Is there a book or website that shows detailed instructions on creating animated figures/structures for the train layout. I’m looking to make doors open, people figures to move back and forth, turn windmills, etc. I’ve looked extensively and can’t find anything to help me build these from scratch using motors, sprockets, belts or whatever.
By absolute coincidence, I have my copy of Realistic Animation, Lighting and Sound on my worktop right next to my keyboard. It’s a compilation of articles that appeared in MR over the years, and specifically includes techniques for animating a windmill (of the farm pump variety, not a multi-gigawatt three bladed monster.)
Since it’s published by Kalmbach, the first place to look is at the shop link, top right of this forum page.
Chuck (Modeling Central Japan in September, 1964 - with a projected operating coal tipple)
Thanks! I’m on it.
Thanks, I’m on it!
Not on it anymore. I got no hits in Shop so it must be out of print. I went online and the used books go anywhere from $55 to over $300! Can’t afford that.
Realistic Animation, Lighting & Sound : 21 Projects for Your Model Railroad
That is a good start. Add it to your eBay search and set it to email you when one is posted. Be patient! That’s how I picked up mine. much cheaper than Amazons +$50.
A Beginner’s Guide To CREATIVE EFFECTS For Your Model Railroad
Not as well known it seems, but another excellent book. You could search eBay as well, but there are links to places you could try ordering it from on their website.
http://www.modelrrcreativefx.com/modelrrcreativefx/index.html
I have both and wouldn’t ever think of selling them! [oX)]
Other online pieces of interest:
http://whiteriverandnorthern.net/animation.htm
http://www.miniatur-wunderland.com/
http://www.youtube.com/ of course!
Look for Wolfgang Dudler on Model Railroad Hobbiest website. He has several animations