Timed Loco Operation

[Ray Von]

Hi, I hope the mods don't mind but I am reposting this question from "Electronics non DCC" in the hope of reaching a wider audience:

 

I'm making (doodling) a very small tuning-fork layout, strictly for fun and I want to make a real "game" of the traditional shunting-puzzle format.

 

My question is this: Using an IRDOT preferably, or reed switch - would it be possible to trigger a simple timer with LED or LCD display that would be sited on the layout control panel?

 

Specifically, when the train enters the tuning fork (from the left) a sensor triggers a timer - the timer would stop and display a time when the train travels back over the sensor and off of the layout.

 

Well, that's the theory...

 

All ideas and suggestions greatly appreciated!

[Dave John]

Well, If I decided to do that I'd start off with a timer kit like this, which I have used for another job.

 

https://quasarelectronics.co.uk/Item/velleman-k8035-multifunctional-up-down-counter-kit

 

and then use an IRDOT or similar optical sensor to trigger it .

 

At 20 quid its a fun thing to play with anyway.

[Ray Von]

Wow! Thanks, that looks the business. :-)