New status information (in red) since 8/31/04

As an adjunct to interest in the railway, a full scale ("P Gauge") steam locomotive simulator has been in construction since August, 2003.  The primary structure has been completed, representing the rightmost 60 percent of a circa 1900 ten-wheeler cab.  The design follows no specific prototype engine, but emphasizes functionality of controls and displays while providing a high degree of realism in overall locomotive operation.  The engineer's station is fully implemented and functional, plus essential fireman functions as follows:

The following are a few pictures of the cab internal arrangement (Backhead Side View, Engineer's Windows, Gauges, Brake Controls, Firebox with fire door open as shown left to right):

Software development has focused on evaluation of two software simulation applications: Microsoft's Train Simulator (MSTS) and Auran's Trainz.  It is possible that TrainMaster Train Simulator (TMTS) software will eventually be the best suited to this project, which is currently being developed by RailDriver for release later this year (hopefully!).  RailDriver is also developing ReDAC Human Interface Hardware essential to interface the controls and gauges with the simulation software application; RED-200-IO for analog and discrete controls, and RED-204-GM for gauges.

The components of an external view video projection system have been fabricated and installed to project the outside world as seen through the front and side windows by the engineer.  The arrangement of the video system components and their relation to the cab structure and engineer's station are illustrated in the plan view drawing.  The 72" screen is oriented at an angle to maximize the view through the side window, thereby enhancing peripheral vision motion cues.

This image is an actual screen shot taken while running MSTS on a desert route from Mojave to Barstow, part of "The Cajon Pass Route - High Desert Rails Edition" developed by 3D Train Stuff.  Window frames have been graphically added to portray the engineer's field of view while seated in the simulator.  The locomotive model being used was developed by John Fowlis and is representative of a late 1800's ten-wheeler.  The geographical location of the image is on a siding at Boron, CA, eastbound toward Kramer Junction, about four miles prior to the original Randsburg branch location.

The ultimate project objective is to develop a scenic model of the Randsburg Railway's 28-mile route that will permit a virtual drive along the "road to riches."

Please check back periodically for progress reports and additional information.