Sounds like an exciting project Dave!
One thing that I've asked Lionel for and suggested previously on this Forum, is some provision for RANDOMNESS. As far as I know, the built-in macro recording capability of the Legacy base, and even Lionel's LCS lack any such provision, and that's a shame!
To my way of thinking: if you build a layout with multiple routes, passing sidings or hidden staging that has the ability to store and stage trains, adding random selection of trains and routes turns the whole thing into a kind of "mechanical fish tank" that visitors could watch for several minutes without seeing the same train on the same track twice. Code for semi-autonomous operation might make train layouts a fixture in doctors' offices, hotel lobbies, even store windows! When you take into account the ongoing costs of maintenance, a train display would probably cost less than an ACTUAL fish tank!
One thing I am picky about is realistic starting and stopping. Smooth starts and stops are also much easier on rubber tires and gears. So the code should contain provisions for gradual stops and starts, perhaps by sending multiple speed commands. I'm not sure how you're sensing train position, but to make it reliable and repeatable, care has to be taken to make sure the train stops within a staging block, not fouling other routes / trains.
Can't wait to see what comes of your efforts! Please keep us posted (and a video demo would be great!) Thanks for sharing!
