Patent ID: 6533223
Filing Date: 2003-03-18
Classification: A63H

Abstract:
A method for detecting an interruption of an identification response from a transponder device that communicates with a model railroad layout and generating an alarm output condition, comprising the steps of:providing said transponder device (11) for producing said identification response, establishing a communication between said transponder device and said model railroad layout (4), providing at least one transponder detecting device including decoding logic means (9), configuring said decoding logic means to automatically monitor and track said identification response of said transponder device, and to generate said alarm output condition after a predetermined criteria for loss of detection has occurred, and configuring said decoding logic means to detect an interruption of said identification response and to generate said alarm output condition when a derailment or removal of a model vehicle from the railroad layout occurs, or when there is a loss of normal operation of said transponder device.