This variation is an improvement: I deleted the staging track in the upper left in favor of a passing track in the lower right (O-60). This adds another operating variation - two trains can run opposed in the outer (alternate/perimeter) O-60 route using the two passing tracks to pass each other.
So this layout has these primary operating modes for watching trains run without intervention:
- Two trains: the inner loop-to-loop (O-48 min) and the outer main (O-48 min).
- Two trains: the inner loop-to-loop (O-48 min) and the outer/alternate/ O-60 across the lift-out bridge (O-60 min).
- Two trains running the twice-around through the crossing (O-48 min).
- Two trains running the twice-around through the crossing and across the outer/alternate over the lift-out bridge (O-48 min).
- Three trains: the inner loop-to-loop (O-48 min), and two trains on the other/alternate/O-60 route (O-60 min) passing each other in the sidings (I am thinking conventional control with relays and detection so that trains pass in the sidings). These two train can run the same direction or opposing each other passing in the sidings.
Then there are variations and combinations of course, with the operator throwing turnouts to change routes, some of which could be automated with detection to throw the Fastrack turnouts.
Perhaps four or five trains on the layout, either two or three running depending on the operating mode/route combination, and the remaining in sidings waiting to swap out for a turn around the layout. Industry spurs and a turntable with engine tracks can go inside the two loops to round-out the plan.
Having the multiple routes and multiple operating modes (route combinations) plus the trains that can be "staged" on the layout waiting for a turn to run, will keep operators busy and visitors entertained for quite a while without boredom.
