Signalling Success

I've finished the electronics for the 4 signals at the east end of the station.  To my surprise there were only 2 mistakes (after I realised I'd plugged one of the connectors in backwards!).  Current consumption is up and my 12V 500mA PSU can't cope any more (the IR LEDs take a big chunk each, plus numerous red and green LEDs at 10mA each) so a 2.5A PSU is on order.

At this stage it is only the mimic signals on the control panel that work.  Fitting the actual signals should now be a relatively easy task of running the control wires back to the control panel (the wiring in the control panel is already complete).

The signals work exactly as in planned:

1. The correct route is selected (i.e. set the points)
2. Press the 'Eastbound Departure' button
3. The signal for the selected route changes from red to green
4. As the train departs and activates the track circuit in the tunnel, the signal automatically changes back to red

I've now removed the control panel and taken it back to work where I'll build up the circuit for the west end of the station.  I'm also pondering having an automatic signal outside the tunnel on the eastbound approach.  This will, probably, be automatic.

The control board in place in the control panel at Hannerton New Street

The top right section is for the west bound departures - the sockets are fitted, but no wiring yet.

The colours on the photo aren't great - but you can just make out the mimic signal  in platform  3 is 'pulled off'

Dry Runs

5 minutes tonight laying some ballast 'dry' to see what it will look like.  Also tried the redesigned station pillar in place on the platform.

Pillars

I've mocked up some pillars for Hannerton New Street.  These are the pillars which will support the station building.  Unfortunately I attempted to recreate them from memory, rather than looking for photos.  It was drawn up on computer and then printed on photopaper to give the shiny finish of tiles.

After printing it off, I then checked for images on the internet - and as can be seen I got them wrong!  Guess I'll need to redo it!

Attempt two - printed on normal paper to make sure everything looks right.

Retaining Interest

Today's update is on the less than inspiring subject of retaining walls!  Due to Hannerton New Street's supposed location in the middle of a city centre, and in a attempt to capture the flavour of Birmingham New Street, the station area sits below street level and is, therefore, surrounded by retaining walls.  These have been produced using Scalescene products (as were the platforms).  The matt varnish used to seal the surface gives the walls a very light colouring, but this will ultimately be rectified (as with the platform walls) by weathering using spray paints.

The east end retaining wall.  It still requires as additional wall on the top to stop pedestrians and cars falling onto the track below.

A close up of the retaining walls.

The HST disappears into the tunnel. Note the girder that has now been added to 'support' the brickwork.

The Train Now Arriving at Platform 3

First platform for Hannerton New Street completed - this will, in fact, be platforms 3 and 4.  Only one more to go!

More Platform Progress

Continued to work on the platform....

Platform Progress

Started work on the platforms.   I've used Scalescenes products for these (download and print as much as you like).  Two platform faces completed.