07-27-2011, 02:47 AM
Galen, sorry for my late reply.
You're right, it's a bit to heavy on the track side, that's why I'm now working on a simpler plan. That first draft was an experiment to see how much single level mainline I could squeeze into the area I have. I later realized that while there's enough room for a single operator, two or more operators would have a hard time following their train around the room. 'Tower' operators, as you call it, isn't exactly how I envision the layout being operated, I'd like to walk around and follow the train all the way.
I must admit that I haven't really planned how the dispatching will be, mostly because of my lack of knowledge on the subject. Operation will be mostly solo and based on a sequential timetable, but I'd like to have the opportunity to invite a couple of friends over from time to time. It would be nice if the layout could accommodate two or three operators; one working the yard, the other handling through trains, and the third switching the local. Or maybe there are other and better ways to assign the different tasks, I simply don't know.
Svein
ocalicreek Wrote:I am likewise reconsidering a section of my layout, it's function, capacity, etc. I am remembering that "less is more" allows me to include more scenery, which I like, and makes the layout look less like a parking lot full of track and more like a railroad in a nice setting. Just glancing at your plan my first thought was, 'track heavy'.
Your towns do seem to be spread out evenly, however walking alongside a train would be difficult, having to duck under and go from room to room. 'Tower' operators, as you alluded, would be one solution. But is that how you want to operate, or are you envisioning something else?
You're right, it's a bit to heavy on the track side, that's why I'm now working on a simpler plan. That first draft was an experiment to see how much single level mainline I could squeeze into the area I have. I later realized that while there's enough room for a single operator, two or more operators would have a hard time following their train around the room. 'Tower' operators, as you call it, isn't exactly how I envision the layout being operated, I'd like to walk around and follow the train all the way.
ocalicreek Wrote:As a regular operator on a railroad that travels through walls from room to room, I can say it is not ideal but it can work. Just don't put a passing track between walls, that is, don't make the turnouts on either end on either side of the wall. How are you planning on dispatching the railroad? TT&TO? Radios? This, perhaps more than anything, may influence how you place towns and operating areas. And finally, realistically, how many folks will regularly operate the layout?
I must admit that I haven't really planned how the dispatching will be, mostly because of my lack of knowledge on the subject. Operation will be mostly solo and based on a sequential timetable, but I'd like to have the opportunity to invite a couple of friends over from time to time. It would be nice if the layout could accommodate two or three operators; one working the yard, the other handling through trains, and the third switching the local. Or maybe there are other and better ways to assign the different tasks, I simply don't know.
Svein