Build Progress - 11/23

Build Progress - 11/23
8235 runs around the local pickup freight while the Manildra Shunter sits in the siding with a cut of boxcars.

This months focus was on turnouts - 16 to be exact. To complete all the remaining track, I wanted to get all the turnouts done so I didn't have to switch back and forth constantly.

Fortunately I managed to get them all done, they are now sitting up in the shed waiting to be installed. I still need to trim ties and cut the frogs, but that'll be done as they are installed.

Am looking at going yard by yard now, completing all the droppers and electrical bus as I go. Servos for points will come a bit later.

The last 4 on the production line.

Like most months, I did a few other bits and pieces as well:

  • Upgrade JMRI to version 5. CATS3 now supports signal masts, and JMRI5 allows you to update them via MQTT. I've got a bit of a plan now for how signals will be programmed on the layout, using ESPHome to translate a signal mast aspect into the actual LEDs that need to be lit on each signal.

This required me to create a custom signal schema in JMRI, which maps what CATS publishes by default. Its used purely so I can select aspects in the table UI and then assign the appropriate MQTT prefix to each entry in the table. Should make programming a lot easier.

Speaking of signals, after seeing the Simple Signal System PCB signals on YouTube, it gave me an idea to try and make some of my own.

I wanted to match the prototype aspects as much as possible, which generally includes a main signal head, and optional extras such as route/shunt/call on/slow indicators. I started by mapping out each signal on the layout, referring to a drivers diagram to determine the aspects, and figuring out which ones I need to build. Using EasyEDA, I've mocked up a few:

You'll notice that these signals only have 3 inputs. They are using addressable WS2812B LEDS in 2mm and 1mm packages, which I am going to control with an ESP-based program called WLED. This allows me to use servo cables to hook them up to the ESP Mainboard, and some of the busier signals with 8-9 lamps only require 3 wires.

I've ordered two variants and am currently waiting for these to arrive in the mail, they'll hopefully go on the layout in December.

That's about it for now, I'll hopefully make some good progress this month in getting track down with the hope of completing all track by Christmas. Bit of an ambitious goal but now the turnouts are done its a real possibility!