Abstract: A method of providing an intelligent response on an electronic device and an apparatus therefor are provided. The method includes receiving a command from a user of the electronic device, analyzing the command, generating, based on the analyzed command, at least one intelligent response corresponding to the command and an actual response corresponding to the command, the at least one intelligent response including at least one of a sound effect associated with the command, a vibration effect associated with the command, or a visual effect associated with the command, and outputting the at least one intelligent response and the actual response by the electronic device.

Abstract: A sound control apparatus includes a sound selector that selects a base sound corresponding to condition information of a vehicle, a filter generator that analyzes a sound of an object, generates one or more partial formant filters, and synthesizes the generated one or more partial formant filters to generate an integrated formant filter, and a sound controller that uses the generated integrated formant filter and the selected base sound to generate a driving sound.

Abstract: The invention relates to the utilization of magnetism in the roll stabilization and suspension of a radio-controlled car. In small radio-controlled vehicles, in particular, it is difficult to implement the conventional mechanical roll stabilization and a well-functioning suspension due to the small size, the accuracy required, dirt, and the loads exerted on the structures. In the structure according to the invention, the roll stabilization and suspension are implemented by means of magnetism, according to FIG. 2. The magnets at the ends of supporting arms (6) attract each other, implementing the roll stabilization. Magnets (3) are installed under the supporting arm magnets, repelling them and providing suspension.

Abstract: Disclosed are a vehicle, an apparatus for generating a driving sound of the vehicle, and an apparatus and method for controlling a driving sound of the vehicle. The present invention intends to provide a driving sound of a vehicle having a characteristic desired by a driver. The vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a voice signal input unit configured to receive a voice signal; a filter generation unit configured to extract a characteristic of the voice signal and generate a driving sound filter considering the characteristic of the voice signal; and a driving sound control unit configured to generate a default driving sound based on a driving state of the vehicle and generate a new driving sound obtained by applying the driving sound filter to the default driving sound.

Abstract: This invention relates to devices that enable a user to view a perspective view on a camera mounted to a model railroad train. Previously, the camera carrier wave of the camera was corrupted by inconsistent power going to the camera and interference from a model railroad engine, which is part of the model railroad train. The present invention uses a power supply circuit (14) and battery with battery management circuit to remedy the inconsistent power problem by removing spikes and gaps in power. A high gain antenna (31) remedies the interference problem by greatly increasing the reception of the camera carrier wave of the camera. Further, a battery management circuit can ensure that consistent power is provided to both the camera and the model railroad engine.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for pivoting a pilot on a model train, thereby allowing the model train to maneuver around a section of a model train track having a relatively small radius. In one embodiment of the present invention, the model train includes a frame, a shell connected to the frame, at least one truck assembly, at least one pilot and at least one coupler, wherein the coupler includes a coupler assembly and a coupler arm. The pilot is connected to a pilot arm, and the pilot arm, the coupler arm and the truck assembly are pivotally attached to the frame (e.g., via common or different pivots). In another embodiment of the present invention, the model train shell includes an aperture configured to receive a pilot arm. The pilot arm is connected to the pilot, which includes an aperture adapted to receive a coupler arm. The shell aperture is sized to allow the pilot arm to pivot from side to side, and the pilot aperture is sized to allow the coupler arm to pivot from side to side.

Abstract: On-board model railroad speaker enclosure designs are presented that allow maximum sized speakers, improve impedance matching of sound to the outside of the locomotive, and isolate back and front speaker waves while maintaining the standard horizontal drive-train in model train locomotives.

Abstract: A track cleaning car that includes a base plate having a top surface, a bottom surface, a front end, and a rear end, a hole centrally disposed in the base plate with a motor suspended over the hole, the motor disposed from a floating plate compressibly mounted over the base plate on a plurality of springs, each of the plurality of springs disposed around each of a plurality of guide rods, the motor engaging a driveshaft to rotate a rotatable disk with a cleaning pad removably attachable thereto, and the track cleaning car having a photomicroprocessor sensible of the motion of the track cleaning car, the photomicroprocessor arresting the motor when sensing the track cleaning car is at rest.

Abstract: On-board model railroad speaker enclosure designs are presented that isolate back and front speaker waves. In one example, a first speaker may be disposed inside of a model steam locomotive tender, and a second speaker disposed inside of the model steam locomotive. Bass sounds and mid-range sounds may be separately directed to the first and second speakers, and isolated from mixing with one another.

Abstract: In an automatic coupler for a model railroad car, a coupler body includes a knuckle coupler member formed of a coupler trunk having a knuckle portion and an engagement portion, and a receiving coupler member formed of a coupler trunk having a receiving portion and an engagement portion. A holder includes a lower holder member having a holder plate, a holder shaft projecting from the holder plate and adapted to engage with the engagement portions, and a spring portion adapted to surround the engagement portions. The holder plate, holder shaft, and the spring portion are integrally formed, and an upper holder member is adapted to be fixed to the lower holder member with the coupler body interposed between. The coupler body and the holder have a guide mechanism that allows the coupler body to follow a curve when the car travels on the curve.

Abstract: A wheel device for a toy vehicle, in which one of a pair of wheels rolling on a pair of metal rails attracts with a magnet to reduce resistance caused by magnetic force and suppress load on a motor. The wheel device 1 includes a first axle 2, and a first wheel 10 and a second wheel 20 provided on opposite sides of the first axle 2. The first wheel 10 includes a first wheel main body 11 rolling on one of the rails 261 and a first flange 12 guided by the one rail. The second wheel 20 includes a second wheel main body 21 rolling on the other of the rails 261 and a second flange 22 guided by the other rail. The second wheel main body 21 is formed of a magnet.

Abstract: A model railroad train or other vehicle capable of operating in a vertical plane, inverted, or at any other desired angle of inclination.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for pivoting a pilot on a model train, thereby allowing the model train to maneuver around a section of a model train track having a relatively small radius. In one embodiment of the present invention, the model train includes a frame, a shell connected to the frame, at least one truck assembly, at least one pilot and at least one coupler, wherein the coupler includes a coupler assembly and a coupler arm. The pilot is connected to a pilot arm, and the pilot arm, the coupler arm and the truck assembly are pivotally attached to the frame (e.g., via common or different pivots). In another embodiment of the present invention, the model train shell includes an aperture configured to receive a pilot arm. The pilot arm is connected to the pilot, which includes an aperture adapted to receive a coupler arm. The shell aperture is sized to allow the pilot arm to pivot from side to side, and the pilot aperture is sized to allow the coupler arm to pivot from side to side.

Abstract: A model vehicle, such as a model electric train, includes a model pantograph. The operation of the pantograph is automated using a motor, drive train, and control circuit. An upper articulating portion of the pantograph is mounting to the model vehicle using a breakaway assembly. The upper articulating portion may also be coupled to a drive motor via an elastic coupling permitting elastic movement of the upper portion independently of the drive motor.

Abstract: A train system includes a track and at least one train component. Connectable and detachable segments join to form the track. Each segment includes a main body with an upper running surface upon which train components run. A receiving chamber is formed within the main body. A pair of track members extend outwardly from opposed sides of the main body. A connector component, with a neck portion and a distal portion, extends outwardly from the main body opposite the receiving chamber and engages the receiving chamber of another segment. The segments move in up-down and side-to-side directions. Each train component connects to the track by a pair of rail guides that engage the opposed sides of the main body. A spring element connected between the rail guides operates a switch element to drive a drive member, which engages the upper running surface to move the train component along the track.

Abstract: On-board model railroad speaker enclosure designs are presented that allow maximum sized speakers, improve impedance matching of sound to the outside of the locomotive, and isolate back and front speaker waves while maintaining the standard horizontal drive-train in model train locomotives.

Abstract: A model train car having a union with a force sensor is disclosed. The force sensor is configured to measure the amount of force acting on the coupler. The information gathered from the force sensor may work in conjunction with a communication link or a local control unit so that realistic train effects can be produced reflecting the change in force being felt by the model train.

Abstract: A wireless DCC model railroad throttle comprises a throttle program operable on a portable data processing device to display a graphical user interface and communicate a user's control inputs to a layout controlling interface managing communication with a digitally controlled model railroad layout.

Abstract: A control and motor arrangement in accordance with the present invention includes a motor configured to generate a locomotive force for propelling the model train. The control and motor arrangement further includes a command control interface configured to receive commands from a command control unit wherein the commands correspond to a desired speed. The control and motor arrangement still further includes a plurality of detectors configured to detect speed information of the motor, and a process control arrangement configured to receive the speed information from the sensors. The process control arrangement is further configured and arranged to generate a plurality of motor control signals based on the speed information for controlling the speed of said motor. The control and motor arrangement yet still further includes a motor control arrangement configured to cause power to be applied to the motor at different times in response to the motor control signals.

Abstract: A power regulation device and method for a model railway system is provided. The device comprises inputs that connect to a supply of a digital command control (DCC) waveform and to a track section to be powered by the DCC waveform. The device comprises a current measuring circuit that measures current flow associated with the DCC waveform supplied at the inputs. A switch is connected between the inputs and outputs that are in turn connected to respective rails of the track section. A controller is provided that analyzes a current measurement signal produced by the current measuring circuit and controls the switch to disconnect supply of the DCC waveform to the outputs when a true over-current condition is detected. The device may also comprise an auto-reversing function to accommodate reverse loop track sections.

Abstract: A toy vehicle and a track are provided. The track includes a first recess underneath a first rack and a second recess underneath a second rack opposite the first rack, and the vehicle includes a first coupler with a first lateral portion for insertion into the first recess and a second lateral portion for insertion into the second recess, such that the first lateral portion is adapted to move in the first recess and the second lateral portion is adapted to move in the second recess during motion of the vehicle along the track so as to secure the vehicle to the track. Also, magnet-coupling elements may be provided. Further, the vehicle includes gears disposed near the bottom of the vehicle, and the track includes a pair of opposed racks to cooperate with teeth of the gears to impart motion to the vehicle along the track.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for designating a particular model vehicle for a command function without punching in the ID of the model vehicle. A remote control device is positioned near one of the model vehicles. A limited field transmission occurs between the model vehicle and the remote control device. The device may be a train engine transmitting its train ID periodically via an infrared (IR) transmission. The remote near the train automatically receives the IR transmission of the train ID, so that the next press of a command button will automatically go to that train ID without needing to punch in the ID number.

Abstract: The proposed Amlev Self-Regulating System of High Speed Ground Transportation Based on Permanent Magnets and Steel Cores is designated for magnetic levitation, stabilization, and propulsion of vehicles moving without friction. The proposed system comprises subsystems: a Magneto-Dynamic Levitation and Stabilizing Self-Regulating System (MDLSS), and a Permanent Magnet Linear Synchronous Motor (PMLSM). Both systems comprise permanent magnets and steel cores. MDLSS provides levitation and stabilization of vehicle while PMLSM produces propulsion force providing the assigned alternative velocity of the vehicle along the stator winding powered by the current of constant frequency 50 Hz. Each of the subsystems comprises two main parts: a fixed part—guideway/stator including extended steel cores for MDLSS and windings for PMLSM, and moving part—permanent magnets of the levitator for MDLSS and the rotor for PMLSM—both affixed to the moving vehicle.

Abstract: A model railroad train or other vehicle capable of operating in a vertical plane, inverted, or at any other desired angle of inclination.

Abstract: The invention is a model railroad track scrubbing car with rollers set at a scrub angle of about 30° to scrubs the tops and sides of the track rails. The rollers freely rotate about fixed axle under the chassis of the weighted car. Each roller is preferably a conventional paint roller with an inner sleeve and an outer tubular roll made of an absorbent, compressible, resilient foam material. The active working surfaces of each roller compress against, frictionally engage and deform around the tops and sides of the rails. The scrub angle and rollers provide across-the-rail scrubbing action and possibly along-the-rail scrubbing action. The circumferential working areas of the rollers are wider than the width of their associated track rails. The scrub angle and height of the roller axle above the track rails are adjustable to set the amount of roller compression and scrubbing action against the track rails.

Abstract: A train system includes a track and at least one train component. Connectable and detachable segments join to form the track. Each segment includes a main body with an upper running surface upon which train components run. A receiving chamber is formed within the main body. A pair of track members extend outwardly from opposed sides of the main body. A connector component, with a neck portion and a distal portion, extends outwardly from the main body opposite the receiving chamber and engages the receiving chamber of another segment. The segments move in up-down and side-to-side directions. Each train component connects to the track by a pair of rail guides that engage the opposed sides of the main body. A spring element connected between the rail guides operates a switch element to drive a drive member, which engages the upper running surface to move the train component along the track.

Abstract: A model vehicle, such as a model electric train, includes a force-isolating drive mechanism. The drive mechanism provides a mechanical linkage and speed reduction between an output shaft of a motor for a model locomotive and its drive wheels, via a gear train. The gear train includes a floating mechanism that permits the model locomotive drive wheels vertical freedom of movement, while still remaining mechanically linked to the gear train. The floating mechanism isolates the model locomotive from forces transmitted from the track bed through the drive wheels, thereby providing a more stable and vibration-free model performance.

Abstract: On-board model railroad speaker enclosure designs are presented that allow maximum sized speakers, improve impedance matching of sound to the outside of the locomotive, and isolate back and front speaker waves while maintaining the standard horizontal drive-train in model train locomotives.

Abstract: A truck for use on a piece of model railroad rolling stock, the truck having axle/wheels sets associated therewith includes two identical truck portions, which, when joined, form a model railroad truck frame, which is held together by mechanical impedance by a frame retainer located in a central mounting structure formed by joining the two truck portions.

Abstract: A model vehicle, such as a model electric train, includes a motorized tilt mechanism for tilting train cars when traversing curved sections of track. The operation of the tilt mechanism is automated using a motor, drive train, and control circuit. A motorized tilt mechanism moves a train car body between left, right, and upright positions, depending on the direction and speed of movement of the model train. The control circuit permits automatic operation of the tilt mechanism in response to position and velocity input.

Abstract: A toy vehicle is operated as a track-guided vehicle and cooperates with a metallic current rail device of the track via one or more current consumers. A magnet is installed in the toy vehicle which is moved by an electric motor to optimize the traction between the track and the toy vehicle. This magnet is directed at the current rail device of the track. The magnet's magnetic force can be influenced as a function of driving operation states of the toy vehicle driven by the electric motor.

Abstract: A model train car uses an improved coupling mechanism that permits close coupling of adjacent cars in a model train, while also providing a rotational operating range that permits operation of the train with tighter model track curves. The coupling mechanism operates to extend a coupling bar from the model car when the train turns to the right or left, providing clearance for further rotation of the bar. The mechanism further provides for elastic portions of the model car housing, which give way to the rotating coupling bar as the bar rotates towards its outer limits.

Abstract: A truck for use on a piece of model railroad rolling stock, the truck having axle/wheels sets associated therewith includes two identical truck portions, which, when joined, form a model railroad truck frame, which is held together by mechanical impedance by a frame retainer located in a central mounting structure formed by joining the two truck portions.

Abstract: A truck for use on a model railroad car, in association with plural axle/wheel sets, includes a left truck side frame and a right side frame, each having a bolster receiver therein; an elongate bolster extending between said right frame half and said left frame half, wherein each end of said bolster is received in said bolster receiver of a truck side frame; and a polymer spring member received in each of said bolster receivers between a bottom surface of said bolster receiver and a bottom surface of a bolster end for (1) retaining the bolster in the bolster receiver, and (2) allowing limited torsion of said left truck frame and said right truck frame relative to one another and to said bolster.

Abstract: A smoke generating device for a model train that includes a smoke generating element supported by a support member. The smoke generating element can be wound around the support member is a generally helical pattern. The number of turns and the distance between turns can be varied to enhance the smoke generating properties of the device. The support member can be braided fiberglass. A length and cross-section of the support member can be varied to support smoke generating elements of different lengths. The length of the smoke generating element can be varied to produce smoke generating devices having different resistive values.

Abstract: A system which operates a digitally controlled model railroad transmitting a first command from a first client program to a resident external controlling interface through a first communications transport. A second command is transmitted from a second client program to the resident external controlling interface through a second communications transport. The first command and the second command are received by the resident external controlling interface which queues the first and second commands. The resident external controlling interface sends third and fourth commands representative of the first and second commands, respectively, to a digital command station for execution on the digitally controlled model railroad.

Abstract: The model train controller interface device provides a user with the capability of operating model train engine, switch and accessories of one manufacturer with the handheld wireless device of a second manufacturer. Inserted between the command base units and controller devices of different model train manufacturers, the interface device allows the wireless remote of one train system to operate components of the other train system without loss of functionality by either model train system.

Abstract: A method for speed control for a motor of a locomotive of a model electric train is presented. A method in accordance with the present invention includes sensing an operating velocity of the motor and the operating current provided to the motor, and then producing a signal corresponding to the operating velocity and a signal corresponding to the operating current. A method in accordance with the present invention further includes providing the operating velocity signal and operating current signal to a controller and establishing a target motor velocity. A method in accordance with the present invention still further includes calculating a target current configured so that the motor reaches the target motor velocity, and then changing the operating current to the target motor current to achieve the target motor velocity.

Abstract: A system and method for weighting a model railcar which uses a plurality of thin machined led alloy weights disposed in recesses of a model rail car frame.

Abstract: A system which operates a digitally controlled model railroad transmitting a first command from a first client program to a resident external controlling interface through a first communications transport. A second command is transmitted from a second client program to the resident external controlling interface through a second communications transport. The first command and the second command are received by the resident external controlling interface which queues the first and second commands. The resident external controlling interface sends third and fourth commands representative of the first and second commands, respectively, to a digital command station for execution on the digitally controlled model railroad.

Abstract: A system which operates a digitally controlled model railroad transmitting a first command from a first client program to a resident external controlling interface through a first communications transport. A second command is transmitted from a second client program to the resident external controlling interface through a second communications transport. The first command and the second command are received by the resident external controlling interface which queues the first and second commands. The resident external controlling interface sends third and fourth commands representative of the first and second commands, respectively, to a digital command station for execution on the digitally controlled model railroad.

Abstract: A model railroad track cleaning car having a cleaning element suspended between a pair of wheeled trucks. The cleaning element is an abrasive material that is affixed to the underside of a weighted chassis that is suspended from a pair of articulating arms connected to the respective wheeled trucks. The cleaning material is easily replaced by removing a pair of fasteners from the chassis. A spring tension apparatus is positioned between the articulating arm and the cleaning element chassis to selectively position the cleaning element over the model railroad tracks. A retaining wire is captured in the articulating arm and engages the corresponding truck to turn the articulating arm with the truck, thus positioning the cleaning element over the model railroad tracks even when traversing a curve. A thumb wheel is formed with a notch that receives the articulating arm to lock the thumb wheel into a selected position.

Abstract: A model electric train car possessing various movable parts which allow the train car's pivotally-mounted truck and coupler assembly to maneuver around tight curves without interference from model train steps, skirts or other train car parts in close proximity to the train coupler, thereby, avoiding derailment of the toy train. The steps, skirts or other train parts to swing, slide, rotate, or otherwise move away from the truck and coupler assembly, being attached to the train car by pins, hinges, slides, snap connectors or the like to allow the free movement of the train parts.

Abstract: A system which operates a digitally controlled model railroad transmitting a first command from a first client program to a resident external controlling interface through a first communications transport. A second command is transmitted from a second client program to the resident external controlling interface through a second communications transport. The first command and the second command are received by the resident external controlling interface which queues the first and second commands. The resident external controlling interface sends third and fourth commands representative of the first and second commands, respectively, to a digital command station for execution on the digitally controlled model railroad.

Abstract: A model vehicle runs on a running surface which comprises a substrate having an array of contact pins, the tops of the contact pins forming one electrode and the sides of the contact pins forming a second electrode. The model vehicle comprises wheels for running over the running surface, an electrically powered drive means, a first pick-up for engaging the tops of the contact pins, and a second pick-up for engaging the sides of the contact pins.

Abstract: A model vehicle runs on a running surface which comprises a substrate having an array of contact pins, the tops of the contact pins forming one electrode and the sides of the contact pins forming a second electrode. The model vehicle comprises wheels for running over the running surface, an electrically powered drive means, a first pick-up for engaging the tops of the contact pins, and a second pick-up for engaging the sides of the contact pins.

Abstract: A toy vehicle set accessory is claimed. The toy vehicle set accessory comprises a grain loader and a toy vehicle adapted for use with the grain loader. The grain loader comprises a grain elevator assembly for simulating the transfer of grain to the toy vehicle. The toy vehicle includes a movable load and a release mechanism for returning the movable load from an unstable condition to a stable condition.

Abstract: A cleaning model railroad car which can do various cleaning by itself and which can do cleaning effectively regardless of a travel speed thereof. The cleaning model railroad car 8 comprises: a car body 20; wheels 8b attached to the car body, for riding on rails 3a and 3b; a motor 8a attached to the car body, to which an electrical current is supplied through the wheels on the rails and a motor shaft 8e is provided; a dust collection chamber 21 provided at the car body; a head mounting concave portion 23 provided below the motor, for opening toward a lower surface of the car body below thereof and communicating with the dust collection chamber; and a cleaning head 24 or 25 provided at the motor shaft projected in the head mounting concave portion, which can be installed to and removed from the motor shaft.

Abstract: A system is provided for recording, storing and reproducing sound for playing back in an environment requiring simulated sounds, voices, and/or sound effects. Sounds are recorded on a chip and played back in an asynchronous manner from the chip as a result of activation of a switch or inertial movement within the system. A Hall-effect sensor, reed switch or momentary switch or the like may be implemented for enabling activation of the recorded sound from the chip for broadcasting. A compander compresses the sound on the chip and expands the compressed sound for playback. Employing the above system for audio storage, a sound, motor and special effects controller may be created for model train applications as well. The different functions of the sound unit are controlled through a discrete bi-polar digital command control signal using a unique address for each unit. A synchronous means of play back may also be employed when the system is used with the bi-polar signal using a sensor.

Abstract: A system is provided for recording, storing and reproducing sound for playing back in an environment requiring simulated sounds, voices, and/or sound effects. Sounds are recorded on a chip and played back in an asynchronous manner from the chip as a result of activation of a switch or inertial movement within the system. A Hall-effect sensor, reed switch or momentary switch or the like may be implemented for enabling activation of the recorded sound from the chip for broadcasting. A compander compresses the sound on the chip and expands the compressed sound for playback. Employing the above system for audio storage, a sound, motor and special effects controller may be created for model train applications as well. The different functions of the sound unit are controlled through a discrete bi-polar digital command control signal using a unique address for each unit. A synchronous means of play back may also be employed when the system is used with the bi-polar signal using a sensor.