CyberExpress Train Track Switch

Boost MeFeel free to boost me! By doing so, you are helping me kickstart my design journey and incentivize me to release iterations of the print, like a version with LED lights or other decorative modules that attach to it. I'm a Product Design student, and all the support and feedback is welcome. Comment something while you're at it! All the contructive criticism about the model or it's assembly are also welcome, as I'm here to learn and grow as a part of this comunity!

Modular Railway Switch & Automated Magnetic Building Module

This project expands an existing modular 3D-printable railway system, the CyberExpress, by introducing two new functional modules that connect seamlessly: a manual track switch module and an automated building module with a magnetic coupling system, both designed to integrate with the original train track ecosystem.

Manual Track Switch Module

The track switch module allows the train to change between two different directions using a simple and reliable manual lever mechanism. It follows the same modular philosophy as the base railway system, ensuring compatibility with existing straight and curved track sections with the line compensations attached at both ends. The switch is designed for easy printing, alignment, intuitive operation and to use as little parts as possible, but still making it suitable for both display layouts and interactive use.

Automated Building Module with Magnetic Actuation

The second part of the model is a modular building that features a magnetic shaft mechanism that interfaces with the line and gives the user the opportunity to switch the track wirelessly. This horizontal system interfaces with the manual lever, locking it into place at the 2 extremes of the controller, but permitting full manual range when the switch is in the middle. The magnetic coupling enables precise alignment and easy dissassembly with tool-free interaction once installed, while remaining fully modular and expandable.

Design Philosophy

Both modules were designed with the same core principles as the original system:

• Full modularity, both mechanical and aesthetic. The building assembly makes it possible for later modules to be added onto the building for more emersive landscapes, while th magnetic coupling gives the user the choice to print the manual module now and attach it to the automated system later
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• 3D-printability
• Magnetic alignment and attachment
• Compatibility with the existing control panel and CyberBrick ecosystem
• An aesthetically pleasing design with the possibility of Multi-Colored printing or traditional painting

The model Itself

Locomotive and TCMS belong to Jorge Rui

Instructions about the assembly of the train track switch can be found in the PDF provided bellow.

 

Cyberexpress Cyberbrick Files

I will be providing the existing Cyberexpress files along with the solo train track switch, the ones set up by Jorge Rui but altered to have an aditional receiver dedicated to operating the switch, totalling to 1 remote and 2 receivers.

 

You can download them by clicking here. The cyberbrick conection locations found in the build instructions file remain the same for all files.