Kelvin

A change made to Kelvin in September 2002 was to permit "remote" operation of the up-end turnout. When the layout was operated with cab-control, the need to come back to panel continually was less of a concern. With DCC however, if the operator is standing beside the loco at the up-end of the yard, walking back to the panel to change the turnout seemed to be an annoyance.

To remedy this the toggle switch in the panel was replaced by a DPDT "alternative action" push-button, with a second switch located in the fascia next to the turnout itself. This removes the requirement for an operator to walk back to the panel just to change the turnout.

In order to determine the lay of the turnout, indicator LEDs were added to the panel and adjacent to the push botton in the fascia. Subsequently LEDs were included for all turnouts in the mainline through the station, meaning it is now possible to clearly see that the route is set through the mainline from the Anunaka or Wirrandra operating positions. Whilst not important in a full operating session, it will be very useful when I am operating by myself

Above we see the control panel and assorted other control functions at Kelvin. The LEDs are faintly visible along the mainline from the left, and out to the right (taking the diverging route). Above the panel are my "continuity" LEDs indicating that traction (blue) and auxiliary power (yellow) is available on the module. To the right is a manual actuator for the hinged magnets, and beyond that a toggle for a similar device, but driven by a switchmaster due to its location. The throttle hanging on the fascia is an EasyDCC tethered variety.

Here we have the fascia mounted push button for local control of the Kelvin up-end turnout. LEDs have been installed above and below the turnout to indicate the lay of the blades, but since the button is so close to the actual turnout, I won't include this feature in any other similar installations (which are scheduled for the three up-end turnouts at Anunaka)

Last updated 23-Sep-02

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