Here is a few photo's of my linear actuator which will eventually power the traverser plate for both Highbridge and Breadalbane. There is only a couple. I did a more comprehensive range of photo's but unfortunately they were on the YMRC forum. Anyway ...... for what its worth, here they are. First is a shot of the traverser base plate. next is of the machined threaded rod which acts as the drive shaft mechanism. next, shows the drive shaft connected through the base plate and tied in to a bush and locjing mechanism which are ready to be moved along the shaft into their final position prior to locking in place via a grub screw. The last one is an overall shot of the finished article ready to be incorporated into the traversers baseboard section. You can see the electric motor on the end which will power the module. The step controller and other wizardry is care of Paul-l of this parish but is a bit away from being done as yet due to the other various projects that we both have on the go at the moment. The actuator is an " Open Build " kit which comes with a set of very comprehensive and easy to follow instructions. So if anyone fancies a bash at one, I'd totally recommend it. There will be a separate project started on the building of the traverser which will include the electronics as well at some point in the future. I'd imagine it'll be nearer late summer. cheers for now. Toto
Which summer is this ? I feel a sharp dig in the ribbs The mark 1 driver board is built, just needs testing, its based on the traverser driver for Victoria roads traverser, and uses an Arduino Nano, with a Sparkfun Big Easy Driver to control the stepper motor. The system is fedd with a DCC track bus feed, via an optoisolator, to allow control via the DCC hand set or PC, just like Victoria Road. As Tom will be using the traverser on both High Bridge and Breadalbane, two different sets of accessory addresses will be used 101 to 104 & 201 to 204 for Breadalbane, and 301 to 304 for High Bridge. Paul
Thank you for the explanation Paul. not easy with a few beers in your system. I've seen Victoria Road in the flesh and had a go at operating the traverser. works a treat. cheers toto
The circuit was developed on a breadboard, modified from the rotary switch control originally on Victoria Road. The components are Red board - Sparkfun Big Easy Driver, Blue board - Arduino Nano, Black Chip - optoisolator. Once tested and working ok then the first prototype was built The copmponents for the build And assembled Paul
And so a gizzmo was born........... now, all we need is the woodwork. easy really. Only joking....... Cheers Toto. PS ..... There is a reprieve as I'm still considering the track work for Breadalbane. I've been rethinking the Shed end. May be back to the electronic drawing board. I have an idea or three. Anyrail may return from the archives
Piece of cake......I built one while I was having a sandwich today. Blimey Paul!!!......you`re a bit of a Whiz Kid with the electronics.......great stuff. !!!! http://www.click Gormo
