Abstract: A model train car or engine wheel cleaning device includes a cradle having a base plate and side walls. Cleaning strips are mounted on the side walls and a spring loaded core is located there between. The core is moveable between a neutral position and a compressed position. Conductive strips are positioned on top of the core. Electrical contacts are electrically connected to the conductive strips. During use, the core is in the compressed position and the rail contact surfaces of the wheels contact the cleaning strips. When cleaning a model train engine with motorized wheels, the wheel rims are in contact with the conductive strips and an electric current is supplied to the electrical contacts, causing the wheels to turn and be cleaned. When cleaning a model train car with free-spinning wheels, the car is manually moved back and forth, causing the wheels to turn and be cleaned.

Abstract: A model train car or engine wheel cleaning device includes a cradle having a base plate and side walls. Cleaning strips are mounted on the side walls and a spring loaded core is located there between. The core is moveable between a neutral position and a compressed position. Conductive strips are positioned on top of the core. Electrical contacts are electrically connected to the conductive strips. During use, the core is in the compressed position and the rail contact surfaces of the wheels contact the cleaning strips. When cleaning a model train engine with motorized wheels, the wheel rims are in contact with the conductive strips and an electric current is supplied to the electrical contacts, causing the wheels to turn and be cleaned. When cleaning a model train car with free-spinning wheels, the car is manually moved back and forth, causing the wheels to turn and be cleaned.

Abstract: A helical structure having a shaft defining an axis of rotation and a substantially helical flight extending about the axis of rotation and composed of a plurality of sections each having a segment disposed in substantially right angular relation to the axis of rotation. A method for manufacturing a helical structure or the like including the steps of producing a mold having a mold cavity defining a configuration for the helical structure having a substantially helical flight composed of a plurality of sections having segments disposed in substantially right angular relation to an axis of rotation for the helical structure, introducing a moldable substance into the mold cavity to form the helical structure in the configuration and removing the helical structure from the mold cavity by separating the mold along a path substantially aligned with the segments.