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MODEL TRAIN DEFECT DETECTOR
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Simulate a Model Train Defect Detector
on your layout
××× NO COMPUTER NEEDED
×××
Up for sale is an
interesting product for your train layout: a Model Train Defect Detector
(MTDD). The picture shows what the hardware
might look like along a real train track.
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We have been selling this product for several years now and
have always used the sound card in a computer to create the sounds. This new product uses an MP3 player chipset
to create the sounds. The sounds are
stored on an SD memory card.
YOU DO NOT NEED A COMPUTER TO USE THIS
PRODUCT!
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The picture shows the
entire Model Train Defect Detector that consists of:
- main
unit measuring 8x3x1 inches;
- power
supply;
- IR
sensor pair.
All of the circuitry and SD sound card are mounted inside
the black box. All the wiring
connects inside the box.
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The SD memory card is inside the unit. All the sounds
are stored on the SD memory card and get played (as needed) through the speaker
mounted on top of the unit. The speaker can be removed and mounted in
a location on your layout if you desire.
The MTDD includes a complete set of sound files and will
work immediately.
HISTORY
Train Defect Detectors have been
installed at strategic positions along railways for many years. The purpose of
these systems is to automatically detect potentially dangerous failures in
passing trains. The detectors transmit a voice synthesized alarm message over a
railroad radio frequency to inform the train crew of a defect.
In operation, after the train completely
passes the sensors, a "talker" will annunciate a message over the
radio to inform the train crew of the number of axles, train speed and
direction, and type of defect. If a train passes without problem,
the talker transmits a "no defects found" message over the
radio. After the equipment defect alarm is announced, the train crew will
usually stop the train and perform an inspection to determine the cause of the
problem. The crew will notify the dispatcher of the problem and how much of a
delay can be expected.
The Model Train Defect Detector system
presented here makes use of trackside infrared sensors to determine:
- Number of axles
- Train speed
- Direction of travel
- Temperature*
- Defects*
*The temperature is the room temperature
measured with an onboard sensor.
*The defects are actually pre-programmed and
occur randomly. There are six possible defects.
YOU DO NOT NEED A COMPUTER TO USE THIS
PRODUCT!
LED/PHOTO-SENSOR
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The LED/Photo-Sensor pair
is mounted so the light beam shines across and slightly above the train track
as shown in the diagram.
The light beam is an
Infrared beam and cannot be seen.
There is an led on one side
and a photo-sensor on the other side of the track.
Changes in room lighting
will not have any effect on this system.
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PLAY MESSAGE