Automated level-crossing signs AND gates
New and improved!
It's been a little while since I first shared my working model railway level-crossing lights project, and I've now revisited it with some significant improvements – and new versions of the videos.
For the signs themselves, I've designed 3D printable cowls for the lights, with an option to print the backs instead of using Sugru. The files for both of these are downloadable from the links below.
And, I've found a permanent home for the controller, mounted under the signal box, where it takes power from the tracks.
Updated Pico controller
Also updated is my Raspberry Pi Pico controller – now with power from the tracks and an added remote control button, so you don't have to lift up the signal box every time a train comes past.
Full automation with break-beam sensors
...and in my latest video, I've fully automated the operation, triggering – and finishing – the light sequence with break-beam sensors.
The code for this can be found below.
NEW! Automated gates
Work in progress
I've started work on getting my crossing gates to open and close automatically - initially with servos, operated with buttons. Ultimately I will get the break beams to trigger the gates soon, but first I need to get the basic mechanism working.
Very much work in progress at the moment, you can see how I'm getting on in my latest video. The files for the base are available to download below (usual usage rules apply).
Further developments in part 2
In my latest video, I got the stand-alone crossing running really well - complete with a new 3D printed base and crossing gates, which fit directly onto the Tower Micro Servos. The files for these can be found below.
And, after a bit of a detour into stepper motors, I also finally managed to mount the gates on my layout, using smaller servos, with individual bases dropped into holes cut in the crossing.
Full automation!
In the final part of the project I've got the gates and lighting sequence working together. Now, when the train breaks the beam on the far side of the track, the lighting sequence begins - and triggers the closing of the gates, just in time for the approaching train.
With some simple adaptations to both lighting and gate controllers, the two Raspberry Pi Picos now seamlessly integrate the functions.
