I started to build a small control panel this evening. It was going to be the standard masked and painted masonite type I’ve done in the past. My wife had been to the Office Depot earlier today to have some maps and well logs laminated for me and I got to thinking. Since I only need a very small panel about 10" x 6” why not draw the diagram on the computer in color with the AT&SF logo and all, pint it out, have it laminated, back it with masionite, put a little edge around it and presto a custom looking control panel for real cheap and no waiting for paint to dry. If it ever gets messed up I can just print up another and change it out. Probably someone has already done something like this somewhere and it’s old news. But it’s a new idea to me so I thought I’d share it. Before I run out and do this tomorrow how have you guys that still use them made your control panels? Mines for turnout control only not block control.
I’ve been modeling almost all my life but I sure have picked up a lot of good information form others since getting on line a few years ago. I really enjoy reading about modeling ideas or techniques on this forum and others a lot. Interesting WMDs seem to pop up frequently here so keep them coming. Thanks, Bruce
i haven’t heard of the lamination method before , but there’s an article in the december 2004 MR (page 90) about using a color printer to make a control panel graphic . the author used an acrylic sheet over the printout and drilled holes for switches etc. them mounted the panel in a nice wooden frame to attach to the layout . your version is even easier , nice work !
now that it some Idea Bruce Why not take some photos of your process and share them kind of like a how to clinic I would like to at lease see your end result. Keep us posted.
Good idea. it saves a step and quite a bit of fabrication work over lucite or other plexi cover for the PC artwork.
Most of the lamination failures I’ve seen begin at the edges, so if your structural frame sort of “mats” the diagram, edge lamination would be delayed and maybe avoided.
Also, if you’re willing to use a lot of ink, you can backlight your diagram, less ink if you backlight the background. Useful for night ops. Backlighting adds the fabrication time back into the project though, as your structural support behind the artwork then needs to be translucent or transparent.
Lots of options, and since you’re going to spend the most time looking at it and using it, you get to decide which ones to use.