Abstract: A switching arrangement for model trains includes tracks arranged in multiple closed paths which have at least one track section in common. The various paths are interconnected by remote controlled track switches. In order to assure that the train traverses the tracks in a random fashion, a signaling device activated by the passage of the train, is located in the common track section. The speed of the train, and hence its residence time over the signaling device, determines the length of the signal produced by this device. This signal drives a motor for its duration, which motor moves a selection arm that passes contacts wired to the tracks switches. The location of the track switching contacts are randomly spaced over the path of the selection arm. Since the train may move at various speeds and the contacts are randomly spaced, the positions of the track switches that are operated by each passage of the train over the common section of track are randomly selected.

Abstract: A tracked vehicle switch assembly is operatively connected between a single main track and a pair of diverging tracks for selectively diverting a vehicle moving along the main track to one of the diverging tracks. The switch assembly includes first and second track sections having first abutting ends, and second ends respectively connected to the main track and the pair of diverging tracks. The first track section is thus a continuation of the main track, while the second track section is a continuation of the pair of diverging tracks. The abutting ends of the first and second track sections are operatively connected to a moving device which simultaneously moves these ends in opposite directions between two extreme positions, in substantially the same plane, thereby to selectively align the first track section with the tracks of the second track section in order to selectively direct a vehicle on the main track to either of the diverging tracks.