Modelling idea - talking axle counter

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I am currently installing sensors on my layout. To help me test the sensors, I use a script called SensorLog.py that is included with the JMRI (Java Model Railroad Interface) package. Whenever a sensor is triggered, this script speaks out the name of the sensor that was triggered. This makes my life much easier since I don’t need to be near the computer when I walk around the layout testing sensors. I have posted a video of this script in action:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0rDqBob3Vpk

It occurred to me that this functionality could easily be adapted to count axles and speak out the count in a manner similar to defect detectors used on real railroads. I think it would be fun to have a synthesized voice reading out the number of axles. Has anyone tried this?

Anand

2

There was a commercially made talking defect detector the counted axles at one time as I saw it in action at two different layouts. Unfortunately, I don’t remember who made the thing.

3

I have a scanner in my train room that picks up CN and CP detectors so I get to hear the real thing. [:D]

4

Ever notice how a scanner adds favor to a operation session?

Back to topic…

If a detector could be triggered by a passing train complete with road name,mp/cp,actual wheel count and random defects it would sell…

5

Oh ya, you can’t beat it. That is until something happens and everyone is listening to see what’s going on instead of running their train, lol.