Ryaninspiron posted:And as a side project for those who want it I'm also going to look into adding TMCC / Legacy control of LionChief trains..
When LionChief came out, the biggest issue people had is that they could not control LC trains with a TMCC/Legacy controller. Lionchief Plus 2.0 fixes that issue as they are essentially TMCC engines with Bluetooth, but there are number of years worth of LC and LC+ that can not be controlled by the manufacturer's top of the line control system. They are still producing LC that can not be controlled by Legacy/TMCC. There is an opportunity to create a Legacy/TMCC to LC bridge.
Now as people use and enjoy Bluetooth control from their phone, all new locomotives come standard with a bluetooth receiver. Isn't it great that everyone visiting your layout now has a controller in their pocket? There is certainly an opportunity to expand upon the capabilities of the LC app and remote. This includes the speed control that you have demonstrated, but would also include controlling Legacy features that normally can only be tapped into via the Legacy controller.
You have also demonstrated bluetooth control of accessories and switches - which I think is a really cool. I know this is out of your control, but I think if the app could be updated to include more appropriate interfaces for switches and specific to each accessory, it would really enhance the usability.
Lastly, similar to the ERR and the BlueRail retrofit boards, I believe there is a market for LC boards to be installed in non-command locomotives.
In summary, I think the following would be useful in the hobby:
1. TMCC/Legacy to LC bridge
2. Expand LC App/remote control capabilities (set speed minimums, sound only remote, etc that you have demonstrated) for LC trains
3. Expand LC App/Remote capabilities to control Legacy features directly in Bluetooth legacy engines
4. LC App/remote bridge to Legacy control unit to control pre-Bluetooth legacy/tmcc equipment.
5. LC App/remote control of accessories/switches
6. LC App/remote control retrofit boards (or track power control) to control non-command engines. BlueRail has a nice solution in this space, however I believe it is designed for can motors and could not be used to control postwar Pullmor motors. @BOB WALKER , please correct me if I am wrong here.
