With all the talk about operating model railroads through I-Phones and I-Pads maybe we just need to develop virtual model railroads. This way you can have as many engines and cars and as large a layout as you want. All you need to do is develop software that will simulate everything on a monitor. Sort of like video games and "flight simulator" software. You can even go so far as have everything in 3D. You could even simulate crashes and yet never suffer any damages!
This is of course in jest only.
The next generation of control systems will allow control of every aspect of the model railroad. Gone are the days when you needed to "hit" the Lionel uncoupler button at just the right time! Or get the Lionel operating log car in the right position to "dump" the logs!
Note: I still have these original Lionel accessories stored away. However I prefer my MTH DCS with wireless controller to uncouple the engine and adjust the speed, etc.
