How would i automate a reversing loop

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collectors
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How would i automate a reversing loop

#1

Post by collectors »

Hi, i am thinking about adding a reversing loop to the track & wanted to automate the turn out/points. I am using a DCC Concepts AD-S8sx decoder. I was thinking of using Block signalling "Train Detector with Relay BOD2-RLY" & tapping into the manual switch wires & have one just before the entrance to the loop to switch the points one way & the second 3/4 "or at least the train length around the loop to switch it back. Will this be ok, or is there any suggestions. I'm only using these train detecting relays as they will pulse only if wanted & not latch.
Tried to contact Block signalling but they have an anti spam on there email form that verbally gives you a word to write down to send the email. A far eastern call centre is easier to understand & had to give up.
Last edited by collectors on Fri Oct 26, 2018 1:05 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Steve M
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Re: How would i automate a reversing loop

#2

Post by Steve M »

You will need an auto reverse loop module. I use a PSX-AR but others are available.
"Not very stable, but incredibly versatile." ;)
Chris
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Re: How would i automate a reversing loop

#3

Post by Chris »

from the web

http://www.blocksignalling.co.uk/index. ... y-bod2-rly

this gives a bit more information, the key is that in the default mode the relay is energised while the sensor is covered and de energised when not

"The module has a small relay built-in. When a train crosses the sensor, the relay coil is energised and the relay common contact (labelled COM) moves from the normally-closed (NC) position to the normally open position NO.
After the train clears the sensor, the module de-energises the relay and the relay contact moves to the normally-open position. "

however this wouldn't give you a pulse, there is a program which can be selected

"Program 4 - Short Pulse Mode
This program energises the relay briefly when the sensor is covered by a train.
The relay pulse duration is in steps of 100ms, with a default value of 2 (=200ms).
The duration is set in multiples of 100ms steps using setting 5 (the PULSE ON TIME).
The train must clear the sensor, before the train can be detected again, and so generate another pulse.
Typically this program would be used to connect to a computer control system, to notify it that a train has arrived at a certain point on the layout"

and that might work, the only question is if it sees the gaps between each carriage and fires a pulse every time, which may upset the point decoder,
Chris
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Re: How would i automate a reversing loop

#4

Post by Chris »

having looked at some of the other products they do, then

http://www.blocksignalling.co.uk/index. ... ller-irp-1

would work well to control the points for you, with it set up for trailing points

it would mean you loose the DCC control of the point but if its set up as fully automatic and its just the reverse loop then there isn't really an issue
collectors
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Re: How would i automate a reversing loop

#5

Post by collectors »

Ah! we must of posted at the same time, it also looks like Block signalling has a new one out that will do the points as well.
http://www.blocksignalling.co.uk/index. ... for-dc-dcc
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Tinker
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Re: How would i automate a reversing loop

#6

Post by Tinker »

I use the Tam Valley Frog juicer, the 2 DCC wires in one end then 2 wire out the other end to the track....very simple and its electronic...Use IRJ's on both rails at both ends of the reverse loop

https://www.coastaldcc.co.uk/products/t ... -universal
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