Abstract: A remote control system for use e.g. in controlling the locomotives and ancillary devices of a model train layout comprises a transmitter and a number of receivers incorporated in the devices to be controlled. A composite waveform is applied across the tracks, comprising a rectangular power supply waveform with intervals between positive and negative path cycles and control signals which occur in the latter parts of these intervals, the delay between the end of each half cycle and the control signals allowing time for reactive currents resulting from inductive loads to decay. The composite waveform is synthesized by two switching amplifiers driven by a microprocessor and having associated with it slider controls and a keyboard for controlling the receivers. The receivers are programmed to identify control signals addressed to them and to control an associated locomotive or an ancillary device appropriately.

Abstract: A model railway track component or unit comprises a unitary structure made of moulded synthetic plastics material and having a sleeper portion and two resiliently deformable rail-forming portions of unequal length extending in opposite directions from respective ends of the sleeper portion. The unequal length of the rail-forming portions is such as to permit two such components or units to be coupled together alternatively in a complementary reverse aspect for the formation of a straight length of track, or in a common aspect by deformation of the rail-forming portions for the formation of a curved length of track.