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posted: 30 Oct 2012 21:32 from: Martin Wynne
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Templot has always marked the position of the switch blade tips and extent of planing on the printed templates. Getting the rails correctly aligned to these marks is half the battle in building a good working switch. But I sometimes see pics posted on RMweb and elsewhere showing turnouts built on Templot templates where this has not been achieved. Often there is no clearly defined set in the stock rail, or the blade tips are in fresh air between the timbers, or the planing length is too long making the switch blade too flexible to open properly. I think part of the problem is that the marks are not very prominent, and are usually obscured once the timbers have been attached to the template. The original intention was that users would print a second copy of the template for reference -- possibly on tracing paper so that it can be laid directly on the rail tops to check the alignments. However, I think it would be better if these marks were more prominent on the working template print, and extended beyond the timber outline to remain visible during construction. So in the next update I have added a new switch labels function to show these locations more clearly: 2_301609_490000000.png These additions will be on the printed templates and PDF exports only, and only when the output is at 100% size for construction. For experienced builders who don't want these extra details, they can be turned off in the output elements... dialog: 2_301609_490000001.png In the next program update. regards, Martin. |
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posted: 30 Oct 2012 23:06 from: Paul Boyd
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Hi Martin That seems like a really good idea, and not just for the less experienced builders! It'll provide a useful double-check after the switch has been built. Whilst you're at it though, how about also emphasising the joggle? That can be quite subtle on the printed template and will help a novice track-builder to get it in exactly the right place, not to mention a reminder of its existence! I've always found switches need a lot of care in building, more so than a crossing, so the more guidance there is, the better. Cheers |
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posted: 31 Oct 2012 12:11 from: Martin Wynne
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Paul Boyd wrote:Whilst you're at it though, how about also emphasising the joggle?Hi Paul, I'm in two minds about that -- I don't want the template to get too cluttered. Generally only experienced builders make joggles (for the relevant prototypes), and should know what they are doing. The existing joggle return mark is usually clear of the timber, so remains visible during construction. However, I have now added a label to clearly identify the joggle return marks. This only on templates with joggled switches, of course. We don't want to confuse beginners: 2_310654_390000001.png 2_310654_390000000.png Model joggles are tricky to do, and beginners are advised to stick to the plain undercut-style switches. regards, Martin. |
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posted: 31 Oct 2012 16:07 from: Paul Boyd
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Hi Martin That looks good - thanks! |
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