Patent ID: 8292237

Claim:
A method for creating a standalone detection and power regulation device for a model railroad system comprising: (i) providing a track power source device that conveys applied track control waveforms, (ii) providing a detection power switch connected in series with a control impedance, and in parallel with a detection impedance, (iii) providing a track feed element, (iv) providing an additional control logic device connected to said track power source device and capable of generating timing and control signals, wherein the additional control logic device is connected to the detection power switch through a control link, (v) providing a sample timing and connection device, (vi) providing a voltage detector decision logic device connected with said sample timing and connection device, and configured to detect voltages across said detection impedance, and to compare the voltages to said applied track control waveforms, and (vii) providing a detection output signal device connected with said voltage detector decision logic device for outputting occupancy signals, whereby, said additional control logic device is configured to turn off said detection power switch to allow said voltage detector decision logic device in connection with said detection impedance to perform voltage comparisons, and to communicate detection signals with the detection output signal device.