strangiatotheme

This is what I have so far. It's based off of the FMC Commander. Haven't done much in the way of detail since they're so small in-game:

I noticed that someone else was requesting more GSE, and it just so happens that I've been dinking around with a cargo loader model in Gmax for a while. Mind if I share some pics here?

Originally posted by: aldara6166 Concerning the interchanges...let me add one thought...to my knowledge, ALL such train systems also rely on computers...computer can calculate, in a fraction of a second, at what point 2 trains would be getting to the same interchange at the same time...with computerized systems, communications networks, etc., the trains can communicate with the main server and that server can indicate a need for one train to slow down slightly...basically, if you slow one train down by 1-2 km / hour, that train would get to the interchage AFTER the other...thus, avoiding a collission...quite a simple program actually, just a basic If-Else-Then type script...yeah, it is more complicated than that in real life but that is the basic premise anyway... quote> The computer actually controls the signalling systems to which the trains rely upon for authority of movement. It's a system called Centralized Traffic Control, usually run by a dispatcher. The photos in these links provide examples: Photo 1 Photo 2

Originally posted by: deKoven Originally posted by: coolotter88 these aren't exactly one way rails, they're two way but trains have to wait for other incoming trains to pass. it is used to save money (i suppose).quote> Hmmm, the decision goes much deeper than "to save money". Trackage was laid because of interest by those on the right of way. If the amount of interest wasn't great then single trackage was laid. If it could be shown to the RR companies that revenue was going to be very large then (and if population warrented) they might lay double trackage from the start. Elsewise, if the pop grew to the requisite figures then single might well be ripped and double trackage laid down. It's ALL money; if the money is there the RRs will come. Heh heh! quote> There are MANY other factors involved (see what the ATSF did in northern AZ), but you're right of course in that it all boils down to money. As for the single rail pieces, I'd really like to see a decent looking turnout.

I'm glad people are finally interested in prototype ops...I dug around through my negatives and HD and found some pics of sidings (and if anyone needs reference/info on any of this, I'm more that happy to explain).

I love the rail signal bridge on the STEX, but was wondering if someone could do a more modern rendition:

Originally posted by: Lord KronosBUt the lights could be there to aid cameras which would almost certainly stretch along any such network, so as to pinpoint obstructions before a high speed train gets to them. else the train won't have the time to slow down and stop before it hits the object. that way the cameras either feed to rail control, or to the train. of course there might just be sensors over the tracks, but then wildlife would interfere. but perhaps we're getting into to much realism?quote> Probably getting a bit too realistic, but whatever. Having, say, blue lights wouldn't be a bad idea (would look pretty neat actually) but if it's an issue of safety than floodlights would be a but more practical IMO.

Originally posted by: LP ...and I guess to let the drivers know if anything is in the track.quote> I think headlights take care of that.

This is progressing nicely! However, would it be possible to get track textures looking a little more traditional, say, like this? Ballast plays a big role in track stability, plus IMO dirt looks out of place....