If you want to use working signals on your layout you need to have some sort of sensors or block detectors that detect the presence of a train in a particular track section. Here I am experimenting with a fresh way of block detection that offers low cost, high resolution and little installation pain.
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Follow these links for more information:
Github page for BDLxx_ESP32 Sketch: https://github.com/tanner87661/BDLxx_ESP32
Github page for Repository Page: https://github.com/tanner87661?tab=repositories
VL53L0X Datasheet: https://www.st.com/resource/en/datasheet/vl53l0x.pdf
VL53L1X Datasheet: https://www.st.com/resource/en/datasheet/vl53l1x.pdf
VCSEL Widkipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vertical-cavity_surface-emitting_laser
McKinley Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzyds8Oa9C0&t=401s
Ultra Sonic Detector Video: Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJFNf7kFHB0
TI Intro to ToF System Design: http://www.ti.com/lit/ug/sbau219d/sbau219d.pdf
Real World Sensor Example: https://www.fersil-railway.com/en/systems-softwares/train-detection/sil4-axle-counters/
Laser Class Definitions: Source: https://www.lasersafetyfacts.com/laserclasses.html
Digitrax BDL168: http://www.digitrax.com/tsd/KB51/bdl168-using-in-a-reversing-loop/
Digitrax BXP88: http://www.digitrax.com/products/detection-signaling/bxp88/
Wiring for DCC: http://www.wiringfordcc.com/blockdet.htm
DCC Wiki Train Detection: https://dccwiki.com/Train_Detection
Infrared Sensor Example: Source: https://www.iascaled.com/store/BlockDetection/CKT-IRSENSE-2PC
Dave Bodnar’s Incline: http://www.trainelectronics.com/Incline/InclineController/index.htm
Industrial Siding Picture: http://palisadecanyonrr.blogspot.com/2017/12
Background Videos taken at: Hendersonville, NC Train Depot Model Railroad Layout https://www.avmrc.com/