GB2518058A - Accessories, systems and methods for model trains - Google Patents

Abstract

An accessory for a model railway which includes a plurality of elongate elements 12 able to be arranged in a series relative to a model train track 22 for attracting a model train 24 positioned on the track 22 to increase the normal force applied by the model train 24 to the track 22. In an embodiment of the invention the elongate elements are arranged beneath the track and are metallic to attract one or more magnets 18 that are mounted on the model train. The elongate elements may have opposite ends configured to receive the end of an adjacent elongate element; the first end may comprise a circular arc shaped protrusion and the other end may comprise a circular arc shaped recess.

Description

ACCESSORIES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MODEL TRAINS

PRIORITY

This application claims convention priority from Australian Provisional Application 2013903450 filed 9 September 2013, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to accessories, systems and methods for model trains.

BACKC ROUND To THE INVENTION Model railroading is a hobby in which adults and children collect and use model trains.

In order to provide a realistic model railroading experience, various power sources are often used to power a model railroad system.

The most common form of power source is electrical power supplied through two rails joined by railway ties. In a two rail system the rails provide a voltage across the rails such that current flows through the wheels of the train.

In order to allow for desirable contact between the wheels and the rails, the contact must be clean and free from grease, dirt and other undesirable substances. If the rails are not clean this can have an undesirable effect on the conductivity between the wheels and the rails, This can resuh in a concomitant loss of power.

In addition to this, unclean rails can result in a loss of friction and consequently a loss of power that is able to be transferred by the wheels to the rails. In the case where the train is travelling uphill, a loss of friction can result in an appreciable reduction in speed and a loss of performance.

It is against this background and the problems and difficulties associated therewith that the present invention has been developed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of preferred embodiments herein described there is provided an accessory for a model railway, the accessory comprising: a plurality of elongate elements; the elongate elements able to be arranged in a series relative to a model train track for attracting a model train positioned on the track to increase the normal force applied by the model train to the track.

Preferably the elongate elements are provided for being arranged beneath the track and are metallic to attract one or more magnets provided on the model train to increase the normal force applied by the model train to the track.

0 Preferably each elongate element has two opposite ends each configured to receive an end of adjacent elongate element.

Preferably the ends of the elements are able to be neatly fitted in a mating relationship without an overlap between adjacent elements.

Preferably each elongate element has two ends; each element having a first circular arc-shaped portion at a first one of the ends; and a second circular arc-shaped potion at the opposite one of the ends.

Preferably the first circular arc-shaped portion comprises an arc-shaped protrusion and the second circular arc-shaped portion comprises an arc-shaped recess.

Preferably the arc-shaped protrusion and arc-shaped recess have the same radius of curvature; and the arc-shaped protrusion defines an internal angular range of about 180 degrees.

Preferably the arc-shaped recess defines an internal angular range of less than 180 degrees.

Preferably the arc-shaped protrusion defines and an internal angular range and the arc- shaped recess defines an internal angular range; the angular range defined by the arc-shaped recess being less than the internal angular range defined by the arc-shaped protrusion.

Preferably the arc-shaped protrusion of each element spans the full width of the element.

Preferably the arc-shaped recess of each element spans less than the full width of the element.

Preferably the arc-shaped recess of each element is able to be positioned in a nested position with the arc shaped protrusion of another element so as to define an angle ranging from 0 to at least 20 degrees either side of the longitudinal directional of the other element.

Preferably the elements are relatively thin so as to be readily located underneath an 0 existing model train track.

Preferably the elongate elements able to be arranged in a series relative to a model train track; and a plurality of magnetic elements for being positioned above the elongate elements to increase the normal force of applied by the model train to the track.

Preferably the magnetic elements include a mount for being mounted to the bottom of S the model train along the centre line thereof Preferably the mount portion includes at least one fastening portion for receiving a screw type fastener.

According to a second aspect of preferred embodiments herein described there is provided amodel railway system including: a model train; a model track; a plurality of elongate elements; the elongate elements able to be arranged in series relative to the track; and one or more magnetic elements on the bottom of the model train for being attracted to the elongate elements to increase the normal force of applied by the model train to the track.

According to a third aspect of preferred embodiments herein described there is provided a method of providing a model railway, comprising: positioning a plurality of elongate elements in series relative to a model track; attaching one or more magnetic elements on the bottom of the model train; and placing the model train on the track above the series of elongate elements; and subsequently driving the model train along the track with the normal force applied by the model train to the track being assisted by the magnetic attraction between the magnetic elements and the elongate elements.

Preferably the elongate elements are arranged end to end within the series, each end of an elongate element mating with an adjacent end of an adjacent elongate element.

Preferably each end of the elongate elements either provide a circular arc-shaped projection or a circular arc-shaped recess.

According to a fourth aspect of preferred embodiments herein described there is provided a component for a model railway, the component for being positioned relative a model railway track, the component having two ends; a first circular arc-shaped 0 portion being provided at a first one of the ends; and a second circular arc-shaped potion being provided at the opposite one of the ends.

Preferred embodiments of the present invention are considered to provide a number of advantageous systems and methods including those that address: I) Providing traction when travelling along inclined tracks; 2) Preserving electrical contact between the wheels and rails; 3) Retrofitting of existing trains and tracks; and 4) Loss of friction due to contaminants such as grease and dirt.

It is to be recognised that other aspects, preferred forms and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the present specification including the detailed description, drawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

In order to facilitate a better understanding of the present invention, several preferred embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 provides a schematic perspective view of an accessory for a model train system, the accessory according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 provides a schematic perspective views of the system of Figure 1 the accessory being applied to a model train system; Figure 3 provides a schematic front cross-sectional view of the accessory shown in Figure 1, the accessory being applied to a model train system; Figure 4 provides a top view of a component of the accessory shown in Figures 1 to 3; Figure 5a provides a perspective view showing an arrangement of a number of the components of the accessory shown in Figure 4; Figure Sb provides a schematic side view showing the arrangement of Figure 5a in use; Figures 6 and 7 provides illustrative top views of a component of the accessory shown the preceding Figures; Figures 8 illustrates a different arrangement of a number of the components of the accessory shown in Figure 4; Figures 9a to 9c provide a top view, a perspective view, and a schematic side view of the arrangement of Figure 8.

Figures 10 to 12 show further views of the components of the accessory shown in Figure]; Figure 13 illustrates a further preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 14 illustrates a method according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 15 illustrates yet another embodiment; Figures] 6 to 18 illustrate variations according to a further preferred embodiments; and Figure 19 shows a carriage described in US Patent 2133530,

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

It is to be appreciated that each of the embodiments is specifically described and that the present invention is not to be construed as being limited to any specific feature of any one of the embodiments. Neither is the present invention to be construed as being limited to any feature of a number of the embodiments or variations described in relation to the embodiments.

Referring to Figure 1 there is shown an accessory 1 for a model railway. The accessory 1.Q is considered to assist with allowing model trains to travel along inclined tracks such as landscaped hills and layered winding routes. The accessory 10 is considered to advantageously provide for retrofitting of an existing model railway without having to purchase components other than those provided by the accessory.

The accessory IQ comprises a plurality of elongate elements 12 that are able to be stacked in a stack formation 14. The accessory.1.Q includes a plurality of mounts 16 providing 0 magnetic elements 18. The elongate elements J. are formed from metallic material to attract the maguetic elements 18.

Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the elongate elements 12 are able to be arranged in a series beneath a model train track 22, of the railway, for attracting a model train Z4 positioned on the track. This serves to increase the normal force applied by the model train 24 to the track 22.

Referring to Figure 3, the track includes a base 26 and two spaced apart rails 28. The model train 24 includes a number of wheels 30 that are positioned to sit on the rails 28. The mounts J provide the magnetic elements in a position above the elongate elements]-A resultant magnetic force serves to desirably aftract the model train 4 towards the elongate elements 12. This advantageously increases the normal force applied by the train 24 to the track 22. The track 22 is located above the elements 12. The elements 12 are located on a supporting stmcture (not shown).

The immediate separation between the magnetics element 1$ and the elements 4 is fixed.

In other embodiments the separation is able to be varied using different spacers.

In this embodiment the spacing 34 accommodates different track switches between the rails 28. The spacing 34 is about 2mm, Referring to Figure 4, each elongate element 12 has two opposite ends 36 respectively configured to receive an end of an adj acent elongate element 3$,. The ends 3. each provide a circular arc-shaped portion 40. The arc-shaped portions 40 of each element 12 have the same radius of curvature and are able to neatly fit in a mating r&ationship without an overlap. In this manner the elements J neatly nest together as shown in Figure 4.

A first circular arc-shaped portion 4 is provided in the form of an arc-shaped protrusion 44 at a first one of the ends 36. A second circular arc-shaped portion 4 is provided in the form of an arc-shaped recess 3$ at the opposite one of the ends 3..

Each elongate element 12 accordingly includes an arc-shaped protrusion 44 and an arc-shaped recess 48. As a result, the series 0 can be formed with the elements IZ being arranged end to end in a mating relationship.

The elements 12 provide a metallic run beneath the track 22 which is effectively continuous from the point of view of the magnetic attraction as the train 4 moves over the track 22.

This is illustrated in Figures 5a and Sb in which the series 20 of elements 12 is upwardly inclined to allow the model train to gain enough traction to readily overcome the opposing action 50 of gravity (that acts down an incline 52). The maximum traction is generally proportional to the normal force acting on the rail 28 in combination with the coefficient of friction.

Referring to Figure 6 the arc-shaped protrusion 44 of each element 12 defines an angular range 54 of 180 degrees within the arc and spans the full width.k of the element U. The arc-shaped recess 48 defines an angular range 58 within the arc of less than 180 degrees.

In this particular case the angle is about 130 degrees. The arc-shaped recess 48 spans less than the full width of the element 12 and is separated from the straight elongate sides 60 of the element 12 by a tab portions 62.

Figure 7 shows a rotation 64 ranging from 0 to 25 degrees either side of the longitudinal direction 66. In another preferred embodiment an angular range of at least +1-15 degrees is provided. In another preferred embodiment an angular range of at least +/-20 degrees is provided.

Referring to Figure 8, the elements 12 are advantageously able to be positioned in a series 68, in a mating relationship to form a curve. Generally the curvature of a model train track is be gradual. Advantageously a number of elements 12 can be readily used to provide a gradual bend.

Figure 9a to 9c illustrate how a meandering track can be provided by the elements.12 to allow a train to readily climb an incline 70.

The accessory.LQ accordingly includes a plurality of elongate elements.1.2 that are able to be arranged in a series 20 beneath a model train track 22. The accessory includes plurality of magnetic elements 18 for being positioned above the elongate elements I to increase the normal force of applied by the model train 20 to the track 22.

Referring to Figure 10, the magnetic elements 18 provide a sufficient attraction when a landscaping surface 72 (say green woven cloth) is disposed above the elements 12. The magnetic field passes through the cloth 72. The cloth 7 hides the elements 2 from view.

Referring to Figure II, the elements each include two holes 74 for fastening the elements 12 in position on a lower surface. The holes 74 are centrally aligned. Screws and/or tacks can be used to hold the elements.12 in place.

Referring to Figure 12, the mounts Jf are attached to the model train 4 using an adhesive on the rear surface.ic of the mount.

Figure 13 illustrates a mount 78 according to yet a further preferred embodiment of the present invention. The mount 78 includes two fastening portions 80. The fastening portions 80 are arranged along a central longitudinal axis 82 and allow for fasteners to extend therethrough. Each fastening portion $ includes an aperture 84. Fasteners are able to extend through the apertures.S4. into the body of the model train 4 to hold the mount 7$ in position.

Figure 14 illustrates a method 86 of providing a model railway 88. The method comprises positioning a plurality of elongate elements 90 in series beneath a model track 92.

Following this one or more magnetic elements attached to the bottom of the model train 9. The model train 9 is placed on the track 9 above the elements 90 and is driven the along the track 92. During the motion of the train 96 an increased normal force is applied to the track by the magnetic attraction between the magnetic elements 94 and the elongate elements 2G..

As before the elongate elements 90 are arranged end to end within in a nested series with each end of an elongate element 90 mating with an adjacent end of an adjacent elongate element 90.

A model railway system 88 is provided. The model railway system 88 includes a model train 96, a model track 92 and a plurality of elongate &ements 90, and anumber of magnetic elements 94. The magnetic elements 94 are positioned on the bottom on the model train 96 for being attracted to the elongate elements 90 to increase the normal force of applied by the model train 96 to the track 92. The elongate elements 90 and magnetic element 94 are centrally positioned relative to the track 9.

Modern model rail system often suffer from the problem of both low adhesion and poor power pickup. Such problems become much more evident with layouts having gradients.

Generally it is considered that with anything steeper than in I in 75 gradient the ability to pull rolling stock up-hill with a convention model is substantially reduced. The present embodiments are directed toward this problem.

Conventional rails of a track are generally made from nickel silver. Nckel silver is a "slippery" alloy and is known to oxidise, When copper oxides forms on the rails it acts as an insulator which reduces the electrical wheel-to-rail contact. By providing an increased normal force a conventional rail is able to provide increased traction and electrical contact is thought to be improved.

Figure 15 illustrates a further embodiment of the present invention. A metallic base is provided by a number of elements 98. A number of magnets lOG are provided. The magnets.IQQ. comprise super' magnets (made from Neodymium/Iron/Boron etc.) and are held in pockets (mounts) for retrofitting onto existing model trains.

Each magnets 100 is provided in a small plastic pocket. The pockets house the magnets lOP arid allow for ready installation inespective of skill level. The pockets allows for the magnets to be fixed under the train.

The elements 98 are formed as lengths of metal plates as shown. The length and profile advantageously allows a wide range of angles between the plates, and is designed to allow easy use with straight or curved track configurations. The plates 9$, are formed from relatively thin plate material, This allows the plates 9$ to be readily located underneath of an existing model train track.

Common model train scales include the HO scale in which 1 inch represents 87 inches and the rails are approximately 0.65 inches apart. Other scales include the Z scale in which 1 inch represents 220 inches and the N scale in which t inch represents 160 inches.

As would be apparent, the particular size of the elements 98 and the magnets 100 depends on the actual scale of the model system. For example 100mm plate could be used with 4mm scale (00/HO) Models. Magnets to suit the same scale could be 12.5 x 6.25 x 3mm.

In the present embodiment the pockets to hold magnets are vacuum formed for the aftermarket, In other embodiments the pockets are integrated within the baseplate of locomotives at the time of production, if required, The thickness of the plates (elements) is 0,5mm, With a 1 inch pack 50 or so pieces can be stacked in the pack of Figure 15, The embodiment provides: 50 pcs of magnetic steel powerplate'; 12 magnets; 30+ screws (black PAN head x type self-tapping screw 1.5mm x 3mm; 120+ nails / pins (these are small flat head BLACK 0.75mm x 5mm steel) and a 1 x 1mm hss drill. The magnets comprise nickel plated NEO / Nickel Iron Boron. The magnet size is 12,5mm x 6,25mm x 3.0mm, Each magnet recess in the pocket is 3mm deep.

The embodiments described are also considered to be advantageous for modern model locomotives which sometimes have a relatively uneven weight distribution. With the use of the elements and magnets as described, the effect of an uneven weight distributions can be reduced.

The embodiments allow for retrofitting the many model locomotives in use across the world Owners of model trains do not have to do complex work or even disassemble a locomotive.

By positioning metallic elements, a small metallic "base" can be easily laid beneath track work. The many small pieces nest together in a chain to create a continuous strip underneath the track. Locomotive pulling power (adhesion) and power pickup quality are areas of great frustration for modellers. The embodiment is directed towards these problems.

Figure 16 illustrates an embodiment where the side walls 102 are curved, Figure 17 illustrates an embodiment having alternating male and female sections 104 with two parallel tracks, Figures 18 and 19 illustrate another embodiment in which each mount.li forms part of a carriage between the wheels 30. Figure 19 shows the carriage of US2133530. With such a carriage the magnetic elements] could be built into the connecting bolster 7.

As would be apparent, various alterations and equivalent forms may be provided without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. This includes modifications within the scope of the appended claims along with all modifications, alternative constructions and equivalents.

There is no intention to limit the present invention to the specific embodiments shown in the drawings. The present invention is to be construed beneficially to the applicant and the invention given its full scope.

In the present specification, the presence of particular features does not preclude the existence of further features. The words comprising', including' and having' are to he construed in an inclusive rather than an exclusive sense.

It is to be recognised that any discussion in the present specification is intended to explain the context of the present invention, It is not to be taken as an admission that the material discussed formed part of the prior art base or relevant general knowledge in any particular country or region.