Melton Park 7mm O
This little layout is something of an experiment. It is operated by a DCC (Digital Command Control) system which gives the operator control of individual locomotives rather than the track itself. It also gives greatly improved slow running of engines and also sound effects if they are fitted. This is a system I have never used before and is quite complex to get to grips with.
The layout is set in the late 1960’s to early 1970’s in the Southern Region of British Railways operated by diesel locomotives painted in early BR Green and BR corporate blue. You will also see advertising posters and vehicles on the layout of the period.
It is a simple shunting layout known as an Inglenook with just three sidings and an “off stage” fiddle yard, the sole purpose of which is to shuffle wagons about!
Most of the scenery is scratch built from plastic sheet and foamboard however some items are built from laser cut kits and 3D printed models. The ground cover and greenery utilizes commercially available products.
All of the locomotives and rolling stock are off the shelf models fitted with a decoder and small capacitors known as “stay alives” these provide a power back-up if the continuity with the track is not very good. All the stock uses standard hook type couplings, however I am also experimenting with a magnetic automatic uncoupling system. This requires small micro magnets set into the track in the appropriate positions and a small steel “skate” fitted to the leg of the vehicle coupling. When a wagon is reversed over the magnet the hook rises allowing the loco. to draw forward and leave the wagon in its required position. Simples! When it works!
If you would like to know more about the layout please feel free to ask.
