US20210138356A1

US20210138356A1 - Led scene controller for a model train system and related methods

Info

Publication number: US20210138356A1
Application number: US17/092,646
Authority: US
Inventors: James Bevan LEWIS
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2019-11-08
Filing date: 2020-11-09
Publication date: 2021-05-13

Abstract

An LED scene controller for a model train system includes a printed circuit board (PCB) having a decoder and a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) ports mounted thereon, and a plurality of special effects components with each coupled to a respective LED port. The decoder includes a processor and a memory coupled to the processor, where the processor is coupled to the plurality of LED ports. The decoder is configured to receive a digital command control (DCC) signal comprising a plurality of configuration variables from a DCC hand controller and to store the plurality of configuration variables in the memory. The processor is configured to read the plurality of configuration variables to control the plurality of special effects components coupled to the plurality of LED ports. The decoder is configured to automatically switch to an animation mode when no DCC signal is detected.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application No. 62/932,918 filed Nov. 8, 2019, which is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to the field of model trains, and, more particularly, to a LED scene controller for a model train system and related methods.

BACKGROUND

Model train systems, also known as model railroads, have benefited from the electronics age due to miniaturization and digital signal processing. One of the most dramatic changes has been in the past 20 years when it became possible to individually control multiple train engines on a common track. In the past a DC current was run through the two (or three) rails of the track so that more voltage resulted in more speed. To reverse the direction of the train, the polarity of the plus and minus voltage was reversed. A drawback was that this resulted in all engines on the same track would behave as one.
To provide for separate control of each train a method was developed that uses a pulsed DC current applied to the track. The time between pulses can be varied by milliseconds so there became a long pulse and short pulse. The timing of these pulses could be measured by a microprocessor to distinguish 1's and 0's. These were assembled into 8-bit bytes which then could be deciphered as commands and addresses. A board is installed inside a train with a microprocessor (MCU) having a decoder and software that interprets these bytes and in turn controls the voltage to a particular train engine motor making it go or not.
Included in the signal of bytes is a unique address (1 byte or 2 bytes) that must match a particular train in order for that train to follow the instructions that follow. In addition to motor function, each decoder may respond to multiple function commands (on or off). A decoder with these two controllable properties is generally identified as a multi-function decoder.
Furthermore, the same DCC system can be used to communicate with other remote devices that have a decoder but are stationary. Using the same bus as the track rails, signals can be sent to devices that control track switches (typically). The decoder uses the same addressing scheme so that a single address can be recognized and responded to. Since the track switch only needs to be thrown or closed (left or right) an accessory decoder decodes the address and then a single instruction (on/off, left, right) whereas the multifunction decoder used in the engine will respond to speed and up to 29 Function commands.
Notwithstanding advances in model train systems, there is a need in the art for an improved device to program and control effects of the miniature scenery that is installed around the railroad tracks such as lighting in buildings.

SUMMARY

An LED scene controller for a model train system is disclosed. The LED scene controller includes a printed circuit board (PCB) having a decoder and a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) ports mounted thereon, and a plurality of LEDs with each LED coupled to a respective LED port of the plurality of LED ports. The decoder includes a processor and a memory coupled to the processor, where the processor is coupled to the plurality of LED ports. In addition, the decoder is configured to receive a digital command control (DCC) signal comprising a plurality of configuration variables and to store the plurality of configuration variables in the memory.
The processor is also configured to read the plurality of configuration variables stored in the memory to control the plurality of LEDs coupled to the plurality of LED ports. The memory may include non-volatile memory that is configured to store software for operating the decoder and store the plurality of configuration variables. The decoder may also include a special effects component coupled to one of the plurality of LED ports and the processor configured to control the special effects component, and a switching power circuit configured to regulate power to the processor and the plurality of LEDs and special effects component.
The decoder is assigned a unique address by the DCC controller in order to program the decoder to receive and store only the plurality of configuration variables corresponding to the unique address. A first configuration value of the plurality of configuration variables may correspond to a brightness of the LED coupled to the respective LED port. In addition, the decoder is configured to automatically switch to an animation mode when no DCC signal is detected.
The DCC hand controller may comprise a keypad that is configured to generate the DCC signal comprising the plurality of configurable variables to control the plurality of LEDs. The switching power circuit may be configured to receive power from the model train track or an auxiliary power source.
In another particular aspect, an LED scene controller for a model train system is disclosed and includes a digital command control (DCC) hand controller, a model building, and a decoder having a processor coupled to a memory and a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) ports. The decoder is placed within the model building and is configured to receive a digital command control (DCC) signal comprising a plurality of configuration variables from the DCC hand controller and to store the plurality of configuration variables in the memory. The decoder includes a plurality of special effects components with each special effects component coupled to a respective LED port of the plurality of LED ports. The processor is configured to read the plurality of configuration variables stored in the memory to control the plurality of special effects components coupled to the respective LED port. In addition, the decoder includes a plurality of resistors coupled to the plurality of LED ports and is configured to adjust a voltage per LED port. The decoder also includes a switching power circuit that is configured to regulate power to the processor and the plurality of special effects components. The decoder is assigned a unique address by the DCC controller in order to program the decoder to receive and store only the plurality of configuration variables corresponding to the unique address. In addition, at least one of the special effects components comprises an LED, and a first configuration value of the plurality of configuration variables corresponds to a brightness of the LED coupled to the respective LED port.
In another particular aspect, a method to control an LED scene controller for a model train system is disclosed. The LED scene controller includes a printed circuit board (PCB) having a decoder and a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) ports mounted thereon. The decoder includes a processor and a memory coupled to the processor, and the processor is coupled to the plurality of LED ports. The method includes receiving a digital command control (DCC) signal comprising a plurality of configuration variables from a DCC hand controller, and storing the plurality of configuration variables in the memory. The method also includes switching to an animation mode when no DCC signal is detected. In addition, the method includes assigning a unique address to the decoder by the DCC controller in order to program the decoder to receive and store only the plurality of configuration variables corresponding to the unique address.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a building having an LED scene controller operating the lighting with the facade removed in which various aspects of the disclosure may be implemented;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the building of FIG. 1 with the facade installed;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the LED scene controller having a plurality of two pin outlets configured to individually control LEDs and other components;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another aspect of the LED scene controller having screw terminal adapters;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another aspect of the LED scene controller having terminal pins;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a keypad to program and configure the LED scene controller;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a case for the keypad and LED scene controller;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the LED scene controller;

FIG. 9 is a diagram of a DCC controller;

FIG. 10 is a chart of configuration variables that may be programmed to the LED scene controller;

FIG. 11 is an algorithm that may be executed by the LED scene controller to program the configuration variables;

FIG. 12 is an algorithm that may be executed by the LED scene controller for an animation routine;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view a fiber lighting manifold as part of the LED scene controller and fiber connector pins; and

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a fiber lighting dongle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.
There is currently a standardized system of digital command control (“DCC”) for model train systems. Accordingly, it is common in the industry to read a signal from the railroad track and process it into usable code to drive a model railroad engine.
During the past ten years with the further miniaturization of component hardware it became more viable to include sound within the core functions of the decoders. In addition, software has also been developed to connect to the DCC system in order to monitor and control the actions of the trains on the layout from the computer.
One aspect of the invention disclosed herein for a new LED scene controller is directed to a new and improved system that allows configuration of various features without programming skills or a computer and specialty software. For example, the LED scene controller has the ability to configure more than 5 million possible combinations of special effects or animations (sound and motion). For one audience the LED scene controller will stand alone and be controlled and configured with non-DCC controls including via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc. For another audience the LED scene controller can be controlled and configured by connecting to a DCC system. Both are possible and not mutually exclusive.
Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, the LED scene controller has been installed in a model building 102. The LED scene controller is coupled to a plurality of LEDs 112 that are placed strategically in the model building 102 as can be seen when the façade is removed as in FIG. 1. On the bottom floor of the model building 102, a scene 106, 108 is staged on each side of the doorway to the model building.
The LED scene controller makes it easier to add LED lighting and other special effect components (i.e., animation) to miniature scenery or “scenes” as in FIG. 2 that are typical in model railroads than the prior controllers. However, the LED scene controller described herein is not limited in use to model railroading. Additional implementations can be any miniature scene, doll houses and even single function objects.
In a particular aspect, an implementation of the LED scene controller is inside N scale (1:160 scale) or HO (1:87 scale) buildings. The board of the LED scene controller is thin and small and allows the application to avoid running many wires from the scale building to a power source. All the wires (but two for power and control) remain contained inside the small building, for example.
Another challenge for hobbyists is determining what voltage/size LEDs to use and electrically understanding what value resistor is needed and the right power supply as LEDs do require a resistor between the power source. The LED scene controller solves this problem by including resistors on the LED scene controller board and allowing the adjustment of voltage per pin via the software stored in the LED scene controller. The LED scene controller is configured to operate from 12 to 25 Volt AC or DC, making it flexible.
Referring now to FIGS. 3-5, the LED scene controllers described herein are exemplary and have similar components. Accordingly, the LED scene controller 110 a in FIG. 3 has a plurality of two pin outlets configured to individually control special effects components such as LEDs and other components. The LED scene controller 110 b in FIG. 4 has screw terminal adapters, and the LED scene controller 110 c in FIG. 5 has terminal pins. Although the LED scene controllers 110 a-c have different configuration of the pins/ports, they function similarly. Thus, references to the LED scene controller 110 a used in the description hereinafter will also apply to the LED scene controllers 110 b and 110 c as well.
The LED scene controller 110 a includes a “DCC IN” pins 120 that are used to connect to the model train track or to a DCC controller. In addition, the LED scene controller 110 includes a PCB 114 a where the components are mounted thereon such as a switching power supply 122 a, a decoder 115 a, capacitors 124 and resistors 126.
With respect to special lighting effects, there are single board solutions for some of the effects. In those cases the effects are fixed. In contrast, the LED scene controller 110 a allows for the selection and change of any of the effects on any pin 112 a.
There are some effects that require multiple LEDs, for example two alternating blinking lights. Another is the “race” effect used to simulate airport runway approach lights. Another is a marquee effect. All of these are possible using the LED scene controller.
Despite the different “form factors” available for the LED scene controller 110 a, they use the same basic electronic parts and design and perform substantially identical with respect to the effects and configuration and control via a DCC signal.
The LED scene controller 110 a may be configured for the addition and synchronization of animation or unique sounds, for example, a light coming on in a saloon could trigger the noise of the saloon via an audio output. Another example that uses light, sound, and motion is a crossing gate and detection where the train on the track crosses a sensor that activates the gate to lower, lights to flash and bell to sound. The gate is controlled by a motorized actuator. Other sensors and/or scripting could cause a train announcement to be played once the train arrives at a station.
Multiple remote speakers could also be possible. Each pin 112 a triggers a different background sound at a different location. The sounds may be downloaded and installed on a SD card via a web-based software and a PC. A library of sounds is available from 1000's of sources to use with the LED scene controller 110 a or the user can record their own. USB adapters for SD cards already exist. The SD card with the stored sounds may be installed (slid into a slot) in the LED scene controller 110 a and where the LED scene controller 110 a is programmed to up to 16 separate sounds, one per channel to synchronized with the LEDs lights. For example, thunder and lightning can be programmed where multiple sound and lighting channels can be used to produce an exciting (multi-channel) visual and aural effect. Current solutions have one light and one soundtrack.
Continued miniaturization of electronics will likely drive the ability for more functionality. In addition, both Bluetooth and WIFI connections from a master console may be wirelessly connected to one or many LED scene controllers 110 a scattered around a layout. This would allow the LED scene controller 110 a to be untethered from DCC and from the base unit, which might not be connected to DCC, but would provide for computer control of the remote lighting.
The existing DCC systems have a number of slots where a slot is a memory space reserved in the DCC control system for each train engine. Some DCC systems have a few as 20 some as much as 500. Each LED scene controller 110 a may use a slot if it is set as a multi-function decoder, otherwise as a switch there are a possibility of 2044 addresses and there is not a slot problem. Also, this is usually not a problem on small to medium layouts but on a larger setup this could be an issue.
However, the LED scene controllers 110 a can be configured to the same address thus using only one slot. But with a bigger scenes and the desire to connect more controllable aspects, an alternative method for connecting and controlling the LED scene controller 110 is needed. A communication protocol such as one way broadcasting via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to the LED scene controllers 110 connected allow this expansion.
Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, a keypad to program the LED scene controller 110 a is depicted. The keypad 130 is relatively small and easy to use. The keypad 130, as shown in FIG. 6, may be configured for the user to select, configure and control core LED scene controller functionality. Often times while operating the model train engines, it may be difficult for the engineer to dial in the correct LED port/effect. The keypad 130 has been installed within a housing 140 as shown in FIG. 7.
The keypad 130 is intuitive to use for this purpose. The keypad 130 may include a first display 130 a and a second display 130 b. The user can use up buttons 132 a, 132 b and down buttons 134 a, 134 b in order to increase or decrease the value shown on the respective display 130 a, 130 b. Function keys 136 a, 136 b and 134 c can be used to select the desired configuration values and addresses as necessary.
The keypad 130 can connect to the LED scene controller 130 using receptacles 138 a, 138 b and/or 142. The keypad 130 is configured to program the LED scene controllers 110 to animate in sequence so that with the push a button, the saloon light will come on, for example, and/or other lighting and motion items nearby as well and the sound of the saloon starts. Multiple preconfigured “scenes” can be programmed so that a detector, magnet, IR (motion) or single button starts that animation.
In yet another aspect of the invention, a switch multiplexer may be included that would allow for the installation of switches or push buttons in remote locations whereby pushing the switch activates a pre-configured collection of LED scene controller ports/behaviors. Using the saloon example, a remote switch on a wall/fence protecting a scene or layout would allow a visitor to activate the scene without getting too close or disrupting any other activity on the scene or layout. In addition, a LCD-type display could be implemented to include more graphic indications and customizable screens for controlling the model train system.
Further, the function keys of a single decoder address may be used to address as many as 500 separate LED scene controllers via the master console. This provides for a simple pushbutton method to control the entire range of functionality via a DCC system or via a DCC support software application.
The LED scene controller 110 may have multiple special effects built into one unit. For example, this may include individual port LED brightness (voltage) setting, flicker, adjustable blink, rotating beacon, fade on and off, random, chase, race, step, alternating flashing, television simulation, mimic, arc welding, lightning, and switch relay. In addition, the level of brightness for each pin (also referred to interchangeably herein as “port”) LED can be set. The effect can be adjusted and selected for each pin individually via the keypad 130. Moreover, all the functionality may be configured and controlled via an existing DCC system hand controller 150 as shown in FIG. 9, the keypad 130, or a computer via a USB.
Referring now to FIG. 8, each of the LED scene controllers includes an on board DCC decoder. This allows each LED scene controller to have its own address, which means that each LED (or other animation component) connected to each LED scene controller can be controlled separately and each LED scene controller can be controlled separately.
The LED scene controller may be powered by DCC track power or via a multitude of AC and DC power supplies from 12-25V AC/DC. A mechanical switch allows the user to choose between configurations: 1) DCC powered only, 2) AUX power for the LEDs and DCC signal only in (avoids using DCC power), or 3) AUX power only; board switches to animation mode after a configurable time delay.
Different voltage LEDs can be used on any port with each port having a different setting. The LED scene controller may include two different sockets for power: 1) JST sockets (Japan Standard Terminal), and 2) 1.3 mm barrel plug.
The LED scene controller does not require soldering, wiring or programming skills to configure. Therefore, the case surrounding the electronics, for non-technical people, provides a superior experience and makes them feel the product is easy to use. The case for the LED scene controller may include a mounting bracket for positioning anywhere on the layout and easy removal.
The LED scene controller includes an LED driver and a MCU with at least 16 mHz clock to obtain real-time performance. The button design/use provides easy learning in less than one minute. In addition, the case and keypad are also removable and the internal main board can be purchased, installed and operated separately from the case and keypad. The LED scene controller is configured to operate fully without the keypad.
With the keypad installed, each LED port can be selected and configured with any one of 100 pre-set behaviors (special effects). For example, each LED port brightness can be set and saved using the keypad. The LED scene controller can switch between animation mode (active) and configuration mode with the push of a single button on the keypad. As explained above, the LED scene controller can be programmed with the keypad (or a computer via USB), and then the keypad can be disconnected.
The LED scene controller comprises a DCC detect logic so that it automatically goes into animation mode if no DCC signal is detected. When the DCC signal is turned on or connected, the LED scene controller is configured to act upon any further DCC instructions via the function keys.
The LED scene controller may be relatively small, for example, 50 mm×30 mm×1.0 mm, so that it can be placed inside very small enclosures. By placing the LED scene controller inside a building in order to individually control a “room by room” LED or other component, only two wires are needed from the building to a DCC power source. This greatly reduces the wiring burden, which can be significant.
The LED scene controller may include a two wire pause capability via a connection terminal on the main board. This allows a simple SPST switch (or momentary) to be connected to pause and turn off all the LED scene controller functions. When deactivated, the LED scene controller resumes animation mode.
The LED scene controller board may be configured for various connection configurations (JST plugs, screw terminals solder pads and solder holes, pins) to accommodate a multitude of installation requirements. Adapter test and connection boards can also be used to test and configure the board before it is installed in its final destination.
In a particular aspect, the system uses LED “chips”. The LED chips are made specifically for the system. These are surface mounted LEDs that would melt if soldered. The LED chips are attached to a 9 mm×9 mm or smaller PCB with two solder pads. The LED chips are relatively inexpensive but cannot be hand soldered. The flat PCB surface provides an easy way to attach them to a structure/surface to be lit. The LED chips are reliable and inexpensive so that more LEDs can be used per dollar.
In addition, the LED scene controller comprises an onboard switching power circuit. The LED scene controller may be configured to activate either 5V DC or 12V DC mechanical relays off the LED ports. This allows for the control of objects, lights, and motors that need to be electrically isolated or require more amperage than the LED scene controller board supports.
The LED scene controller may include a 6-hole pin connection or USB connector that allows for in-shop software updates. Accordingly, the LED scene controller can be easily updated with the latest version and functionality. Virtually any LED from 3 v to 12 v can be used with the system and the DCC decoders of the LED scene controller comply with the NMRA DCC Standards.
Referring now to FIG. 8, a block diagram of the system 100 is illustrated. The system 100 includes the LED scene controller 110 a having a decoder 115 a that comprises a memory 117 and a processor 118. The memory 117 stores firmware that contains instructions for the processor 118 to execute. The memory 117 also stores the configuration variables (CV) that correlate to how the LEDs 112 (and other special effect components) are programmed to function. The keypad controller 130 may be coupled to the LED scene controller 110 to program the CVs as explained above.
A DCC hand controller 150 can also be used to program the CVs for the LED scene controller 110 a via a DCC signal that is transmitted over the model train track 104 or directly to the LED scene controller 110. A capacitor 124 may be included with the LED scene controller 110 a in order to rectify any power interruptions and to eliminate any flicker in the operation of the LEDs 112.
Referring now to FIG. 9, the LED scene controller 110 may be configured via the DCC hand controller 150 as explained above using configuration variables. The hand controller 150 includes a display 152, a keypad 154 for entering values, a speed control 156 and function keys 158.
A chart of configuration variables (CV) that may be programmed to the LED light board is shown in FIG. 10 and generally designated 200. The first column 202 describes the behavior of the LED, such as “LED light level.” Moving to the next column to the right 204, a “CV Range” is provided to correlate with a port number 208 of the LED scene controller 110. A value that may be assigned for the behavior of the LED is provided in column 206, for example 0-99. The unique address of the desired LED scene controller to be programmed must be set in order for the decoder of the desired LED scene controller 110 to read the DCC signal and store the CV values being transmitted. In addition, in table 210, values that correlate to a particular type of animation are provided. For example, a value of 3 for the “Animation Mode” would program the LED coupled to a particular port to “blink.”
Another feature is a collection of 100 preset Animations. Rather than having to enter discrete values for blink time on or off, the QuickSet table allows complex configuration for new users.
Algorithms that perform the functions are disclosed in FIGS. 11 and 12. For example, FIG. 11 provides algorithm for programming configuration values and FIG. 12 discloses an animation routing.
Referring now to FIGS. 13 and 14, the LED scene controller 110 can also be used with fiber optical fiber cable lighting 170 (FIBER1, FIBER2 . . . FIBERn). Instead of plugging in an LED via a plug and wire, individual fiber cables 170 can be inserted into a fiber lighting manifold 172 as part of the LED scene controller 110 a. The LEDs are permanently located inside the controller 110 a and the manifold 172 is aligned with the end of the fiber cable 170 with the LED. This allows individual fiber cables to have the same animation behaviors as described above.
Specially designed fiber connector pins 174 allow the insertion of different cable sizes from 0.25 mm to 2 mm. The manifold 172 is tapered and having receptacles 178 to cause the pin 174 to compress the inserted fiber cable and to hold the cable in place in the manifold 172. It is a friction fit and the pin 174 can easily be removed but will not fall out on its own.
A fiber lighting dongle 175 is also disclosed. An LED 177 is inserted into a plastic casing ˜3 mm round. The LED 177 is plugged into a port/pin connected to the decoder 115 a. Using one of the fiber lighting pins, a fiber cable is connected to the dongle 175. This allows lighting and controlling a single fiber light. Optical fiber cable is useful for certain lighting conditions and difficult to reach or place even with the smallest LED.
The controller may also be configured as an NMRA Accessory model. The decoder 115 a can be switched by the user to operate as a multifunction decoder or an accessory decoder. The LED scene controller 110 a can react to up to sixteen unique switch addresses when in the accessory mode. Any port can be assigned to a single switch (accessory) address or multiple addresses and ports. In addition, multiple controllers can respond to the same address or overlapping banks of address.
In another particular aspect, the LED scene controller 110 includes a USB port 180 for programming the animations via computer. The addition of computer connected programming allows for expanding of functionality to scripting. Scripting allows a sequence of instructions to activate any of the animations on any port for any length of time. Multiple scripts can be run simultaneously on a controller. Each unit may have a unit serial number that is automatically generated. The LED scene controller 110 a is configured to be connected to the computer via USB cable. Software on the computer is configured to control a plurality of aspects of the LED scene controller 110 a.
A specialty “switch” adapter 190 can be plugged into an outlet of the LED scene controller 110 a such that an “ON” signal activates a solid-state switch that in turn could activate other devices. There is also MODE setting on the controller 110 a called “relay”. When a port is set to this setting it will send 5V+ to the switch as prescribed by the timing set on the LED scene controller 110 a.
The LED scene controller 110 a may also be configured to allow the playback of sound files synchronized with animation. Sound files can be stored in memory on the controller 110 a. The LED scene controller 110 a may be configured so that the user can change or add sounds from their computer to the controller 110 a. The LED scene controller 110 may be configured to be controlled independently from the DCC, detection circuits or via the script of a controller. The LED scene controller 110 a can be configured only for sound, or the controller 110 a can be configured for both controlling sounds and lighting and all can be configured using DCC.
Detection circuits 195 are relatively small and can slide under the model track 104 and can be either magnetically activated or IR. In operation, a passing train triggers the detector circuit 195 that activates a gate crossing, turns on a fiber optic crossing sign, turns the LED light at the station on, plays multiple sounds like the ding-ding of the crossing bell, train horn and stations sounds. Accordingly, various combinations of lighting, detection, motion, animation, control and sound is combined into a single controller.
A specialty power mounting base 185 may include magnets 187 to convey low voltage power to the controller. The power supply may be connected to the base instead of plugged into the LED scene controller 110 a. In addition, a specialty POWER and LED connection mounting unit is configured so that the controller can be removed without unplugging. Magnets may connect power to each LED output. Thus, the LED scene controller 110 a can be “popped” off, brought to the desk for programming and then snapped back at the layout location.
Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to the mind of one skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is understood that the invention is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

That which is claimed is:

1. An LED scene controller for a model train system comprising:

a printed circuit board (PCB) having a decoder and a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) ports mounted thereon; and

a plurality of LEDs with each LED coupled to a respective LED port of the plurality of LED ports;

the decoder comprising,

a processor and a memory coupled to the processor, the processor coupled to the plurality of LED ports;

wherein the decoder is configured to receive a digital command control (DCC) signal comprising a plurality of configuration variables and to store the plurality of configuration variables in the memory.

2. The LED scene controller of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to read the plurality of configuration variables stored in the memory to control the plurality of LEDs coupled to the plurality of LED ports.

3. The LED scene controller of claim 2, wherein the memory comprises non-volatile memory configured to store software for operating the decoder and to store the plurality of configuration variables.

4. The LED scene controller of claim 3, further comprising a special effects component coupled to one of the plurality of LED ports and the processor configured to control the special effects component.

5. The LED scene controller of claim 3, the decoder further comprising a switching power circuit configured to regulate power to the processor and the plurality of LEDs.

6. The LED scene controller of claim 3, wherein the decoder is assigned a unique address by the DCC controller in order to program the decoder to receive and store only the plurality of configuration variables corresponding to the unique address.

7. The LED scene controller of claim 3, wherein a first configuration value of the plurality of configuration variables corresponds to a brightness of the LED coupled to the respective LED port.

8. The LED scene controller of claim 6, wherein the decoder is configured to automatically switch to an animation mode when no DCC signal is detected.

9. The LED scene controller of claim 8, further comprising a keypad configured to generate a DCC signal comprising the plurality of configurable variables to control the plurality of LEDs.

10. The LED scene controller of claim 5, wherein the switching power circuit is configured to receive power from the model train track or an auxiliary power source.

11. An LED scene controller for a model train system comprising:

a digital command control (DCC) hand controller;

a model building; and

a decoder having a processor coupled to a memory and a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) ports, the decoder placed within the model building and configured to receive a digital command control (DCC) signal comprising a plurality of configuration variables from the DCC hand controller and to store the plurality of configuration variables in the memory.

12. The LED scene controller of claim 11, further comprising a plurality of special effects components with each special effect component coupled to a respective LED port of the plurality of LED ports.

13. The LED scene controller of claim 12, wherein the processor is configured to read the plurality of configuration variables stored in the memory to control the plurality of special effects components coupled to the plurality of LED ports.

14. The LED scene controller of claim 13, further comprising a plurality of resistors coupled to the plurality of LED ports and configured to adjust a voltage per LED port.

15. The LED scene controller of claim 14, the decoder further comprising a switching power circuit configured to regulate power to the processor and the plurality of special effects components.

16. The LED scene controller of claim 15, wherein the decoder is assigned a unique address by the DCC controller in order to program the decoder to receive and store only the plurality of configuration variables corresponding to the unique address.

17. The LED scene controller of claim 13, wherein at least one of the special effects components comprises an LED, and a first configuration value of the plurality of configuration variables corresponds to a brightness of the LED coupled to the respective LED port.

18. A method to control an LED scene controller for a model train system, the LED scene controller comprising a printed circuit board (PCB) and having a decoder and a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) ports mounted thereon coupled to a plurality of LEDs, the decoder comprising a processor and a memory coupled to the processor, the processor is coupled to the plurality of LED ports, the method comprising:

receiving a digital command control (DCC) signal comprising a plurality of configuration variables; and

storing the plurality of configuration variables in the memory.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising switching to an animation mode when no DCC signal is detected.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising assigning a unique address to the decoder by the DCC controller in order to program the decoder to receive and store only the plurality of configuration variables corresponding to the unique address.