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Motorized Switch

This is a simple motorized switch machine I developed while working on my DCC project.

Features

• Can be used for left or right switches without building mirror image of model.
• Drive mechanism contained within 8x8 studs - suitable for base of switching tower or other building.
• Works with unmodified switches.
• Choice of drive mechanism based on available parts.
• Yellow switch lever remains visible to determine switch position at a glance.
• Secure attachment to switching track ensures reliable operation.
• Internal motion limiting prevents undue pressure being exerted on yellow switch lever.

Construction

Click on any of the images below for a detailed view.

Here's the motor drive unit:

Depending on what parts you have available, you can complete the drive train in either of these ways:

Here's the housing. The drive mechanism drops into place in the second to last step.

This is a look at the mechanism without the housing:

Notes

Though the design is rather utilitarian, it should be easy to rework into something a little more elegant. The drive mechanism fits in an 8x8 stud area which could form the base of a small switching tower.

Click for construction details of this switching house:

I'm not sure if my switches are the new "stiffer" variety or not, so please let me know how this works for you (especially if you know you have the new style switches). Thanks. markril@hotmail.com

LDraw files created with MLCad. Rendered using L3P and POV-Ray.

Large images hosted by Brickshelf. See all the images and LDraw files in this Brickshelf folder.

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copyright:	© 2003 Mark Riley, All Rights Reserved.
email:	markril@hotmail.com