004 Block & Spot detection demo

Introduction

The Arduino block / Spot detection demo plank.

This demo plank has 5 different sensor types, and is used to demonstrate block detection and spot detection on a model railway. Coding is the work of Steve Lomax and can be found in the Block Detection folder of this repository.

The plank uses an Arduino Mega and Geek Robot motor shield running DCC-EX for a command station. We also have an Arduino Nano which is running Steve's sketch.

Steve currently has two versions of code which is explained in two YouTube videos which can be found via these links :-

To be added after 26th June 2024.

DCC-EX Install EEPROM Update

To be able to add the sensors using JMRI I need to enable the EEPROM during the DCC-EX software install. I also wanted to add a few extra features to assist us moving forward. This short 2 minute video shows the steps required when using the automatic installer.

https://youtu.be/N-erNIl9ydo

Block Sensors Types.

1. A MERG (model electronic railway group) pocket money kit 7.
2. A drop diode detector circuit created by Steve.
3. A Current detector module.
4. A infrared detector.
5. A reed switch.

PMK7 Kit.

Details of this kit can be found in this short presentation video which was shown at the 26th June 2024 zoom meeting. https://youtu.be/dyPc-JG-Rmg

1. This is only available as a paid up member of MERG.
2. It takes it's power from the track and offers two forms of indicating triggering.

Pros & Cons

Diode Drop

This is a Vero board device Steve has made from a number of components

Pros & Cons

Current Transformer Module

This is a commercial available unit which is designed for higher amperages than used on model railway layouts.

Pros & Cons

Spot Detection Sensor Types

We are using two types of sensors for the demonstration plank.

Reflective Infrared

Magnetic Reed Switch

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