGhcc/s200/Burlingame-2.jpg" width="200" /></a>- <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tkNAEewqbWs/TyghMBWLlAI/AAAAAAAAA0k/Uf87PBuSq7M/s1600/Burlingame.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tkNAEewqbWs/TyghMBWLlAI/AAAAAAAAA0k/Uf87PBuSq7M/s200/Burlingame.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
Here we can see a part of this “under world” where ( to mantain alive the myth… ) a strange but very effective illumination provided by … Christmass tree LEDs…. give a fogless vision to all Engineers searching the correct parking track!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eKFceNCY2FE/TyghslYu7II/AAAAAAAAA00/l4qFlyNrIdc/s1600/Mission_Staging-0.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eKFceNCY2FE/TyghslYu7II/AAAAAAAAA00/l4qFlyNrIdc/s200/Mission_Staging-0.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The entry of the "Under World" at Mission Bay</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LN1DeYmTWO0/TyghtivWKUI/AAAAAAAAA08/7R8_Kt0BQL4/s1600/Mission_Staging-1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LN1DeYmTWO0/TyghtivWKUI/AAAAAAAAA08/7R8_Kt0BQL4/s200/Mission_Staging-1.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Curved turnouts<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FmjRLMfVmZ8/Tyghr5K5riI/AAAAAAAAA0s/XfALhroeOCE/s1600/Mission_Staging-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FmjRLMfVmZ8/Tyghr5K5riI/AAAAAAAAA0s/XfALhroeOCE/s320/Mission_Staging-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><i>See you at next Flag-stop!</i></b><br />
<br />Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-77854402175628484232012-01-31T08:52:00.000-08:002012-06-12T08:33:16.649-07:00“Iron spike” ceremony at Bayshore-VisitacionHere again: news from the “track gang”…<br />
Bayshore tunnel and Visitacion Ice facility received at the end all his tracks and the “gang” installed also all turnouts, servos and wired a “decent” switch panel.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cLGHOkeFFbA/TygaGymIMuI/AAAAAAAAAz8/o8L_6FLVWHw/s1600/Bayshore-Tunnel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cLGHOkeFFbA/TygaGymIMuI/AAAAAAAAAz8/o8L_6FLVWHw/s200/Bayshore-Tunnel.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">North end : tunnel exit</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MXrfeP3hJGA/TygaHmSPGqI/AAAAAAAAA0E/4_G3aDudnWc/s1600/Bayshore1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MXrfeP3hJGA/TygaHmSPGqI/AAAAAAAAA0E/4_G3aDudnWc/s200/Bayshore1.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">South end</td></tr>
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At this point the main goal was to have the line working and trains rolling, and I’ve take a “short path” to implement the panel from the planned one:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9osy6eXNa7I/TygaIOR_hZI/AAAAAAAAA0I/YT9FST4y36E/s1600/Bayshore-Panel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9osy6eXNa7I/TygaIOR_hZI/AAAAAAAAA0I/YT9FST4y36E/s200/Bayshore-Panel.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Panel was made using 5 mm Forex, then I drill all holes for the Tam Valley Fascia controllers, installed all board and wires and lastly I print the panel on 120 grams paper ( using 3rdPlanit) , drill holes with a paper hollow punch and …. That’s all, folks!<br />
To drive the turnouts servo ( see a previous post on this blog ) I use Tam Valley Octopus card.<br />
The last Duncan’s firmware was very good, and the automatic search of the end-point is working very well, given the Fasttracks turnouts need a hard push to points rails.<br />
My only disappointment was the practical useless of this feature when I’ve try to command two turnouts with the same output ( as in crossovers ).<br />
But I “guess” is my fault given my “imperfect” handmade turnouts have different tolerances.<br />
Well, I use one-to-one commands: this just need some additional attention from the crew, but maybe add some more prototypical fashion to the game: switch each turnout one at time and pay attention to the next in the path.<br />
The gang was send to Burlingame for the next upgrade of the line!<br />
Later.....Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-63550601791997098482012-01-31T07:36:00.000-08:002012-06-12T08:33:32.368-07:00The born of a twins couple<br />
Hello friends, <br />
ultimately I’ve not post any progress …. as I’ve not see really relevant progresses!<br />
BUT …. As already stated, ultimately I can’t have a complete day to spend on the hobby, so I’ve adopted a little steps policy, and here is an update, at the end!<br />
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<b><u>A “twins” couple: handmade double crossover</u></b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--W9f65ai190/TygJVoVWSHI/AAAAAAAAAz0/Fb-eMKhuKMk/s1600/2crossover-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--W9f65ai190/TygJVoVWSHI/AAAAAAAAAz0/Fb-eMKhuKMk/s200/2crossover-2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
I’ve plan to use a couple of these combination along the right of way : one in SF before the curve at Mission and the second on the entry to Newhall ( Santa Clara ) yard.<br />
I must say “nothing complicated” (as the double slip, for instance) but not trivial for sure, despite the use of FastTracks jig. The trick adopted to make two sections and then combine them .... well, maybe because it's the first, but made me sweat a bit! FastTracks instructions are “very HO pointed” .<br />
Obviously the photos are on a just completed item, I still need to paint
the sleepers and rails, but I hope to give you the idea anyway.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Z9DzQ4fThg/TygJUIm5axI/AAAAAAAAAzk/PFhT6qq3Ems/s1600/2crossover-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QKDXYu4srH8/TygJU_FnYEI/AAAAAAAAAzs/-_8d_S9Izs8/s200/2crossover-1.jpg" width="200" /> - <img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Z9DzQ4fThg/TygJUIm5axI/AAAAAAAAAzk/PFhT6qq3Ems/s200/2crossover-3.jpg" width="200" /> </a> </div>
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Well, next upgrade have take place at Bayshore-Visitacion .... Follow me :)</div>
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<br /></div>Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-14731831836285172282011-04-26T07:36:00.000-07:002012-06-12T08:33:43.919-07:00Adopting a "little steps" policy ...<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">I’ve take a decision: force me to dedicate half an hour of my time everyday ( well, “more or less” everyday) to advance on my layout. That’s the only way to see something moving, given a sad event to my mother-in-law that make like impossible for me to have a whole afternoon during weekends. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">This “<b><i>little steps</i></b>” approach demonstrates “very” effective ( you remember the Esopo story about the fox and the grapes? )</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Anyway: I’ve finish to wire the DCC track power bus on the two intermediate peninsulas and done with one of the command panels at Burlingame!</span></div>
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To finish the panel I draw it in 3rdPlanit as show, and will print on a transparent adhesive sheet ( pay attention to select a "proper" sheet... if you've a Laser printer and don't want throw away it). <br />
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<span lang="EN-GB">The electronic driver board is one of the “old” <i><b>Octopus </b></i>from <i><b>Tam Valley</b></i> with fixed angle servo driver ( I’ve another two and want to check if I can use for turnouts or I’ve to relegate to drive in the future a </span><span lang="EN-GB">semaphore </span><span lang="EN-GB">blade or other animations). The main reason I doubt was my Fast Tracks point: it's very hard to hold in position.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Experimenting some different solutions for the music wire lever, I turned out with a solution as described in this past post: <a href="http://valleybeforesilicon.blogspot.com/2011/01/modified-actuator-for-servo.html">http://valleybeforesilicon.blogspot.com/2011/01/modified-actuator-for-servo.html</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LtAzF803mwM/TbbVXMndtEI/AAAAAAAAAvM/KihFhrBWQqo/s1600/717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LtAzF803mwM/TbbVXMndtEI/AAAAAAAAAvM/KihFhrBWQqo/s200/717.JPG" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-GB"> Note a short piece of code 55 rail on top of the throw bar that hold the moving wire. I weld it and then made a slot with a Dremel abrasive saw.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">This way I use the elastic wire play, to hold firmly the point rail against the side rail leaving the servos to reach his programmed angle. I’ve add to the octopus 8 relay to switch the frog polarity.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">See this short movie of the result. To hide the actuator wire I plan to cover it with a replica of the pneumatic actuator that was used on the peninsula Coast line at the time ( and till now too! See this picture taken at<b> 3<sup>rd</sup> ...OPS... 4th&Townsend</b> in the City):</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">On the command panel, made by a <b><i>Forex </i></b>sheet, I’ve used DPDT switches (double pole) connecting one pole to the Octopus input and using the second to light a pair of Led indicating the valid route on the front fascia.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">I use rectangular LEDs ( mainly ‘cause I’ve already have a bunch of it) but at the end the visual effect … was better than the “classic” ? To fit the leds just drill a couple of holes with your Dremel tool, then file with a little file (Oh, my poor English!) to obtain the squared corners.</span></div>
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Ok, here a short movie of the "thing":<br />
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<br /></div>Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-35109638257996900052011-01-11T15:08:00.001-08:002012-06-12T08:33:54.671-07:00Modified actuator for servo<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/q7Klz5G4Diw?hl=it&fs=1">
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<span lang="EN-GB">Sorry, friends, but I’ve not found any time 'till now to add a proper description to the movie:</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Now It’s time!</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">I always dislike the arched movement given by the “usual” mounting of music wire on Tortoise and Blue Point actuators, mainly ‘cause on the center point of the movement the wire is out for some part and at both end-points is level with the throw-bar.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Additionally I want to be able to mount everything from the track side, as in some point I don’t have comfortable space from under.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">So, ( I know I’ve re-discover the fresh water!) here is my solution:</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span lang="EN-GB">take a 1,5 mm diameter brass pipe and cut 1mm + your roadbed deep + your plywood deep + 2cm (for me means 5 cm )</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span lang="EN-GB">Take the music wire ( flexible 1 mm) and bend it at 90° at one extremity, leaving 1cm to connect to the throw bar.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span lang="EN-GB">Make a hole in the plywood at 1 cm from the throw-bar and</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span lang="EN-GB">Insert the pipe in the hole and insert the wire in the pipe.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span lang="EN-GB">Bend again at 90° on bottom side using the end of the pipe</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span lang="EN-GB">Cut the wire at 4-5 cm from the pipe.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span lang="EN-GB">Solder a little “U” part ( I’ve used a pin used to hold resistors I’ve spare, but … well check your “maybe can be useful in the future” box for something that can fit your wire and act as support</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span lang="EN-GB">Fit the upper end of the wire into the “U” on the throw-bar.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span lang="EN-GB">Take your servo – fit a piece of strong double side tape on the larger side, to firmly stick the servo on plywood.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span lang="EN-GB">Insert the wire in the servo arm and position the servo aligning the motor perpendicular to the pipe ( in parallel with the turnout throw bar. It don’t need to much precision as the movement is ensure by the flexible wire arm.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">That’s all, folks! And … it’s working well too. The strength needed to force the points to side rails is ensured by the ample swing of the servo arm ( program it at 150° or more)</span></div>
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<br /></div>Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-38365793385837028662010-04-26T05:56:00.000-07:002012-06-12T08:34:05.897-07:00Simple.... but not too much!This weekend I don't have so much time to complete my first double slip, but, after some errors and remake.... here we go!<br />
I can say "now" I really understand why prototype RRs chose to lay down two standard turnouts instead of a double slip, except if space is a big premium!<br />
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Last step will be ... cut the points rails just in place... and fit a half rail joiner to act as a hinge.<br />
Well, we will see how ( if ?) it works in the next post.Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-59504251777776611752010-04-23T08:19:00.000-07:002010-04-23T08:19:48.562-07:00Rails nigthmare? Make it simple with FT tools!Referring to this layout , one of my friend said : "How's proceed your "boat" costruction downstair?"<br />
Well, to demonstrate that I not only like woodworking.... and to satisfy Ricky query about my double slip.... here is the first slip still in progress:<br />
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<tr> <td><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S9G4sZcSI1I/AAAAAAAAAkc/2cd9qbhEVMk/s1600/IMG_0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S9G4sZcSI1I/AAAAAAAAAkc/2cd9qbhEVMk/s200/IMG_0008.JPG" width="200" /></a></div></td> <td><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S9G47P2f9XI/AAAAAAAAAk0/s3hCEVhZzrQ/s1600/DSCN0599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S9G47P2f9XI/AAAAAAAAAk0/s3hCEVhZzrQ/s200/DSCN0599.JPG" width="200" /></a></div></td> </tr>
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Last two pictures are just to compare the Slip with a corresponding #6 simple turnout.<br />
EnjoyEnzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-57845398609775689332010-04-20T07:34:00.000-07:002010-04-20T07:40:22.238-07:00A tiny silver spike : first turnout downLast weekend the "Chief Superintendent" (aka my wife) leave me free, so I spend an entire half of the day downstairs! It was a very productive time!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S825pEp5NpI/AAAAAAAAAjM/DS55wcSPHSg/s1600/Bridge_Inside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="108" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S825pEp5NpI/AAAAAAAAAjM/DS55wcSPHSg/s200/Bridge_Inside.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S825qhaoy4I/AAAAAAAAAjU/w-v6xNmga6Q/s1600/Bridge_Lock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S825qhaoy4I/AAAAAAAAAjU/w-v6xNmga6Q/s200/Bridge_Lock.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Install the Backdrop on the walls back Menlo Park up to Palo Alto: do this job as lone wolf, believe me... not simple nor comfortable! But, this is the life... when you've time... no friends around!<br />
Then some refinements on the lift bridge: retaining walls and a lock.<br />
Then finish to install all "thin hills" along the Bay....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S826U0CX4BI/AAAAAAAAAjc/MVdZP-Sct3M/s1600/CA_hills-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S826U0CX4BI/AAAAAAAAAjc/MVdZP-Sct3M/s200/CA_hills-1.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S826Wv_fJII/AAAAAAAAAjk/KMvVfdrA3XA/s1600/CA_hills-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S826Wv_fJII/AAAAAAAAAjk/KMvVfdrA3XA/s200/CA_hills-2.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
And finally.... why not some tracks?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S826pnjHZ4I/AAAAAAAAAj8/5Fgpma2tZ5I/s1600/Some_hanlayed_turnouts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="123" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S826pnjHZ4I/AAAAAAAAAj8/5Fgpma2tZ5I/s200/Some_hanlayed_turnouts.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S826nWjkFpI/AAAAAAAAAj0/xFO3OXqxIts/s1600/Icing_reefers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S826nWjkFpI/AAAAAAAAAj0/xFO3OXqxIts/s200/Icing_reefers.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I've solder "off-line" 3 #6 turnouts made using a Fastracks jig , cut some ME Flex tracks and test fit the Visitacion icing facility.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S826janfvLI/AAAAAAAAAjs/jMRuYddaXfM/s1600/Icing_Platform.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="103" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S826janfvLI/AAAAAAAAAjs/jMRuYddaXfM/s200/Icing_Platform.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>I'm still waiting the curved turnouts jig I've order two months ago so I can't start from the main line and I decided to wait to glue down tracks as soon I can test fit all turnouts.<br />
I ended this nice day after lunch.... starting my first #6 double slip ( well better to admit... "re-starting" as my first one was destroyed by my "sweet" cats! )Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-56317873177004560792010-04-20T06:53:00.000-07:002010-04-20T07:35:17.659-07:00Tweaking the plan - 2nd Section<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S82xF4DD1cI/AAAAAAAAAi8/fwqW8omGIhE/s1600/V10-2010-1k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S82xF4DD1cI/AAAAAAAAAi8/fwqW8omGIhE/s320/V10-2010-1k.jpg" width="304" /></a>Just two little refinements on the plan:<br />
<ul><li>Added a crossover before Burlingame to better service the Feed Farm and Station Team Track (thanks Alex!)</li>
<li>Added an Icing platform i the Santa Clara background. This is not prototypical, I know but will add some operation possibility ( as well find a place to fit the already done CGlaser platform I've :)</li>
</ul>At Bayshore I plan to rebuilt the concrete PFE platform and icing house at Visitacion. Platform will be built from scratch in styrene and corrugated roof and the house will be a kitbashing from a Walthers kit.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S82xIKsYH1I/AAAAAAAAAjE/XA1k99GwuMk/s1600/V10-2010-1k-3d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S82xIKsYH1I/AAAAAAAAAjE/XA1k99GwuMk/s320/V10-2010-1k-3d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I know on this plan there are some freelanced path , see the list here above, but these are solution I've found to flow future operations ( at least this is the reason I've found to justify the plan? )<br />
<ul><li>The branch to Los Altos - Kaiser cement plant - San Jose ... have both ends in wrong geographic position.</li>
<li>Redwood Jct .have two of the "real" spurs to some industries, but a really "wrong" Wye to Dumbarton bridge! No space to model anything else but I like to have the tower and some possibility to emulate the "false" diverging route. I'm nearly sure to make the "double slip on the main" not operable!</li>
</ul><br />
Well.... next post will be on .... tracks !? You can believe this?Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-51569539347112725402010-02-12T15:46:00.000-08:002010-02-13T14:56:45.066-08:00Tweaking the planAs the benchwork slowly progress, so the trackplan too.<br />
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</a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3cuGBZ3cnI/AAAAAAAAAdE/NfNVG2QHTow/s1600-h/V10-2010-1k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3cuGBZ3cnI/AAAAAAAAAdE/NfNVG2QHTow/s320/V10-2010-1k.jpg" width="316" /></a></div>I’ve refined the Bayshore area , mirroring the Icing spur tracks to have a smooth job for consists that source from the City, transferring there reefers to clean and re-ice.<br />
And, finally found a good design for the Newhall yard. I still need to check in more deep some type of operations, but it seems me that the shape resemble in some way the prototype (with a lot of compression as usual) and enable operators to complete all jobs without create bottleneck. As somebody can note, there is no yard lead !<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3Xm3fqH2CI/AAAAAAAAAc8/gSrtKSb9quc/s1600-h/V10-2010-Staging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3Xm3fqH2CI/AAAAAAAAAc8/gSrtKSb9quc/s320/V10-2010-Staging.jpg" /></a></div>At the end of the layout the staging yard… it’s not a yard! A platform with all parallel track can shift horizontally connecting all tracks to mainline. Eliminating turnouts this is the more compact design I can Image. We have a similar module in Fremo (it’s named with a French world “Coulisse”… and don’t ask me why: I don’t know )<br />
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Another hidden staging yard is positioned in the middle peninsula, above Burlingame , and is connected to the Mission Bay Shop area, emulating Mission Bay yard and interchange with AT&SF. A tight curve for the real Wye where a complete train was turned, is still in the plan, but is still object of additional thinking…. We will see.Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-30225853405907572982010-02-12T13:23:00.000-08:002010-02-12T13:23:51.791-08:00Icing Reefers at Visitacion and down to Menlo ParkWell, as many friends ask for an update, and this blog was born to show the progress in building this layout … here we go! Yesterday I take my camera downstairs and here are some shots of what I’ve hardly achieved!<br />
First of all, as I want to prove me that I’m able to see some tracks down … well, as soon the Kato Unitracks I’ve order for the staging yard on Mission, I rapidly unpack everything and stick the first 4 tracks down.<br />
This give me a better idea about space available to touch cars … not so much, but enough.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3XE89TtmFI/AAAAAAAAAbk/oSPL4nglLZE/s1600-h/Mission-Stage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3XE89TtmFI/AAAAAAAAAbk/oSPL4nglLZE/s200/Mission-Stage1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
Then, using a 1:1 scale printing (on several A3 sheets) of the 3rdPlanit schematics I’ve test the track disposition on Bayshore Icing facility (or what remain of it after a huge and drastic compression ?)<br />
Here a sample (in reality I’ve mirrored now the position, as you can see on the layout schematics… on the next post!).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3XFKtFYRiI/AAAAAAAAAb0/mgpKWb0MoR0/s1600-h/Bayshore2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3XFKtFYRiI/AAAAAAAAAb0/mgpKWb0MoR0/s200/Bayshore2.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3XFJLCWPqI/AAAAAAAAAbs/oppYUvyACzU/s1600-h/Bayshore1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3XFJLCWPqI/AAAAAAAAAbs/oppYUvyACzU/s200/Bayshore1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
Then I copy tracks down on plywood using carbon copy paper (you’re very lucky if you’re able to find it in some shop as with all these computer and printer around is not a simple job )<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3XFUowdLAI/AAAAAAAAAcU/vFphK5EvpLo/s1600-h/FSTX-Template.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3XFUowdLAI/AAAAAAAAAcU/vFphK5EvpLo/s200/FSTX-Template.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3XFMUtRTpI/AAAAAAAAAb8/SkxSVxz-z8k/s1600-h/Bayshore3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3XFMUtRTpI/AAAAAAAAAb8/SkxSVxz-z8k/s200/Bayshore3.jpg" width="181" /></a></div>Using the free template from <a href="http://www.handlaidtrack.com/printable-track-templates-c-11.php">Fasttrack web site</a>, I double check the turnouts and alignments and finally glue the cork roadbed using a special glue for cork I found in a big shop.<br />
In meantime the thin wall that will border the area from the inner loop was finalized. As described in a previous post I fill a 1cm empty space between two masonite sheets with spry foam. Here the final result: a very strong and light wall. The optical effect of two spaced walls , given the hill-shape I used, is convincing me. Next step will be …. The painting job.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3XFWdVt1ZI/AAAAAAAAAcc/gcqyf9AqHDw/s1600-h/Mountains.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="121" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3XFWdVt1ZI/AAAAAAAAAcc/gcqyf9AqHDw/s200/Mountains.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Some additional pictures here, give an idea of the Menlo Park future area and Redwood Junction scenery.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3XFP2mu39I/AAAAAAAAAcE/CX0fMBdplog/s1600-h/MenloPark1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3XFP2mu39I/AAAAAAAAAcE/CX0fMBdplog/s200/MenloPark1.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3XFRx1VVwI/AAAAAAAAAcM/OGGUTRExQ7E/s1600-h/RedWood_Jct.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/S3XFRx1VVwI/AAAAAAAAAcM/OGGUTRExQ7E/s200/RedWood_Jct.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
Take care, friend, for now… this weekend is approaching fast.Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-42928218919510202772009-12-31T06:38:00.000-08:002010-04-20T07:38:58.557-07:00What before the Silver Spike: the roadbed !As an old popular sentence said that “What you do at the end of the year… you do it for all the year”…<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Szy2iMWZIdI/AAAAAAAAAZY/qTA0elnXcVo/s1600-h/Backdrop-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Szy2iMWZIdI/AAAAAAAAAZY/qTA0elnXcVo/s200/Backdrop-1.jpg" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Szy2WLwO1GI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/S-WMWs-I4U4/s1600-h/Alex_at_work.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Szy2WLwO1GI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/S-WMWs-I4U4/s200/Alex_at_work.jpg" /></a>My friend Alex Corsico give me a call and we’ve organized a short meeting with the idea to put some tracks down (a silver spike?).<br />
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But, as I’ve to dedicate my previous time to more “dirty” jobs as finalize the backdrops walls, fill it with expandable foam ( see my previous post )<br />
…. we have just the occasion to test my “Cork roadbed production jig” and put in place some in preparation of tracks. But, anyway, it was a very good time!<br />
I wonder how much “production” is able to do just a couple of friends…. <i style="color: #990000;"><b>And always image “how much ... more friends can put together in a couple of hours” !!!</b></i><span style="color: #990000;"> ... :)</span><br />
See here the physical result of this couple of fellows:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Szy21l-zlMI/AAAAAAAAAZg/RwjFI9qG1Vg/s1600-h/Backdrop-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Szy21l-zlMI/AAAAAAAAAZg/RwjFI9qG1Vg/s200/Backdrop-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="color: #783f04;"><b><i>And here the “theory” and the Jig to manufacture tons of cork roadbed, using a roll of cheap cork:</i></b></div>I’ve cut a piece of 1 meter long wood stock at 45° on one side, then make a cut in the middle, add a strip of wood in the middle (see picture) and glue the 3 pieces together.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Szy19Zgrc8I/AAAAAAAAAZA/8rtSJg-UiiA/s1600-h/Roadbed_jig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Szy19Zgrc8I/AAAAAAAAAZA/8rtSJg-UiiA/s200/Roadbed_jig.jpg" /></a></div>To obtain a piece of roadbed with the proper angled sides, just insert the cork in the slot and using a new blade on the carpet cutter, cut the string. This way you have one side with a good angled shape (if you want a better and clean shape, just pass your “electric file” ( or whatever you call this tool) along the wood jig.<br />
Then rotate the string and file the opposite side. You have a nice /______\ shaped roadbed in a minute.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Szy2Lgc4JsI/AAAAAAAAAZI/L2GinK-8eks/s1600-h/Roadbed-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Szy2Lgc4JsI/AAAAAAAAAZI/L2GinK-8eks/s200/Roadbed-1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Just 2 cents if you don’t have a commercial roadbed on hand!<br />
<div style="color: #990000;"><b><i>Happy New Year to all ! Sincerely</i></b></div><div style="color: #990000;"><b><i>Enzo</i></b></div>Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-74704985628009328642009-11-30T08:33:00.000-08:002009-12-02T08:41:50.244-08:00And he create the ... backdrop walls.<i>In this economic crisis time, just few bucks of wood will take you busy for a period that can seems you as infinite!</i><br />
That said, friends, here I’m !<br />
I take the occasion of my last weekend experiences ( and very slow progress ) to announce you :<br />
<i><b>I’ve discover the wheel again!</b></i><br />
<ol></ol>As I was not really happy of the “mechanic” for the <b>removable bridge</b>, that was just a <i>“drop & play”</i> design, I’ve “steal” the idea from a drawer on my desk: just buy two “drawer sliding guide”. Now the bridge have a proper stop when in place, roll nicely up to the out position and never fall on the floor if you catch it with your head! So simple !<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxPtoS9iIdI/AAAAAAAAAVk/7o1Zo1DBluA/s1600/DSCN4431_800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxPtoS9iIdI/AAAAAAAAAVk/7o1Zo1DBluA/s200/DSCN4431_800.jpg" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxPtrMHU2NI/AAAAAAAAAVs/epjAo83B998/s1600/DSCN4433_800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxPtrMHU2NI/AAAAAAAAAVs/epjAo83B998/s200/DSCN4433_800.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxPyZB1BUzI/AAAAAAAAAWc/AjWuprJzN8Q/s1600/Peninsula-w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxPyZB1BUzI/AAAAAAAAAWc/AjWuprJzN8Q/s200/Peninsula-w.jpg" /></a>Then I’m thinking to a “cost effective” (how the marketing peoples call the “cheap” one) and at same time sturdy solution, for the backdrop wall in the middle of the peninsulas. This will be in my mind a “Thin wall” (as Bruce Morden call it ) that separate the outside visible tracks from the inside loop. As a drawing is better than thousand words… see what I’m speaking here right :<br />
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I take the idea from the walls of caravans and campers: basically a simple multi-frame made by 1 cm deep wood, covered by a (well two, one each side) masonite layer, and the empty gap filled by the expandable foam.<br />
Here is a sample of what I'm speaking :<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.saratoga.it/ita/products_detail.asp?iProvenienza=2&IdProdotto=%7B628EFC94-4134-40A4-8AC1-993840D93C98%7D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxaYi37z4hI/AAAAAAAAAXs/i1MBppOiZZM/s320/Pictures-1.gif" /></a><br />
</div>You will find this on several home repair shops in a spray big can.<br />
When you spry the foam is soft and you can shape it, but when dry it become “solid-soft” and contribute to the strength of the wall.<br />
The result is a very light but sturdy backdrop wall than , if properly fixed to the bench work, is self-supporting.<br />
<table border="2" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="0" style="width: 400px;"><tbody>
<tr> <td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxQBK3D9lxI/AAAAAAAAAXc/MvTfvp3AU-Y/s1600/DSCN4426_800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxQBK3D9lxI/AAAAAAAAAXc/MvTfvp3AU-Y/s200/DSCN4426_800.jpg" /></a><br />
</td> <td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxP4Ay2fEXI/AAAAAAAAAXE/-MI9Fm8QKOI/s1600/DSCN4435_800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxP4Ay2fEXI/AAAAAAAAAXE/-MI9Fm8QKOI/s200/DSCN4435_800.jpg" /></a><br />
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<tr> <td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxP4oMsAYOI/AAAAAAAAAXU/np9CqSF9oFY/s1600/DSCN4436_800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxP4oMsAYOI/AAAAAAAAAXU/np9CqSF9oFY/s200/DSCN4436_800.jpg" /></a><br />
</td> <td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxP0lqrC5MI/AAAAAAAAAWs/KpdFkJCjX5g/s1600/DSCN4430_800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxP0lqrC5MI/AAAAAAAAAWs/KpdFkJCjX5g/s200/DSCN4430_800.jpg" /></a><br />
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<tr> <td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxP4CEAIqtI/AAAAAAAAAXM/5cPPCu9Nies/s1600/DSCN4437_800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SxP4CEAIqtI/AAAAAAAAAXM/5cPPCu9Nies/s200/DSCN4437_800.jpg" /></a><br />
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</tbody></table>Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-21043935524853572782009-10-28T15:46:00.000-07:002010-04-20T07:39:23.132-07:00The line advance southWell friends,<br />
to mitigate my little envy for all of you that are planning to travel to SLO for the annual SPH&TS convention (<a href="http://www.sphts.org/convention/"> http://www.sphts.org/convention/</a> ) … I’ve spend all of my free time on refining the tracks path, optimize some parts for better OP and find better solutions in places where I have doubts for scenery. Here is my effort summary:<br />
<ul><li><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SuTHBtbLEUI/AAAAAAAAARw/0TS3lqKQW6I/s1600-h/Staging_Mission-Bay_web.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396657085684060482" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SuTHBtbLEUI/AAAAAAAAARw/0TS3lqKQW6I/s200/Staging_Mission-Bay_web.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 200px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 183px;" /></a> Mission Bay yard have definitely found a place as a living staging place. This yard will mainly feed and receive freights working the LCL facilities at King and Berry st , but can also be used to store passengers named trains. The commuter cars have a living stage in the coach yard along Townsend st.</li>
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<ul><li> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SuXFbsR-9II/AAAAAAAAASA/Yhz9dIFoGRI/s1600-h/2009-Nov.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396936808007136386" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SuXFbsR-9II/AAAAAAAAASA/Yhz9dIFoGRI/s200/2009-Nov.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 200px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 196px;" /></a>Enlarged workbench depth at Potrero Tower and the Mission Roundhouse to have place for the prototype Wye from Mission Bay yard. Border-wall distance now is 72cm (28” ) , still good to reach all tracks with my arm, and enough to place a 28 cm radius (11” still too tight , I know, for MT and GS) but at least a switcher with some reefers can go from Visitacion Ice house to Mission Bay yard (staging) and back.<br />
</li>
</ul><ul><li> Burlingame and Menlo track layout are mostly defined as well some spurs and correspondent indicative industries along the line up to Palo Alto.</li>
</ul><ul><li>The branch to Permanente plant and the Kaiser little yard have reach a reasonable and operable shape, but maybe I need to work more on these places. One siding is provided at Los Altos station. </li>
</ul><ul><li> A good discussion with a friend, Alex Corsico, takes to a good idea about the backdrop position on the critical area between Mission Roundhouse and the Burlingame-Menlo main line. I will take a shot of a temporary placed “thin wall” to show you.</li>
</ul>Last but not least, the “bulldozers” are progressing down the peninsula!<br />
I will take some pictures of the “land” in few days, so, stay in tracks!<br />
........<br />
You're still in, friends? Well, "<span style="font-style: italic;">later</span>" is ... <span style="font-weight: bold;">now</span>! Enjoy!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SuYCxVBmNfI/AAAAAAAAASw/38-j5qCC0wU/s1600-h/Roundhouse_Web3.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397004249930806770" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SuYCxVBmNfI/AAAAAAAAASw/38-j5qCC0wU/s200/Roundhouse_Web3.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 150px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 200px;" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SuYCh6IS2kI/AAAAAAAAASo/efI9HbQvImo/s1600-h/Roundhouse_Web2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397003985013103170" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SuYCh6IS2kI/AAAAAAAAASo/efI9HbQvImo/s200/Roundhouse_Web2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 150px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SuYBpSDzWGI/AAAAAAAAASI/5AnP8dL7uk8/s1600-h/bridge_web1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397003012184168546" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SuYBpSDzWGI/AAAAAAAAASI/5AnP8dL7uk8/s200/bridge_web1.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 150px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 200px;" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SuYCR6dV6DI/AAAAAAAAASg/j3Brfr_L3C0/s1600-h/bridge_web4.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397003710223476786" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SuYCR6dV6DI/AAAAAAAAASg/j3Brfr_L3C0/s200/bridge_web4.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 150px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 200px;" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SuYCGzTzBrI/AAAAAAAAASY/Radl9u8jdNs/s1600-h/bridge_web3.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397003519325832882" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SuYCGzTzBrI/AAAAAAAAASY/Radl9u8jdNs/s200/bridge_web3.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 150px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 200px;" /></a>Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-13117825900860533932009-08-21T09:06:00.000-07:002009-08-21T16:31:21.304-07:00Menlo Park depot : a victorian pearlFriends,<br />it's an hot summer here and I've take the occasion to enhance an already beautiful kit made by Showcase Miniatures to fulfil all main details of this depot during the late ‘47 .<br />I’ve done in the past several research on the story of this pearl along the SP commute line from the City to San Jose, and, as you can read here ( <a href="http://xoomer.virgilio.it/enzo_fortuna/MenloPark.html">http://xoomer.virgilio.it/enzo_fortuna/MenloPark.html</a>) I’ve compiled a summary of all modifications that this depot have during the life. Some far friends ( Rob <span class="Stile22"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Stile23"><span class="Stile13"><span class="Stile20">Sarberenyi </span></span></span></span></span>and Robert Morris ) have support me with pictures of details as you can see here <a href="http://www.pbase.com/espeef5/menlo_park">http://www.pbase.com/espeef5/menlo_park</a> and here <a href="http://enzo-fortuna.iitalia.com/Menlo-Park_pictures/Menlo_Pic-index.html">http://enzo-fortuna.iitalia.com/Menlo-Park_pictures/Menlo_Pic-index.html</a><br />Given the general dimensions of the Showcase kit are more or less correct ( see the original drawings here <a href="http://enzo-fortuna.iitalia.com/Menlo-Park_drawings/index.html">http://enzo-fortuna.iitalia.com/Menlo-Park_drawings/index.html</a>) what mostly the kit leaves out is the passenger shelter and some details, specially on the roof ).<br />I decided to spend some time on my scratchbuild bench, and here are the results.<br />Hope you enjoy it!<br />____________________________________________<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7S-saB7OI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/uwNNk3rXhpc/s1600-h/blog-4153.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 159px; height: 95px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7S-saB7OI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/uwNNk3rXhpc/s200/blog-4153.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372463380013640930" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7S_J9hjqI/AAAAAAAAAQY/cZ0CqVBFpt8/s1600-h/blog-4154.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 103px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7S_J9hjqI/AAAAAAAAAQY/cZ0CqVBFpt8/s200/blog-4154.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372463387947142818" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7S-XvXqqI/AAAAAAAAAQI/a07kw-CvEWA/s1600-h/blog-4152.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 170px; height: 54px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7S-XvXqqI/AAAAAAAAAQI/a07kw-CvEWA/s200/blog-4152.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372463374466001570" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7S_VWhYII/AAAAAAAAAQg/oYhhJMhkZII/s1600-h/blog-4155.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 161px; height: 65px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7S_VWhYII/AAAAAAAAAQg/oYhhJMhkZII/s200/blog-4155.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372463391004778626" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />These are the final pictures of the depot, here down the step by step pictures.<br />____________________________________________________<br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7LXGrmJ6I/AAAAAAAAANw/t7855mq0BOQ/s1600-h/blog-4056.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7LXGrmJ6I/AAAAAAAAANw/t7855mq0BOQ/s200/blog-4056.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372455003290478498" border="0" /></a>- Flat styrene base shaped around the depot with the passengers shed extension. I’ve glued a second layer of paved styrene ( cut at 45° ) for the floor of the shelter. First spray a base light grey and then dry brush with brick dark red.</li></ul><br /><br /><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7LXjbAHYI/AAAAAAAAAN4/F_zcqEBTQOk/s1600-h/blog-4058.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 123px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7LXjbAHYI/AAAAAAAAAN4/F_zcqEBTQOk/s200/blog-4058.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372455011005504898" border="0" /></a>- Framed the shelter floor with walnut strips and darken with a wash of alcohol & india ink.</li></ul><br /><br /><br /><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7LYJ25A7I/AAAAAAAAAOA/gRgUvZlIVwY/s1600-h/blog-4060.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 121px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7LYJ25A7I/AAAAAAAAAOA/gRgUvZlIVwY/s200/blog-4060.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372455021323027378" border="0" /></a>- brushing some single plates give different shades of wear. Then put in place the depot.</li></ul><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7MDptgUYI/AAAAAAAAAOI/E-qbg7CT-IQ/s1600-h/blog-4064.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 130px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7MDptgUYI/AAAAAAAAAOI/E-qbg7CT-IQ/s200/blog-4064.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372455768607969666" border="0" /></a>- preparing pieces for the shelter : board with styrene framed by nut sticks, columns made by 3 wood pieces ( squared base – column – 45% filed head… glued together … well, next time I will made a resin moulder! Manage these microbes is not so funny )</li></ul><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7MEnM0CbI/AAAAAAAAAOY/lpXl5H1tRuU/s1600-h/blog-4069.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 74px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7MEnM0CbI/AAAAAAAAAOY/lpXl5H1tRuU/s200/blog-4069.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372455785113848242" border="0" /></a>- the top of the shelter done!</li></ul><br /><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7MEHHGDLI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/MjfvCov8uqo/s1600-h/blog-4065.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 146px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7MEHHGDLI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/MjfvCov8uqo/s200/blog-4065.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372455776499928242" border="0" /></a>- and a bird view of all parts before mounting</li></ul><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7MEyr2CoI/AAAAAAAAAOg/1b-o6kHnzqo/s1600-h/blog-4092.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 141px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7MEyr2CoI/AAAAAAAAAOg/1b-o6kHnzqo/s200/blog-4092.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372455788196792962" border="0" /></a>- … and after</li></ul><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7NITHjx4I/AAAAAAAAAOo/WFnnKfL1l_0/s1600-h/blog-4104.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 97px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7NITHjx4I/AAAAAAAAAOo/WFnnKfL1l_0/s200/blog-4104.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372456947954206594" border="0" /></a>- Now (another tedious job!) shingles on the roof. I’ve select two types of shapes (cedar squared and diamonds ) to replicate the prototype variation ( see the picture here: <a href="http://www.pbase.com/espeef5/image/77115096">http://www.pbase.com/espeef5/image/77115096</a> ).<br /></li></ul><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7NImmSr5I/AAAAAAAAAOw/7nFRvRC9rSk/s1600-h/blog-4107.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 139px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7NImmSr5I/AAAAAAAAAOw/7nFRvRC9rSk/s200/blog-4107.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372456953183383442" border="0" /></a>- To give the impression of the super-elevated roof on the shelter ( see the original here ) I glued some wood sticks on top of the cardstock roof cover, then covered everything with thin paper.</li></ul><br /><br /><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7NJA5MUOI/AAAAAAAAAO4/_v2MEtOo4zg/s1600-h/blog-4110.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 139px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7NJA5MUOI/AAAAAAAAAO4/_v2MEtOo4zg/s200/blog-4110.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372456960241979618" border="0" /></a>- An U squared styrene strip all around and brass wires shaped to simulate water pipes.</li></ul><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7NJgv4CjI/AAAAAAAAAPA/SIiwqm7ILis/s1600-h/blog-4117.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 154px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7NJgv4CjI/AAAAAAAAAPA/SIiwqm7ILis/s200/blog-4117.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372456968792836658" border="0" /></a>- Water pipes installed on rail side and shingles on the windows sun covers. Painted the shingles in dark olive green. </li></ul><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7NJ88ZxUI/AAAAAAAAAPI/epXawuLeR-4/s1600-h/blog-4118.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 64px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7NJ88ZxUI/AAAAAAAAAPI/epXawuLeR-4/s200/blog-4118.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372456976361571650" border="0" /></a>- A step back to admire your job ( and also note some wrong details too )</li></ul><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7SS6J5xpI/AAAAAAAAAQA/KXXH9RP2j7A/s1600-h/blog-4119.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 177px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7SS6J5xpI/AAAAAAAAAQA/KXXH9RP2j7A/s200/blog-4119.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372462627789850258" border="0" /></a>- And a step forward ( how so crude is the digital picture machine: it enlighten all little miss-alignments and ….. well I know “where”)</li></ul><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7OxakDk2I/AAAAAAAAAPQ/4KmI3edAZ4A/s1600-h/blog-4125.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 77px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7OxakDk2I/AAAAAAAAAPQ/4KmI3edAZ4A/s200/blog-4125.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372458753839043426" border="0" /></a>- OK, now playing with fleas again! The roof corners ornaments are made by …. styrene and brass.</li></ul><br /><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7Oxndkq1I/AAAAAAAAAPY/MCF-v9e2i1I/s1600-h/blog-4129.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 145px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7Oxndkq1I/AAAAAAAAAPY/MCF-v9e2i1I/s200/blog-4129.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372458757301513042" border="0" /></a>- a short cut of U strip contain a piece of brass pipe ( flatten and then filed to have the hearth shape of the point). Then I’ve added 4 little strips of styrene also shaped with a jeweller file.</li></ul><br /><br /><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7Rx379x4I/AAAAAAAAAP4/b51PNLgdpJY/s1600-h/blog-4142.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 144px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7Rx379x4I/AAAAAAAAAP4/b51PNLgdpJY/s200/blog-4142.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372462060258838402" border="0" /></a>- Station name plates ( 3 different dimensions ) also filed from styrene. One on the shingled roof of the pagoda.</li></ul><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7OyU_rG8I/AAAAAAAAAPo/gJ43zxL72Rg/s1600-h/blog-4148.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 91px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7OyU_rG8I/AAAAAAAAAPo/gJ43zxL72Rg/s200/blog-4148.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372458769524136898" border="0" /></a>- One on top of the Bay window and the last one on the shelter.</li></ul><br /><br /><ul><li><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7OyxVx33I/AAAAAAAAAPw/yEfA0kYSkYo/s1600-h/blog-4152.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 64px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/So7OyxVx33I/AAAAAAAAAPw/yEfA0kYSkYo/s200/blog-4152.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372458777133047666" border="0" /></a>- I’ve noted on the pre-1964 pictures a little brick chimney positioned on back side of the roof ( not exactly as mine, but … that's what I've found in my scrap box for now!)</li></ul><br />Now I "only" need to search a proper character font (<a href="http://www.pbase.com/espeef5/image/77115088"> http://www.pbase.com/espeef5/image/77115088</a> ) to fill the station name and put some additional details ( as a Timetable on the wall, baggage carriage ..... and so on)<br /><br />Compare with the real pictures …. And, please, consider the scale and that on the layout you appreciate the depot from … an airplane point of view!Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-67928725668668736592009-07-21T03:37:00.000-07:002009-07-21T04:15:14.894-07:00The "bridge" in placeWell, as I've predicted, what you put on a drawing and seams "perfect" .... when you realize in reality ... never happens ( at least on my construction!).<br />I must confirm again... this part of the hobby is not my job.<br />The previous mentioned bridge between the two peninsulas was planned as a swing bridge, as the initial shape was a rectangle. During the development of the plan, given the easements and enlarging the curves to obtain a better realistic tracking for 80' passengers cars, the bridge shape was changing to ... an "L" ? See the previous pictures above.<br />That said... it was hard to plan an hinge in an appropriate position!<br />So, I just shift to a "shift bridge" , or better to a removable module. In fact, discussing with some of the future crew, the need to open the bridge was only to entry to the Dispatcher table at the beginning of the Op session .... and for him.... to reach the bathroom "occasionally" !<br />Anyway, here are the hard work steps in the construction, for the few "carpentry lovers" here around.<br />Cover the Spiline with plywood: I put some paper (recycle some paper roll already printed on one side from the office?) on top of the Spilines , follow with a pencil the border, then cut the paper and position on the plywood to optimize the wood cut.<br />I start with the bridge section, ending where the bridge will "presumably" end:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SmWgDEUjKjI/AAAAAAAAAMc/FkT3z8vLDUI/s1600-h/_800_DSCN4005.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 173px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SmWgDEUjKjI/AAAAAAAAAMc/FkT3z8vLDUI/s200/_800_DSCN4005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360866906014427698" border="0" /></a>----<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SmWgv_ajfrI/AAAAAAAAAM8/8xtCTyOYVTc/s1600-h/_800_DSCN4015.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SmWgv_ajfrI/AAAAAAAAAM8/8xtCTyOYVTc/s200/_800_DSCN4015.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360867677791551154" border="0" /></a><br />Then shape the sections immediately near on the curve:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SmWgaDK9VbI/AAAAAAAAAMs/VECXyvBZx-Q/s1600-h/_800_DSCN4012.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SmWgaDK9VbI/AAAAAAAAAMs/VECXyvBZx-Q/s200/_800_DSCN4012.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360867300842755506" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SmWgkbVmJpI/AAAAAAAAAM0/C9CgnPKzR5Q/s1600-h/_800_DSCN4013.jpg">----<img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SmWgkbVmJpI/AAAAAAAAAM0/C9CgnPKzR5Q/s200/_800_DSCN4013.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360867479128516242" border="0" /></a><br />Here I'm cutting the bridge at the end:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SmWg6jh6B7I/AAAAAAAAANE/hWimh6wq8cA/s1600-h/_800_DSCN4016.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SmWg6jh6B7I/AAAAAAAAANE/hWimh6wq8cA/s200/_800_DSCN4016.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360867859284756402" border="0" /></a>----<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SmWgNjFhAqI/AAAAAAAAAMk/A-uYp3oJ0LY/s1600-h/_800_DSCN4011.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SmWgNjFhAqI/AAAAAAAAAMk/A-uYp3oJ0LY/s200/_800_DSCN4011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360867086071562914" border="0" /></a><br />The final removable section in place!<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SmWhL4fT_JI/AAAAAAAAANM/eNTdgBgjAXg/s1600-h/_800_DSCN4017.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SmWhL4fT_JI/AAAAAAAAANM/eNTdgBgjAXg/s200/_800_DSCN4017.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360868156968795282" border="0" /></a>----<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SmWiCsWQOSI/AAAAAAAAANU/WBR8TMymhRU/s1600-h/_800_DSCN4018.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SmWiCsWQOSI/AAAAAAAAANU/WBR8TMymhRU/s200/_800_DSCN4018.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360869098602379554" border="0" /></a></div>Next ... "Up to the stars ... to the infinite"Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-64508838358184758992009-06-16T09:35:00.000-07:002009-06-16T09:49:12.709-07:00San Francisco tracks reviewAs I've stated in the previous post, the City stub was too crowded!<br />I've done a review of the plan and doing so... oh, you see here: lot of compromise in place!<br />But at the end I thing better operational possibility and not so much revolution from the prototype.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SjfL1R2at_I/AAAAAAAAALc/Rbfgssota6s/s1600-h/V10-2009-SF-800.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 158px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SjfL1R2at_I/AAAAAAAAALc/Rbfgssota6s/s200/V10-2009-SF-800.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347967198710904818" border="0" /></a></div>- We loose 3 tracks on the passenger stub.<br />- I've add a switcher pocket that in reality don't exist.<br />- I've provided better curve to reach the City from tunnel #1.<br />- The 7th street tracks now run as the prototype.<br />- There is also the line to Backer&Hamilton warehouse.<br />- And the simulation of the connection to industries spurs crossing Townsend street.<br />- Unfortunately, no way to provide a decent Wye back to Potrero tower.<br />- The Mission Bay shop have two service tracks to reach the Turntable.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SjfMXSHgVHI/AAAAAAAAALk/GzM_iG_kPfA/s1600-h/V10-2009-800.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 178px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SjfMXSHgVHI/AAAAAAAAALk/GzM_iG_kPfA/s200/V10-2009-800.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347967782898127986" border="0" /></a>Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-78272730459826809752009-06-12T15:53:00.000-07:002009-06-13T05:54:02.088-07:00Using a printer to “view in the future”I’ve put in place two ideas, today, and seams both have got some kind of result:<br />- <span style="font-weight: bold;">I’ve print the whole 3rd & Townsend area</span> using row/columns split capability of 3rd PlanIt, put in place the “patchwork” of printed sheets with paper tape , and , taken a step back, admired that .....<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SjLdVbS3sTI/AAAAAAAAAKc/0wveQrUKnyE/s1600-h/1-DSCN2983.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SjLdVbS3sTI/AAAAAAAAAKc/0wveQrUKnyE/s200/1-DSCN2983.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346579067816096050" border="0" /></a>---<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SjLdfixrkhI/AAAAAAAAAKk/5-DqfNlQZ8k/s1600-h/1-DSCN2984.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SjLdfixrkhI/AAAAAAAAAKk/5-DqfNlQZ8k/s200/1-DSCN2984.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346579241623065106" border="0" /></a><br />....I need some “fine tune” in the design: maybe a track less in the passenger stub and more distance from the passenger to the freight yards….. I need to think about.... Anyway the area seams too crowded for the moment!<br />Some more space between tracks with the “butterfly” platforms.<br />And, doing so, also the space for the sweet mission style station go a bit more in scale.<br />Some additional space is also needed along the 7th st. along the front wall to have the tracks running partially on the street pavement and a better separation from the “false” wye around Potrero tower.<br />(false for the narrow radius of one side, that can’t be used to turn a whole consist as the prototype. I leave this just for scenery and give the feeling of the real things).<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SjLdFqj-ARI/AAAAAAAAAKU/YyCq2n9Tezw/s1600-h/3rd%26Townsend.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 142px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SjLdFqj-ARI/AAAAAAAAAKU/YyCq2n9Tezw/s200/3rd%26Townsend.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346578797036437778" border="0" /></a></div>But, at the end, a good experience! This printout give me more positive feedbacks than just the drawing on the computer screen.<br /><br />- The second idea was born yesterday, when a kind friend, George Dean , Bayshore native, send me a <span style="font-weight: bold;">big aerial picture of the City</span>, I presume taken from the top of the Bay bridge in 1970-74 period.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SjLjazZMzwI/AAAAAAAAALM/1YIHDHgzo9g/s1600-h/sf71.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 33px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SjLjazZMzwI/AAAAAAAAALM/1YIHDHgzo9g/s320/sf71.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346585757254209282" border="0" /></a>Well, this give me the idea to try to use an half of this picture as background for the City part of the layout.<br />With some patient work I evaluate the length I need (and more or less I underestimate of … one meter= 40” ! ), then crop the part I need , re-dimensioned the picture with the real dimensions of the wall, smooth a bit the pixels that now seams evident and finally print on a big color plotter.<br />As I was so impatient to see the result all together, I’ve just put the roll of paper on the wall without cut away at least the bottom white border…. Another step back to admire…. Not too bad, but just .. out of measure!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SjLdp1lfGOI/AAAAAAAAAKs/OsMxMJahDhE/s1600-h/1-DSCN2986.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SjLdp1lfGOI/AAAAAAAAAKs/OsMxMJahDhE/s200/1-DSCN2986.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346579418470881506" border="0" /></a>---<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SjLd5u10HtI/AAAAAAAAAK0/I1I1jiE9ezM/s1600-h/1-DSCN2988.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SjLd5u10HtI/AAAAAAAAAK0/I1I1jiE9ezM/s200/1-DSCN2988.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346579691538226898" border="0" /></a><br />Taking in mind that the border of layout will hold low relief buildings and this will cover the nearest details the things that seams disturbing is … only that thinks are not in the proper place!<br />But… again… not too bad?<br />Well, I need to cancel from the picture the visible tower of the Bay bridge, then strech the whole thing to fill the “distant” background of Mission Shop, render some foggy morning in the same area to have a proper background to the Potrero hill….and reprint.<br />In the meantime I need to prepare a good masonite base on the wall….<br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">OK: I well know this job will never finish! I’ve realized now!<br />But, it seams a good start?</span>Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-63367908566024300412009-06-08T15:09:00.000-07:002009-06-12T16:06:07.417-07:00The bridge: Round oneFriends, just 6 seconds to view 6 pictures!<br />The splines for the "suspended" (then "swing or lift" ) bridge are in place!<br />I think there is no need to comment ?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Si2NRRG00YI/AAAAAAAAAJY/f48xE4-M3gc/s1600-h/DSCN2975_800.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 177px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Si2NRRG00YI/AAAAAAAAAJY/f48xE4-M3gc/s200/DSCN2975_800.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345083660547969410" border="0" /></a>---<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Si2NryGWZCI/AAAAAAAAAJw/YL7lnsG6CWk/s1600-h/DSCN2980_800.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 156px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Si2NryGWZCI/AAAAAAAAAJw/YL7lnsG6CWk/s200/DSCN2980_800.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345084116080944162" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Si2NfWkmVAI/AAAAAAAAAJo/rorjGMIkYLY/s1600-h/DSCN2977_400.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Si2NfWkmVAI/AAAAAAAAAJo/rorjGMIkYLY/s200/DSCN2977_400.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345083902533194754" border="0" /></a>---<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Si2NY_jrjJI/AAAAAAAAAJg/xlpueVuIrs4/s1600-h/DSCN2976_400.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 183px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Si2NY_jrjJI/AAAAAAAAAJg/xlpueVuIrs4/s200/DSCN2976_400.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345083793276112018" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Si2OE10YShI/AAAAAAAAAKA/FNSdyE3G-xc/s1600-h/DSCN2982_800.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Si2OE10YShI/AAAAAAAAAKA/FNSdyE3G-xc/s200/DSCN2982_800.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345084546576042514" border="0" /></a>---<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Si2N3KPhXOI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/q6TxZFNBds4/s1600-h/DSCN2981_800.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Si2N3KPhXOI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/q6TxZFNBds4/s200/DSCN2981_800.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345084311540423906" border="0" /></a>Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8564119313314124156.post-9686777659240952692009-06-03T08:48:00.000-07:002009-06-12T16:06:28.494-07:00The lift bridge... a top-down project.Some little progress ahead this week:<br />- the two middle room peninsulas now have definitive splines ready for the sub-roadbed<br />- The lift bridge between have start to take shape.<br />About this last project, I've take an approach that "seams" strange, but to me have sense after several consideration. I've first taken in place the two spline pairs for the two-track main line. Then I plan to support these with the bridge chassis. In this way I can have an exact idea of the vertical projection I need to support and consequently the size and shape of the bridge.<br />I plan to build the support bridge with a separate chassis and then slice and split the splines.<br />See the pictures here above:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SiaeLRw0IbI/AAAAAAAAAIw/eYAnPNEv_XU/s1600-h/DSCN2963_800.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SiaeLRw0IbI/AAAAAAAAAIw/eYAnPNEv_XU/s200/DSCN2963_800.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343131924505567666" border="0" /></a>---<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Siaeo1Z4P6I/AAAAAAAAAJI/5ROSki88YLA/s1600-h/DSCN2967_800.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 158px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/Siaeo1Z4P6I/AAAAAAAAAJI/5ROSki88YLA/s200/DSCN2967_800.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343132432289251234" border="0" /></a><br />Brisbane & Bayshore (left) ___--- (right) Burlingame<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SiaeEGE1BAI/AAAAAAAAAIo/fxgBM2UqRm8/s1600-h/DSCN2962_800.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 153px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SiaeEGE1BAI/AAAAAAAAAIo/fxgBM2UqRm8/s200/DSCN2962_800.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343131801109201922" border="0" /></a>---<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SiaeUPpF-7I/AAAAAAAAAI4/WBMO26REJRg/s1600-h/DSCN2964_800.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SiaeUPpF-7I/AAAAAAAAAI4/WBMO26REJRg/s200/DSCN2964_800.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343132078555134898" border="0" /></a><br />Bridge Spline in place (the down line need a second spline)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SiaeeQiOwAI/AAAAAAAAAJA/3xg9rhNaWRo/s1600-h/DSCN2965_800.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 171px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SiaeeQiOwAI/AAAAAAAAAJA/3xg9rhNaWRo/s200/DSCN2965_800.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343132250593476610" border="0" /></a>---<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SiafUU4DVXI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/JZgsVS6JOZg/s1600-h/DSCN2971_800.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 138px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KfNJ2lSTSa8/SiafUU4DVXI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/JZgsVS6JOZg/s200/DSCN2971_800.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343133179471680882" border="0" /></a><br />Another view and the first bridge support.Enzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12769994478785851106noreply@blogger.com0