Marklin also makes it for HO, but I don't think they've even looked at it for Z. They gave up on DCC for Z years ago and now it is almost (not quite, although one could be deceived with all the cutting edge folks here) common in Z now. Randy
I really dont think it's unposible to do it with som smal actuators and function output on a dcc decoder. I think I'll take the challenge. Just need to get hold of some micro rc stuff. The smalles actuators I have seen is sub one gram. And a crative company with engineers this should not be a challenge at all what about N scale does there exist somthing like this there. So the ball is in the air the first company witch can achive this will sell many switchers.
Wastegate: Trying to link to a coupler would be a pain and, it has to swing freely. Since a magnet forces them, how about a small super magnet (say 1/16") that solenoids out from the chassis over the coupler?
Hi Wastegate, Welcome to Trainboard. I don't know how long we will wait for automatic uncoupling in Z, but someone will do it just to prove it can be done. I think it would be more fun if we can have sound, DCC, light effects, and automatic uncoupling all in 1!
this is an interesting thread. i looked at the link provided earlier i really think the solution lies in pushing the rear of the coupler (the top part where the knuckle moves). if a tiny wire could be inserted where the "bump" is on top of the coupler (where is swings in the hollow space in the cover) it would only take very slight pressure to push it from inside. of course it would mean drilling a clearance hole through the chassis right over that part of the coupler. a solenoid would be simple -- like they ones they make in those cheap little R/C cars you get at radio shack. however it's done, pushing the coupler from the back is going to be the most elegant solution thus far. that's my 2 cents. dave f.
