The layout being built is Version 5. There have been four earlier versions. Each design was detailed to about the level needed to allow me to identify and trade-off each layout's unique features (and defficiencies). That means developing the main line, major operational trackage (yards, service facilities, etc.).
One of the really powerful features of today's Computer Aided Design programs is visualization. Experience has taught me that if you want nice scenery you had better consider it in the track planning stage. How the final land forms will fit around the trackage and how you will be able to view scenes is very important. Such things should be considered BEFORE track is committed to homosote.
I am using Third PlanIt (3Pl) track planning software and this allows me to create 3D renderings of each layout. In addition to knowing the track I want will fit, I "walk through" the aisles, experiment with scenic treatments, and generally test how each alternative design will "look and feel".
The 3Pl software will also allow simulation of train operations on a layout. As operation is not one of my high priorities (I mostly just like to watch trains) I have not exploited this feature. However, I am striving to design the layout according to well founded principles of model railroad opeartion. In other words I am allowing for the possibility that my interests could change over time.
Finally, designing several layouts allows me to communicate my ideas and thoughts. I solicit input from anyone with an opinion of any design or idea posted here. There is an e-mail address on the home page. You can't just click on it because it is an image, not a true link. You'll have to retype it, but that also keeps the SpamBots from harvesting it.
The designs in this section all differ from Version 5 in several ways. They are collected here as background to the thinking that went into developing the current Version 5.
Clicking on the layout images below will bring up an Adobe PDF image. These are "D size drawings so they will load slowly. But they show considerably more detail than the smaller JPEG images on the web page.
Staging Trackage: Staging tracks are level, with a railhead height of 42" above the datum (basement floor)
Visible Trackage: The visible tracks have a nominal railhead height of 54". The branch line rises to a maximum of 66".
Staging Trackage: Staging tracks are level, with a railhead height of 42" above the datum (basement floor)
Visible Trackage: The visible tracks rise from staging to a nominal railhead height of 54".
Staging Trackage: Staging tracks are level, with a railhead height of 42" above the datum (basement floor)
Visible Trackage: The visible tracks rise from staging to a nominal railhead height of 54".
Note that in this latest version all track is within 30" of an access aisle with the exception of the track against the wall at North Mountain. Minimum aisle width is 30" and usually more. The big question is whether the long aisle between Vaughn Summit and Narrow Passage should be left as a "viewing aisle", or sceniced as a "removable" river.