Block controller
US7350754B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 27, 2005 |
| Grant date | Apr 1, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 7, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA63H19/34
- WIPO fieldFurniture, games
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An intelligent block controller for a model train is connected to receive detect signals from adjacent blocks of model railway track assemblies indicating that a model train is present on a respective block track assemblies. The controller provides one or more control outputs to automatically and independently control power to selected blocks of track, to operate one or more switches, or to operate other accessories. The detect signal may be provided by grounding an isolated portion of a rail to a ground rail or other voltage reference. The controller may also be configured to accept user input to select a preferred operating mode, or to deactivate automatic control.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.