Appeal 2007-1326
Application 10/237,067
1 03. Ireland identifies a need for bi-directional communication with model
2 trains as being the “[k]ey to employing computer automation, [requiring]
3 a method of detecting both block occupancy of a track section and also
4 detecting and identifying the rolling stock that is actually in the block.
5 This ensures that the computer program does not need to consider an
6 infinite set of possible layout states, error conditions or inferred locations
7 of rolling stock, since it can monitor the exact state of the layout at any
8 time. Notably, operators tend to move locomotives and rolling stock
9 around the layout after derailments or coupling breaks or other actions,
10 in a manner that the real railroads cannot do. The model railroader can
11 simply pick up and move rolling stock from one location to another,
12 creating havoc with a system that can't make a positive identification of
13 rolling stock and its location. Practical computer enhancements need
14 positive identification of rolling stock and its location.” (Ireland, col. 2,
15 ll. 13-26).
16 04. Ireland identifies a further need for bi-directional communication as
17 the capability “to read state information back from rolling stock or
18 locomotives or even devices with fixed connections to the track. It is
19 possible to receive sound synchronization information from steam
20 locomotives moving on the layout, so a surround sound unit can create
21 realistic wheel synchronized chuff sounds. A function can be created
22 that detects the placement of a new unit on the layout that is not being
23 controlled or addressed by any user, to search for its control address and
24 then alert the layout supervisor. This feature can also detect the removal
11
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Last modified: September 9, 2013