would a well written web-site on modeling science be of interest?

[snjroy]

I like the idea of a single go-to place for more complex technical issues. Putting it online makes sense for quick updates - it takes a long time to publish a book... Not sure the word "science" would be appropriate though. This is more in the realm of technology than science.

I also think that the comment made by Markto in another thread about the importance of good writing is worth noting here. But what a challenge that is for more advanced technical issues!

Simon

[SeeYou190]

gregc

I wonder if a book on modeling science would be of interest.

Greg, not sure if you are taking a survey or looking for input.

If you want to survey people, no, this would not interest me. I don't know how many people are like me with smaller layouts built just for fun with one operator.

-Kevin

[kasskaboose]

A well-mainted webpage is of greater value (IMHO). A static book is more likely to sit on a shelf than something folks can quickly check at their leasure.  Are you looking at doing this yourself?  I lack the brain power to contribute, but think that's a wiser option.  I bet there are plenty of engineers or other technicians who can engage.

[tstage]

Personally, I don't think there would be as much interest for a book about the science behind MMRing from a majority of modelers as there would be for a well-maintained website, which can more easily be updated and improved upon.  However, I think that most MRRers would not get all that geeked out about the latter, either.

My ...

Tom

[gregc]

considering various topics over the years, regarding the more technical aspects of the hobby, i wonder if a book on modeling science would be of interest.

i believe it should include the topics below as well as some basic electronics.

i would also include a section on the science behind full-scale railroads, both for the sake of curiousity as well as why aspects of full-scale railroads don't scale

a well maintain web-site (i.e. NMRA.org) could add information left out of after initial publishing, from more than one author.

    - grades
    - vertical easements
    - effective grade of curves

    - tractive force: how many cars should a loco pull
    - wheel resistance

    - wire run voltage drop vs wire gauge
    - feeder locations

    - variations in turnout dimensions
    - curved turnout geometry

    - LEDs
    - BEMF - how motors work

    - how dcc works
    - DCC block detection
    - DCC auto-reversers

    - proprietary inteface

    - more realistic operation based on Newton's Laws

    - prototypical purpose of superelevation on curves