I would like to add one more thought to this thread about the sensor track, and LCS in general: Randomness!!
In order to make the layout more fun to watch, or even play "against" as a solitary operator, it would be great if you could program RANDOM delays or route changes so that the trains would interact with switches, signals, accessories, etc. and take on a life of their own.
What if every time you cross the sensor there's a chance your train will develop a hotbox? Maybe your crew is nearing its 12-hour limit? Maybe those cows in the cattle car have to be watered and fed, or the reefers need re-icing?
Well-implemented randomness can take on the appearance of autonomy, or even intelligence. If the layout is sufficiently complex you might be able to watch for an hour and not see the same train do the same thing twice. Waiting to see all of the possibilities come out is what keeps people playing longer IMO.
But this functionality has to be thoughtfully programmed in. Please Jon Z, think about it! -Ted
