Automatic train decoupler

[Hanso]

Hi all

For our project "Fully automated train layout" (more information can be found here: https://siouxnetontrack.wordpress.com/), I have designed an automatic train decoupler.

A video of the first test run can be seen here:

.

For our Lego World 2015 layout, we have adapted the decoupler (expecially more speed) but the basics remain the same:

• The wagon(s) behind the train are pushed away to overcome the magnetic force of the coupler
  
• Loco moves forward (this is needed otherwise the magnetic force pulls back the wagon if it is not too heavy like the one in the picture above)
  

Because our train layout is fully automated, Mindstorms is used for the controls. But the same principle can of course be made using a PF motor and PF receiver.

Enjoy.

/Hans

Edited May 20, 2015 by Hanso

[Hanso]

Yesterday, I build a version with a PF motor. The result is shown in the LDD picture below.

/Hans

[Selander]

A topic I find interesting but I think there exists neater and technically superior solutions e g by Baard.

[dr_spock]

Interesting idea. You can probably hide the mechanism inside a locomotive slug or tender. Not sure if you really need to use two LAs. I think one would have sufficent force to separate the couplers. But if you have many LAs sitting around, I guess why not use them.

[Hanso]

Thanks for the replies and remarks/suggestions.

Yes, of course you're both right. I never claimed to have the most superior solution. It is a solution that works (and I never try to minimize the number of bricks ;-). For the Mindstorms version, we want to show how the internals work for children (we always demo on Lego World in Utrecht). So we never hide the mechanism. For the PF version, it is just a small prototype and it would (of course) be more nice to hide it into a loco or wagon.

/Hans

[baard]

While I appreciate the beauty of showing children how mechanisms work my experience at shows is that wow factors can be achieved as well with hidden mechanisms.

I have built in a decoupler in the bogie itself using the same loco as you, but my mechanism is using retraction of the magnet rather than pushing of the wagons.

Se example from my Flickr page here:

Picking up the train to show the kids afterwards is always fun.

Cheers,

Baard

[Hanso]

Hi Baard,

Looks really nice (understatement ;-).

Thank you for sharing the info.

/Hans

[Godtshep]

Really interesting idea with great execution. Well done!