Automatic track switching control apparatus

摘要

A new and improved automatic track switching control apparatus is provided for a switch assembly in a track layout for a lamp-containing model train. The automatic track switching control apparatus includes a first light sensor assembly which is supported by a base and which is located in the vicinity of a switch assembly in the track layout. The first light sensor assembly senses light emitted from a lamp on the lamp-containing model train as it approaches the switch assembly. A signal processing assembly is connected to the first light sensor assembly for receiving the electrical signal representing the approach of the lamp-containing model train to the first light sensor assembly. A switch-flipping assembly is connected to the signal processing assembly for receiving a second electrical signal for controlling switch status of the switch assembly. The signal processing assembly includes a counter assembly for counting first electrical signals provided by the first light sensor assembly. The counter assembly controls a pair of switch assemblies by way of the switch-flipping assembly. The counter assembly controls operation of a resistance clement for providing increased electrical resistance for electrical current supplied to the track layout, such that less current is available in the track layout for driving the lamp-containing model train that rides on the track layout, whereby speed of the lamp-containing model train is reduced when the resistance clement is placed in circuit with the track layout.