AnyRail Model Railroad Forum

General Category => Introduce yourself => Topic started by: Robtama on February 27, 2023, 09:47:34 PM

Title: Getting started
Post by: Robtama on February 27, 2023, 09:47:34 PM
Hi I s just joined and a novice to any rail
I've got an 11foot x6foot board for my layout and it has 2 square cutouts for acces in case of derailments etc
How do I put these into the plan of the board this is a straight rectangle with 2 squares equal at both ends
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: David on February 28, 2023, 03:55:46 PM
Best is to create a work area large enough.
Next, draw a surface for your train table. Make sure to check the 'Table top' checkbox for this surface so you will see it in 3D as well.
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: Robtama on March 07, 2023, 07:53:51 PM
That bit I get but how do I put the square cutouts in on the table top as I need these in place so I can work around them with planning the layout
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: David on March 07, 2023, 08:10:03 PM
It is not possible to cut holes in a surface.

What you can do is drawing the table not as one surface, but as two 'U' shaped ones and a rectangular one in the middle.

Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: BadBanana on March 08, 2023, 02:05:16 AM
There is another way if you like...  You can simply draw a more complex outline.  You could use the attached file as a starting point, perhaps.  You can then edit the settings to change the available space, change the units if needed, change the grid, move any of the points to see how the shape is constructed.  However, David's suggestion is just as valid, and can perhaps be more useful if you want any modularity in the design.   
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: David on March 08, 2023, 10:10:16 AM
@BadBanana: Your solution is better. I've done this often with one cutout, but I simply did not realize this is also possible with two cutouts (or more) as you illustrate. Thanks.
Title: Re: Getting started
Post by: BadBanana on March 12, 2023, 03:19:04 AM
There's always more than one solution to problems like this.  :)
I developed a whole set of layout skills back in the 80s and 90s when I used to layout complex printed circuit boards professionally.  One thing that I like about AnyRail is that it allows me that same kind of creativity.