I was curious and searching but couldn't find any. But are there any drop gate bridges where it would open and close in the middle? I assume the biggest challenge would be how to support the bridge in a closed position.
Thanks and happy New Year.
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This[photos] is one version of Jim Barrett's "Drop Gate" section design I roughly disguised as a through plate truss bride. Jim originally did a "how to" article on the item with photos 12-15 years ago in O-gauge magazine. In more recent years he has produced a DVD #11 for sale in Backshop.
Also shown is an upside down photo of the homemade mechanism and wiring. This unit is recycled from an older dismantled layout and is installed on the 072/084 dual track end curves of my small attic layout.
Dewey
What was used to support the middle? So it would be two sections of what you have though they you meet in the middle.
It is only one section hung on a piano hinge from one side if the main layout structure. The hinge provides precise rigidity for rail alignment and the section has spring-loaded transome catches to fasten in the adjustable strike keepers on the other side of the main layout structure.
I have never seen a makeup of one that meets in the middle like an actual prototype lift bridge but assume it is possible with the correct structural components. Rail alignment would likely be difficult side to side and up and down.
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