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Modbury Signal Box

Ian Smith

Entry posted by Ian Smith

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Following on from the theme of my last blog entry, I have continued with the Virtual Modelling. This time I have been drawing up the plans for my signal box, this is based on the one surviving (and preserved) at Bodmin General. I have a 4mm scale plan from the SLAG series of "Bodmin" articles in the Model Railway Constructor (and indeed built such a box from my 4mm layout many years ago). However, because I want to get the windows and doors etched I felt it would make sense to draw up a 2mm scale version (from which I can copy the items I wish to include on my etch artwork later). The resulting drawing is shown below, and also has the benefit that I will be able to print a few copies onto card and build a mock-up building to ensure that I am happy with the size and positioning of said box on the layout!

 

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Signal Box drawing (based on Bodmin General)

 

Once my mock up is built and I am happy with it, I will begin the build in plasticard, using embossed stonework and brickwork cladding where necessary. The windows and doors will have to wait until until my etch artwork is complete and I have a metal doily in my hand. This could be some time as I still have a couple of coaches to finish drawing and the windows for both signal box and station building to add to the artwork yet! I think that the windows for the station building will certainly benefit from the etch process :

 

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Main Station Building drawing (incomplete - based on Bovey Tracey)

 

Ian

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bgman

I take my hat off to you Ian, it's difficult enough in 4mm !

I think you're taking the right option to have the etches done it will enhance the final buildings.

Looking forward to the progress.

 

Grahame

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Mikkel
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That sent me off Googling the prototype. What a nice box. Will you be modelling the lever frame?

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wenlock
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Really looking forward to seeing this take shape Ian! I'm afraid CAD is completely beyond me, but I'm fascinated by what's possible in the right hands!

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Ian Smith

I take my hat off to you Ian, it's difficult enough in 4mm !

I think you're taking the right option to have the etches done it will enhance the final buildings.

Looking forward to the progress.

 

Grahame

Grahame, I think that bespoke etching is the way to go on this one, especially as I am currently drawing up the artwork for a variety of items that I want anyway.  I even considered doing the artwork so that the whole of the wooden section of the box was etched, but I think that might be overkill as I would then have to consider all sorts of other aspects to produce an actual kit.

 

That sent me off Googling the prototype. What a nice box. Will you be modelling the lever frame?

Mikkel,

I have always had a bit of a soft spot for the Bodmin box.  I think that the relatively small size and the combination of stonework and brickwork base (the chimney stack and supporting masonry at the back being brick) - In fact the back of the box will be the viewing side on the model.  I do intend giving the model a relatively complete interior - I've always felt that signal boxes really need modelled interiors more than any other building simply because the large glazed areas allowing the signalman a good view out also provide a good view in (even in 2mm).  If I think about it I'll have to take a photo of my 4mm version and post it here.

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Tim V

The box at Bodmin General is a replica, the original was demolished in the 70s. Nevertheless, they've done a good job of recreating it. It will be a very small structure in 2mm.

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Mikkel
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If I think about it I'll have to take a photo of my 4mm version and post it here.

 

I look forward to seeing a 2mm frame. I'm sure there are several of us who wouldn't mind a look at your 4mm version either - if you get around to it.

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Atso

Hi Ian,

 

Those signal box plans are looking good. A quick question though; if you are going to etch the windows, why don't you etch the whole box? I built the Severn Models etched signal box kit earlier this year (no connection with the company, just a happy customer) and, having previous shied away from etched kits, found it a joy to build. Below is a picture of my completed kit with some added details, I'm sure you could do something similar with your CAD plans. :)

 

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2015-06-29%2019.04.42_zpshc7thevh.jpg

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Donw
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Should look very good Ian. As you can do the artwork etching will be good for the windows. Cutting glazing bars is hard enough in 7mm let alone 2mm.

Don

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