Mixed Reality Model Train (2020)

H0 gauge Märklin locomotive refitted with a DC motor and a motor driver, Arduino Nano, NRF24l01 2.4Ghz transceiver, 4K Digital camera, 5.8Ghz 4K Digital A/V transmitter, Custom designed PCB, Custom built 4-cell Lipo, 3D Printed chassis, Custom software, various electronics

This highly compact but capable H0 gauge spec model train is designed and built for IMG-lab which presented a mixed-reality attraction for a theme park. It was opeated in trade shows around the world, including 2019 IAAPA Orlando. Other than the train - the structure, ride, and digital contents - were built by IMG-lab, in close coordination with the external triggers and timers within the train.

PCB part prototyping of the model train (PCB design done on KiCad)

Fresh out of the mill

Resistor, Diode and header on the back

Buck converter, NRF24l01, hall sensor

Power connection

Double decking PCBs

Arduino Nano and motor driver

Status indicator LED too

CNC milled heatsink

Everything being fitted to its place within the chassis

Choo Choo