EP0381594A1 - Remote control device for an electric model railway installation - Google Patents

Remote control device for an electric model railway installation Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0381594A1
EP0381594A1 EP90420039A EP90420039A EP0381594A1 EP 0381594 A1 EP0381594 A1 EP 0381594A1 EP 90420039 A EP90420039 A EP 90420039A EP 90420039 A EP90420039 A EP 90420039A EP 0381594 A1 EP0381594 A1 EP 0381594A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
signal
microcontroller
circuit
radio
micro
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP90420039A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Jean-Pierre Coron
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
JOUEF INDUSTRIES SA
Jouef Ind SA
Original Assignee
JOUEF INDUSTRIES SA
Jouef Ind SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from FR8901565A external-priority patent/FR2642324B1/en
Application filed by JOUEF INDUSTRIES SA, Jouef Ind SA filed Critical JOUEF INDUSTRIES SA
Publication of EP0381594A1 publication Critical patent/EP0381594A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63H—TOYS, e.g. TOPS, DOLLS, HOOPS OR BUILDING BLOCKS
    • A63H30/00—Remote-control arrangements specially adapted for toys, e.g. for toy vehicles
    • A63H30/02—Electrical arrangements
    • A63H30/04—Electrical arrangements using wireless transmission
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63H—TOYS, e.g. TOPS, DOLLS, HOOPS OR BUILDING BLOCKS
    • A63H19/00—Model railways
    • A63H19/24—Electric toy railways; Systems therefor

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a remote control device for an installation of an electric toy on a circuit, for example train and automobile circuit. For the convenience of the presentation, it will be described more particularly in relation to an electric train.
  • such an installation includes a circuit of guide rails and supply of electrical energy for one or more drive units as well as first associated electrotechnical and / or electronic means for transforming the electrical energy of the sector, for regulating, for modulation and supply of this circuit with electrical energy adapted to the on-board motors in the power unit (s) respectively.
  • a transformer to lower the electrical voltage of the sector, a DC rectifier circuit, a rheostat to be able to modify the voltage applied to the circuits, therefore modify the speed of the locomotive, and a changeover relay to be able to change the polarity of the electric current applied to each rail, thus changing the direction of rotation of the locomotive engine.
  • This installation can be completed by one or more "all or nothing" accessories, that is to say, they are or are not powered, such as lights or traffic lights.
  • Second associated electronic means for supplying and controlling these accessories with permanent electrical energy are then essentially constituted by simple switches connected to the output of the rectifier circuit.
  • This installation can also be provided with one or more accessories, such as switches or barriers, comprising an electromagnetic coil to switch from one state to another on each reception of a short duration pulse. It is then advisable to provide third electronic means for generating, controlling and supplying these accessories with electrical pulses, produced inter alia from a capacitor and switches.
  • accessories such as switches or barriers, comprising an electromagnetic coil to switch from one state to another on each reception of a short duration pulse. It is then advisable to provide third electronic means for generating, controlling and supplying these accessories with electrical pulses, produced inter alia from a capacitor and switches.
  • the MAERKLIN Company suggests developing children's awareness and a new interest for ferroviphiles by freeing them from their central console to appreciate their installation from several different points of view thanks to a remote control similar to that used for model aircraft where the receiver is interposed between the transformer and the switch box.
  • the problem of the limited number of transmissible commands due to interference between close frequencies characterizing each transmission channel is resolved by including in the transmitter. and the receiver of the microprocessors then making it possible to use as radio signal a series of binary words constituted by a defined number of bits. Possibly valid in the countryside, this device quickly becomes inoperative in town, in a house and more particularly for an installation of toys on circuit because the surrounding electrical parasites can distort binary words in such a way that one obtains an opposite effect or all other than desired.
  • the presentation DE 3,301,732 of MULTIPLEX discloses a transmitter for remote control of reduced model comprising a microprocessor connected to memories containing pre-recorded instructions and operators of functions. Besides the genesis of binary radio signals, the microprocessor can also be used to configure the transmitter to such or such other type of model: plane, boat or automobile. This possibility appears advantageous in fact only for experienced modellers with computer knowledge and ready to invest in a versatile transmitter, but by no means to the general public interested only in their recently purchased circuit toy.
  • the object of the present invention is a remote control device specifically for a circuit toy installation comprising a radio transmitter and receiver in which the versatility of microprocessors and their control method are better taken advantage of. obtain a device which is even more efficient in this context.
  • a device must first remain effective, that is to say have a sufficient range to allow a significant retreat without forcing the user to any contortions to target a particular point with the transmitter, and this, while remaining reliable whatever the command issued.
  • this device must not interfere with the environment, in particular electrical which would require to comply with binding standards making the product difficult to sell to a wide audience.
  • This device must also remain simple to understand in its use of the fact that it is addressed inter alia to an audience of children. Last but not least, like many other toys, the device according to the invention must be able to be manufactured at a very low cost.
  • a remote control device for an electric toy installation on circuit as described above which control device comprises a portable radio transmitter and a fixed radio receiver.
  • the portable radio transmitter contains a series of switches connected to a voltage source as well as a microcontroller whose input circuits are respectively connected to the switches, which includes means for storing various preset codes and which includes a microprocessor associating with a signal received from a switch toggled by the user expressing his choice an address of the storage means containing a corresponding code, then applying to a output circuit a corresponding coded binary signal.
  • the fixed radio receiver also contains a microcontroller receiving on an input circuit a coded binary signal which it interprets to trigger the first and / or second and / or third means of controlling the installation.
  • the radio transmitter further comprises fourth electronic means amplifying and repackaging the binary coded signal into a transmitted signal less sensitive to the surrounding electrical noise
  • the fixed radio receiver comprises fifth electronic means converting the received signal into a coded binary signal which it applies to the input of its microcontroller.
  • the radio transmitter transmits radio signal only when the user chooses.
  • a radioelectric signal emitted by the radio transmitter is essentially constituted of a repetition of a binary word formed, according to a coded signal associated with the choice of the user, of a series of presences or absences of identical packets of electrical pulses.
  • the fourth electronic means of the transmitter amplifying and repackaging the binary signal coded into a transmitted signal comprise a fixed frequency oscillator including an element acting as antenna and which is engaged, respectively stopped, by the application, respectively the decrease, of a voltage coded on its input terminal applied by the output circuit of the microcontroller.
  • the fifth electronic means of the fixed radio receiver subsequently comprise an oscillator the frequency of the output signal of which is modulated by the radioelectric signals received on an antenna, and a demodulator-decoder comprising a reproducing frequency comparator a coded signal from the output signal received from the oscillator, which coded signal is applied to one of the input circuits of a microcontroller.
  • the means for controlling an accessory comprise one or more electronic switches connected between the accessory and the ground, and directly controlled by an output circuit of the microcontroller.
  • the first electronic means for modulating the electrical energy of the rail circuit comprise a modulator whose control door is connected to at least two resistors each connected to a voltage source through an electronic switch which is directly controlled by an output circuit of the microcontroller.
  • At least one of the electronic switches is in the form of a Darlington arrangement of transistors.
  • the latter modifies, for a signal corresponding to a choice of acceleration, the state of the switches associated with the resistors in order to increase the control voltage by one step. the input of the modulator, until the supply of all the resistors.
  • the latter - modifies the state of the switches to reduce the control voltage at the input of the modulator by one step - tests if the last switch is open - If the previous test is positive, commands the tilting of the reversing means causing a stop, with possible delay, then a change of direction of the powerplant.
  • Another advantageous method of controlling the micro-controller of the radio transmitter, during its self-initialization following the first power-up, is that the micro-controller waits until a first switch is toggled by the user, then writes into the storage means a family of codes pre-recorded as a function of this first toggle switch.
  • Another advantageous method of controlling the micro-controller of the radio receiver, during the self-initialization of the micro-controller following the first power-up, is that the micro-controller waits for the reception of a first signal. radio-electric, then writes into the storage means the family of pre-recorded codes corresponding to this first signal.
  • the microcontroller of the radio transmitter and that in the fixed radio receiver are each produced by the same topography of semiconductors, the connection to the mounting of one or more input terminals to one or more reference potentials determining the "transmitter micro-controller” or “receiver micro-controller” function taken up by the topography.
  • a portion of rail circuit 600 on which a power train runs in this case a locomotive 610. If it were a car circuit, the power train would be the automobile itself.
  • two accessories reacting to electrical pulses 630 namely a level crossing and a switch.
  • This portion of the circuit also includes an "all or nothing" type accessory, in this case a lighting lamp or a signaling light 620.
  • This installation is powered by a block 460 in which the various are generated, regulated and controlled. electrical energy required for installation.
  • the remote control device for this power supply unit 460 comprises on the one hand a portable radio transmitter 400 and on the other hand a fixed radio receiver 450 whose outputs are connected to the control means of the power supply unit 460
  • the fixed radio receiver 450 and this power supply unit 460 are inside the same housing.
  • the power supply unit 460 firstly comprises a circuit 500 for transforming the mains electric current into low voltage direct current.
  • this circuit 500 includes a transformer lowering the mains voltage to around 18 V followed by a diode rectifier bridge delivering this same voltage but continuously.
  • Two electronic regulators also make it possible to obtain voltages of 12 and 5 V respectively from this first voltage of 18 V.
  • a second circuit of the block 460 provided for supplying the rails 600 consists of a modulator 312 connected on the one hand to the 18 V of the block 500 and on the other hand to the first input of a change-over relay 320 of which the other input is connected to ground. Both outputs of this changeover relay 320 are respectively connected to each of the two rails of circuit 600.
  • the modulator 312 delivers at its output s a direct voltage between 0 and 14 V depending on the control voltage present at gate i.
  • This gate i is connected to four resistors 276 in parallel which are respectively connected on the other hand to switches each having the form of a Darlington mounting of transistors.
  • This gate i is moreover directly connected to a fifth switch, still in the form of a transistor Darlington circuit.
  • These five assemblies are respectively controlled by five independent output circuits of a micro-controller 270 ′ belonging to the fixed radio receiver 450 described below.
  • a micro-controller 270 ′ belonging to the fixed radio receiver 450 described below.
  • the change-over relay 320 makes it possible to modify the polarity between the two rails according to the signal applied to its control door i ′.
  • a mechanical, not electronic, relay is preferred.
  • the control door i ′ is connected to a switch in the form of a Darlington circuit of transistors itself controlled by a sixth output circuit of the micro-controller 270 ′ belonging to the radio receiver 450.
  • a third circuit of block 460 provided for supplying accessories 620 operating in "all or nothing" consists of a current limiting circuit 314 connected on the one hand to the 12 V of block 500 and on the other hand to the first terminal of accessory 620, the second terminal being connected to earth through a switch identical to the previous one, i.e. a Darlington mounting of transistors directly controlled by an output circuit of the receiver's 270 ′ microcontroller radio 450.
  • the advantage of having this switch close to earth is that a low control voltage is enough to switch it.
  • the circuit 314 may include an electronic component varying its impedance as a function of the difference between the potential at the output and the potential present at a control gate.
  • a resistance of low ohmic value is then placed behind this electronic component but before the accessory 620 and an electrical connection reports the potential present at the output of this resistance to the control door of the electronic component.
  • the difference between the potential at the output and that at the control gate is equal to the potential drop created by the current flowing through the resistor therefore is representative of the current intensity continuous passing through the accessory. So if this intensity tends to become too strong for example due to a short circuit of the accessory 620, the electronic element automatically increases its impedance to limit the intensity.
  • the electronic component is marketed by THOMSON under the reference LN 317.
  • a fourth circuit of block 460 provided for supplying accessories 630 operating by pulses comprises a circuit 314 of current limitation similar to that described previously connected on the one hand to the 18 V of block 500 and on the other hand to the first terminals of each accessories 630.
  • a high-value capacitor 318 is connected on the one hand to the output of circuit 314 and on the other hand to ground.
  • all the second terminals of the accessories 630 are respectively connected to switches, always in the form of Darlington assemblies of transistors, which assemblies are combined in a second lower casing 275.
  • each accessory 630 comprising two distinct circuits: one for engaging, the other for releasing, it is advisable to provide two switches for each accessory.
  • the capacitor 318 is provided for storing an electrical charge sufficient to generate a brief but strong pulse, of the order of an ampere, when a switch is closed while circuit 314 does not allow that a maximum intensity of the order of 300 milli-amps.
  • the capacitor 318 can only charge when all of the accessories switches 630 are open and a load current controlled by the circuit 314 can flow.
  • This transmitter comprises a microcontroller 270, that is to say an electronic component including in a same housing a microprocessor, also called central unit, in communication by means of an internal data transfer line called "bus" with a ROM read-only memory in which the data relating to the action procedures (or microprocessor programs) are stored, a random access memory RAM in which the data necessary for the action steps can be written and then read again, as well as several series of buffer circuits entry and / or exit according to the assignments assigned by the program.
  • This microcontroller is supplied with 5 V from a battery 50 by means of a voltage adjustment and regulation circuit 55.
  • Two input circuits numbered 27 and 28 are connected to ground and to circuit 55 delivering 5 V respectively. Seven of the input buffer circuits are respectively connected to switches “1" - "5", “+” and “-”, these all being connected to a circuit 60 delivering from the battery 50 a voltage compatible with these input circuits. Furthermore, one of the output buffer circuits is connected to the input of a fixed frequency oscillator circuit 25 including an element acting as an antenna and another element allowing the adjustment of this frequency.
  • this oscillator circuit can be composed on the one hand of a simple transistor whose base constitutes the input of the circuit, whose emitter is connected to earth and whose collector is connected to the battery 50 through a damping winding and on the other hand an oscillating circuit, such as a parallel mounting of capacitors and a winding acting antenna, connected between the collector and the base of the transistor.
  • the corresponding fixed radio receiver 450 comprises a first oscillator 215 whose frequency of the output signal (c) is modulated by the radio signals (b) received on an antenna 200b.
  • this antenna can also be the "plus" rail of the rail circuit 600.
  • This output signal (c) is applied to the input of a demodulator-decoder circuit 225 comprising a frequency comparator whose resulting signal (a ) is applied to one of the input circuits of a 270 ′ microcontroller.
  • this microcontroller comprises in a same housing a microprocessor connected by an internal "bus" line to a ROM read only memory for the storage of information relating to the action sequences of the microprocessor, to a memory RAM in which can be written and then re-read information necessary during the action of the microprocessor, the input buffer circuit connected to the demodulator 225 as well as several output buffer circuits which are respectively connected to the switches 275 cited during the description of the power supply unit 460. Finally, two input circuits 27 and 28 are connected to the 5 V and to the ground respectively. The circuits 215 and 225 are supplied with 12 V and the microcontroller 270 ′ with 5 V from the circuit 500 of the block 460.
  • the microcontrollers present in the transmitter and the receiver can be of a known type, such as the model EF68HC marketed by the Company THOMSON.
  • consideration can be given to designing a topography of semiconductors having the same functions. Indeed, given the similarity of the architecture of the two microcontrollers, and that the only differences essentially lie in the fairly simple operation established by the procedures pre-written in the ROM memories, it is conceivable to design a single and single topography intended to be installed indifferently in the transmitter or the receiver, the particular connection of one or two entry doors 27, 28 making that only the part of the necessary operating procedure is implemented.
  • the remote control device operates as follows.
  • the microcontroller 270 When a battery 50 is installed in the radio transmitter 400, the microcontroller 270 first enters an initialization procedure which it reads in the ROM memory. During this procedure, its microprocessor tests the state of the input circuits 27 and 28 and finds that an "emitter” role has been assigned to it during its installation. This microprocessor then waits until one of the keys "1" - "5", "+” or "-” is pressed by the user for the first time. Depending on the key pressed, the microprocessor then writes into RAM the corresponding family of preset codes. In other words, the microcontroller initially has seven families of codes available in its ROM memory so as to use only one later in its RAM memory. This authorizes the use of another portable radio transmitter 400 which can then be used in the vicinity (taking care however to choose another code or by pressing for the first time on another switch).
  • the radio transmitter 400 is ready for use.
  • the micro-processor of the micro-controller 270 notices that the corresponding input buffer circuit has changed state, it associates with this received signal an address of the random access memory RAM and it applies the code corresponding to the output circuit which delivers a coded signal (a) to the input of oscillator 25.
  • this signal (a) can be a succession of a word composed of a series of absences or the presence of slots of the order of 5 V.
  • the first part of the word can characterize the family of codes used while the second part rather characterizes the key actually pressed.
  • a half-word can consist of a succession of eight slots, one of which is repeated, the position of this doubled slot with respect to the others being characteristic of the information: family of codes, key.
  • this oscillator 25 starts as soon as its front door is brought to a sufficient potential and stops as soon as its front door is brought back to a potential close to zero and on the other hand that this oscillator operates at a high frequency markedly higher than that of the coded signal (a)
  • this oscillator 25 emits a radioelectric signal (b) composed of a sequence of the presence or absence of identical packets of pulses, each of these packets corresponding to a niche.
  • the radio signal (b) reproduces the coded signal (a) with the difference that the slots are now replaced by high frequency pulse packets.
  • This radioelectric signal (b) is received by an antenna 200b at the input of the oscillator 215 of which it alters the oscillation frequency. For example, this oscillator goes from a normal frequency of 4 Mhz to a second frequency of 2 Mhz when receiving pulse packets.
  • the frequency modulated signal (c) is then applied to a demodulator-decoder comprising a frequency comparator and delivering a voltage of 5 V for the normal frequency and 0 V for the other which, at the output, reconstitutes the signal (a) previously generated in the radio transmitter 400.
  • This signal (a) is then applied to the input of the microcontroller 270 ′.
  • the central console When the central console is powered up for the first time, and therefore the 270 ′ microcontroller, it also first entered a self-initialization procedure read from its ROM memory. During this procedure, its microprocessor first tested the state of its doors 27 and 28 to find that a "receiver" role was assigned to it during its installation. Then, this microprocessor waits for the reception of a first signal to read only the first characteristic part of the family of codes established in the transmitter and that it writes for its part identically in its RAM. with the associated key codes. Once this self-initialization phase has been completed, the following signals (a) will be interpreted to recognize the corresponding key pressed. During this interpretation, tests can be carried out as to the veracity of a received signal.
  • a test may consist in verifying that a slot present in the signal (a) transmitted by the demodulator-decoder 225 has a minimum duration.
  • the following signal (a) is read by the micro-processor of the micro-controller 270 ′ which then compares it to the codes previously recorded in the storage means (such as RAM). If no code corresponds to the second half-word received, the microprocessor concludes that a parasite is present and rejects it, that is to say that it awaits a new reception. If, on the other hand, the second received half-word resembles one of the predetermined codes, the microprocessor concludes that such or such other key of the radio transmitter is pressed. He can then act according to the user's orders.
  • the microcontroller 270 ′ applies either a pulse or a state of saturation to the output terminal linked to the corresponding switch of the lower housing 275.
  • the associated accessory is then tilted in the usual way.
  • the 270 ′ microcontroller If the 270 ′ microcontroller understands that the "+" key is pressed, it modifies the state of the switches contained in the upper case 275 to increase by a discrete value, that is to say by a step, the control voltage appearing at gate i of the modulator 312 which therefore increases by a notch the voltage applied to the rail network therefore the speed of the locomotive. If after a latency time fixed at 8/10 of a second for example, the word corresponding to the "+" key is still present at the input of the 270 ′ microcontroller, the latter understands that it must continue the accelerate and change the state of the switches until all five doors are in state 1. This latency has been set so that full acceleration of the locomotive takes place in five seconds.
  • the microcontroller 270 ′ modifies the state of the switches contained in the upper casing 275 to decrease the control voltage on the door i by a discrete value .
  • the 270 ′ microcontroller tests whether the latter tilted door is not also the first in the series corresponding to zero speed. In this case, the persistence of the word corresponding to the "-" key at the input of the microcontroller 270 ′ means that a reversal of the direction of movement of the locomotive must be carried out and the corresponding door at the input i ′ of the changeover relay 320 is itself changed.
  • the number of circuits present in this device is reduced while the shape taken by the radio signal promotes immunity from transmission to environmental parasites.
  • this remote control device allows a user to move around its miniature train installation while continuing to transmit orders to the power plant described in block 460 above.
  • this device above all arouses the interest of many people who can now appreciate and admire their complex installation in every detail, and this at low cost.
  • this device now allows the realization of installations no longer confined to a single room, but which can extend beyond an entire apartment or outside, thereby increasing the pleasure.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Selective Calling Equipment (AREA)
  • Toys (AREA)

Abstract

The remote control device for an electric model railway installation comprises, on the one hand, a radio transmitter (400) transmitting radio signals (b) which differ according to the user's selection, and on the other hand, a stationary radio receiver (450) detecting these radio signals which it transmits to electronic means (270) which interpret these signals in order to trigger control means (275). …<??>In particular, the radio signal (b) transmitted by the radio transmitter consists essentially of the repetition of a word built up of a sequence of presences or absences of identical packets of electrical pulses, the said word being built up according to a coded signal (a) associated with the user's selection. …<IMAGE>…

Description

La présente invention est relative à un dispositif de commande à distance pour une installation de jouet électrique sur circuit, par exemple train et circuit automobile. Pour la commodité de l'exposé, elle sera décrite plus particulièrement en relation avec un train électrique.The present invention relates to a remote control device for an installation of an electric toy on a circuit, for example train and automobile circuit. For the convenience of the presentation, it will be described more particularly in relation to an electric train.

Pour mémoire, une telle installation comprend un circuit de rails de guidage et d'apport en énergie électrique pour une ou plusieurs motrices ainsi que des premiers moyens électrotechniques et/ou électroniques associés de transformation de l'énergie électrique du secteur, de régulation, de modulation et d'alimentation de ce circuit en énergie électrique adaptée aux moteurs embarqués dans la ou les motrices respectivement. Par exemple, pour des locomotives comprenant un moteur à courant continu, on prévoit, à la suite, un transformateur pour abaisser la tension électrique du secteur, un circuit redresseur en courant continu, un rhéostat pour pouvoir modifier la tension appliquée aux circuits, donc modifier la vitesse de la locomotive, et un relais inverseur pour pouvoir changer la polarité du courant électrique appliquée à chaque rail, donc changer le sens de rotation du moteur de la locomotive.As a reminder, such an installation includes a circuit of guide rails and supply of electrical energy for one or more drive units as well as first associated electrotechnical and / or electronic means for transforming the electrical energy of the sector, for regulating, for modulation and supply of this circuit with electrical energy adapted to the on-board motors in the power unit (s) respectively. For example, for locomotives comprising a DC motor, there is provided, thereafter, a transformer to lower the electrical voltage of the sector, a DC rectifier circuit, a rheostat to be able to modify the voltage applied to the circuits, therefore modify the speed of the locomotive, and a changeover relay to be able to change the polarity of the electric current applied to each rail, thus changing the direction of rotation of the locomotive engine.

Cette installation peut être complétée par un ou plusieurs accessoires de type "tout ou rien", c'est-à-dire qu'ils sont ou ne sont pas alimentés, comme par exemple des éclairages ou des feux de signalisation. Des seconds moyens électroniques associés d'alimentation et de contrôle de ces accessoires en énergie électrique permanente sont alors essentiellement constitués par de simples interrupteurs reliés à la sortie du circuit redresseur.This installation can be completed by one or more "all or nothing" accessories, that is to say, they are or are not powered, such as lights or traffic lights. Second associated electronic means for supplying and controlling these accessories with permanent electrical energy are then essentially constituted by simple switches connected to the output of the rectifier circuit.

Cette installation peut de plus être munie d'un ou plusieurs accessoires, tels qu'aiguillages ou barrières, comprenant une bobine électromagnétique pour basculer d'un état à un autre à chaque réception d'une impulsion de courte durée. Il convient alors de prévoir des troisièmes moyens électroniques de génération, de contrôle et d'alimentation de ces accessoires en impulsions électriques, réalisés entre autre à partir d'un condensateur et d'interrupteurs.This installation can also be provided with one or more accessories, such as switches or barriers, comprising an electromagnetic coil to switch from one state to another on each reception of a short duration pulse. It is then advisable to provide third electronic means for generating, controlling and supplying these accessories with electrical pulses, produced inter alia from a capacitor and switches.

Outre l'attrait particulier pour les ferroviphiles de certains modèles sophistiqués en tant que maquette, l'intérêt majeur de ces installations de trains miniatures réside dans la gestion de leur bon fonctionnement. Des progrès réguliers ont ainsi été apportés dans les dispositifs de commande de telles installations.In addition to the particular attraction for ferroviphiles of certain sophisticated models as models, the major interest of these model train installations lies in the management of their proper functioning. Regular progress has thus been made in the control devices of such installations.

Tel que décrit dans l'exposé DE 3 309 668 de ROTH, il est actuellement possible de contrôler simultanément à partir d'une seule console les différents déplacements d'une quinzaine de locomotives ainsi que les états d'une centaine d'accessoires tout en mémorisant les diverses actions pour les répéter et en surveillant la consommation électrique par rapport à un maximum. Pour ce, des moyens informatiques logés dans la console interprètent les commandes directement tapées sur le clavier et génèrent des ordres transcris sous la forme de signaux digitaux transitant dans le circuit de rail, ce qui permet d'éliminer les anciens réseaux câblés disgracieux.As described in the presentation DE 3,309,668 of ROTH, it is currently possible to simultaneously control from a single console the various displacements of about fifteen locomotives as well as the states of a hundred accessories while memorizing the various actions to repeat them and monitoring the power consumption compared to a maximum. For this, IT resources housed in the console interpret commands directly typed on the keyboard and generate transcribed orders in the form of digital signals passing through the rail circuit, which eliminates the old unsightly cable networks.

Toutefois, même avec une telle installation aussi onéreuse de par sa complexité, l'utilisateur (enfant ou ferroviphile) doit se tenir en permanence devant la console de commande centrale, et ne peut donc avoir qu'une vue partielle de son réseau ce qui peut être gênant lors de la prise de décision rapide, et ce qui conduit beaucoup plus fréquemment à un certain ennui après une courte période. A l'inverse, une installation de train miniature devant être conduite à partir de plusieurs postes de commande pose d'autres problèmes, plus sérieux, du fait de l'impossibilité matérielle d'intervenir sur une autre console lorsque l'on est situé présentement à l'opposé de l'installation.However, even with such an installation that is so expensive due to its complexity, the user (child or railroad worker) must remain permanently in front of the central control console, and can therefore only have a partial view of his network, which can be troublesome when making quick decisions, and this much more frequently leads to some boredom after a short time. Conversely, a miniature train installation to be operated from several control stations poses other, more serious problems, due to the physical impossibility of intervening on another console when one is presently located. opposite to the installation.

Dans l'exposé DE 2 741 154, la Société MAERKLIN suggère de développer l'éveil des enfants et un nouvel intérêt des ferroviphiles en les libérant de leur console centrale pour apprécier leur installation de plusieurs points de vues différents grâce à une télécommande analogue à celle utilisée pour les modèles réduits d'avion dont le récepteur est intercalé entre le transformateur et le boîtier d'interrupteurs.In the presentation DE 2,741,154, the MAERKLIN Company suggests developing children's awareness and a new interest for ferroviphiles by freeing them from their central console to appreciate their installation from several different points of view thanks to a remote control similar to that used for model aircraft where the receiver is interposed between the transformer and the switch box.

Toutefois, comme décrit dans la revue RADIO MENTOR de juin 1964 en page 488, une telle télécommande est normalement prévue pour émettre en permanence afin de contrôler un nombre réduit de variables continues ou "tout ou rien". Pour ce, il faut d'abord obtenir une autorisation, voire une licence, de l'Office National des Télécommunications avant d'acquérir un matériel également onéreux de par sa complexité. Puis il convient d'adapter le récepteur au boîtier d'interrupteurs pour mettre en oeuvre les différentes possibilités de l'émetteur, ce qui est nullement évident.However, as described in the RADIO MENTOR review of June 1964 on page 488, such a remote control is normally provided to emit permanently in order to control a reduced number of continuous variables or "all or nothing". For this, you must first obtain an authorization, or even a license, from the National Telecommunications Office before acquiring equipment that is also expensive because of its complexity. Then it is necessary to adapt the receiver to the switch box to implement the different possibilities of the transmitter, which is by no means obvious.

Dans le dispositif de télécommande pour modèle réduit en général, décrit dans l'exposé FR 2 380 048 de KUBRICK, on résoud le problème du nombre limité de commandes transmissibles dû aux interférences entre fréquences proches caractérisant chaque canal de transmission en incluant dans l'émetteur et le récepteur des micro-­processeurs permettant alors d'utiliser comme signal radio une suite de mots binaires constituée par un nombre défini de bits. Eventuellement valable à la campagne, ce dispositif devient rapidement inopérant en ville, dans une maison et plus particulièrement pour une installation de jouets sur circuit car les parasites électriques environnants peuvent dénaturer les mots binaires de telle manière que l'on obtient un effet inverse ou tout autre que désiré.In the remote control device for a reduced model in general, described in the presentation FR 2 380 048 from KUBRICK, the problem of the limited number of transmissible commands due to interference between close frequencies characterizing each transmission channel is resolved by including in the transmitter. and the receiver of the microprocessors then making it possible to use as radio signal a series of binary words constituted by a defined number of bits. Possibly valid in the countryside, this device quickly becomes inoperative in town, in a house and more particularly for an installation of toys on circuit because the surrounding electrical parasites can distort binary words in such a way that one obtains an opposite effect or all other than desired.

L'exposé DE 3 301 732 de MULTIPLEX divulgue un émetteur pour télécommande de modèle réduit comprenant un micro-processeur relié à des mémoires contenant des instructions pré-enregistrées et des opérateurs de fonctions. Outre la genèse de signaux radio binaire, le micro-processeur peut aussi être utilisé pour configurer l'émetteur à tel ou tel autre type de modèle réduit : avion, bateau ou automobile. Cette possibilité n'apparait avantageuse en fait que pour des modélistes avertis ayant de plus des connaissances informatiques et prêts à investir dans un émetteur polyvalent, mais nullement au grand public intéressé seulement à son jouet sur circuit acheté tout récemment.The presentation DE 3,301,732 of MULTIPLEX discloses a transmitter for remote control of reduced model comprising a microprocessor connected to memories containing pre-recorded instructions and operators of functions. Besides the genesis of binary radio signals, the microprocessor can also be used to configure the transmitter to such or such other type of model: plane, boat or automobile. This possibility appears advantageous in fact only for experienced modellers with computer knowledge and ready to invest in a versatile transmitter, but by no means to the general public interested only in their recently purchased circuit toy.

Le but de la présente invention est un dispositif de commande à distance spécifiquement pour une installation de jouet sur circuit comprenant un émetteur et un récepteur radio dans lesquels sont mieux mis à profit la polyvalence de micro-processeurs et de leur procédé de commande afin d'obtenir un dispositif qui soit encore plus performant dans ce contexte. Bien évidemment, un tel dispositif doit d'abord rester efficace, c'est-à-dire avoir une portée suffisante pour permettre un recul appréciable sans pour autant obliger l'utilisateur à de quelconques contorsions pour viser un point particulier avec l'émetteur, et ce, tout en restant fiable quelle que soit la commande émise. De plus, ce dispositif ne doit pas interférer avec l'environnement, notamment électrique qui exigerait de se plier à des normes contraignantes rendant le produit peu vendable auprès d'un large public. Ce dispositif doit également rester simple à comprendre dans son utilisation du fait qu'il s'adresse entre autre à un public d'enfants. Enfin et surtout, comme de nombreux autres jouets, le dispositif selon l'invention doit pouvoir être fabriqué à un très faible coût.The object of the present invention is a remote control device specifically for a circuit toy installation comprising a radio transmitter and receiver in which the versatility of microprocessors and their control method are better taken advantage of. obtain a device which is even more efficient in this context. Obviously, such a device must first remain effective, that is to say have a sufficient range to allow a significant retreat without forcing the user to any contortions to target a particular point with the transmitter, and this, while remaining reliable whatever the command issued. In addition, this device must not interfere with the environment, in particular electrical which would require to comply with binding standards making the product difficult to sell to a wide audience. This device must also remain simple to understand in its use of the fact that it is addressed inter alia to an audience of children. Last but not least, like many other toys, the device according to the invention must be able to be manufactured at a very low cost.

Ces buts sont atteints grâce à un dispositif de commande à distance pour une installation de jouet électrique sur circuit telle que décrite précédemment, lequel dispositif de commande comprend un émetteur-radio portatif et un récepteur-radio fixe. L'émetteur-radio portatif contient une suite d'interrupteurs reliée à une source de tension ainsi qu'un micro-contrôleur dont les circuits d'entrée sont respectivement reliés aux interrupteurs, qui inclut des moyens de stockage de différents codes préétablis et qui inclut un micro-processeur associant à un signal reçu d'un interrupteur basculé par l'utilisateur exprimant son choix une adresse des moyens de stockage contenant un code correspondant, puis appliquant sur un circuit de sortie un signal binaire codé correspondant. Le récepteur-radio fixe contient également un micro-­contrôleur recevant sur un circuit d'entrée un signal binaire codé qu'il interprète pour déclencher les premiers et/ou second et/ou troisième moyens de contrôle de l'installation. Plus particulièrement, l'émetteur-radio comprend de plus des quatrième moyens électroniques amplifiant et reconditionnant le signal binaire codé en un signal émis moins sensible aux parasites électriques environnants, et le récepteur-radio fixe comprend des cinquième moyens électroniques convertissant le signal reçu en un signal binaire codé qu'il applique à l'entrée de son micro-­contrôleur.These goals are achieved by a remote control device for an electric toy installation on circuit as described above, which control device comprises a portable radio transmitter and a fixed radio receiver. The portable radio transmitter contains a series of switches connected to a voltage source as well as a microcontroller whose input circuits are respectively connected to the switches, which includes means for storing various preset codes and which includes a microprocessor associating with a signal received from a switch toggled by the user expressing his choice an address of the storage means containing a corresponding code, then applying to a output circuit a corresponding coded binary signal. The fixed radio receiver also contains a microcontroller receiving on an input circuit a coded binary signal which it interprets to trigger the first and / or second and / or third means of controlling the installation. More particularly, the radio transmitter further comprises fourth electronic means amplifying and repackaging the binary coded signal into a transmitted signal less sensitive to the surrounding electrical noise, and the fixed radio receiver comprises fifth electronic means converting the received signal into a coded binary signal which it applies to the input of its microcontroller.

Selon une première caractéristique, l'émetteur-radio n'émet de signal radio-électrique que lors d'un choix de l'utilisateur.According to a first characteristic, the radio transmitter transmits radio signal only when the user chooses.

Selon une autre caractéristique, un signal radio-­électrique émis par l'émetteur-radio est essentiellement constitué d'une répétition d'un mot binaire formé, selon un signal codé associé au choix de l'utilisateur, d'une suite de présences ou d'absences de paquets identiques d'impulsions électriques.According to another characteristic, a radioelectric signal emitted by the radio transmitter is essentially constituted of a repetition of a binary word formed, according to a coded signal associated with the choice of the user, of a series of presences or absences of identical packets of electrical pulses.

De préférence alors, les quatrième moyens électroniques de l'émetteur amplifiant et reconditionnant le signal binaire codé en un signal émis comprennent un oscillateur à fréquence fixe incluant un élément faisant office d'antenne et qui est enclenché, respectivement arrêté, par l'application, respectivement la diminution, d'une tension codé sur sa borne d'entrée appliquée par le circuit de sortie du micro-contrôleur.Preferably then, the fourth electronic means of the transmitter amplifying and repackaging the binary signal coded into a transmitted signal comprise a fixed frequency oscillator including an element acting as antenna and which is engaged, respectively stopped, by the application, respectively the decrease, of a voltage coded on its input terminal applied by the output circuit of the microcontroller.

De préférence aussi, les cinquième moyens électroniques du récepteur-radio fixe comprennent à la suite un oscillateur dont la fréquence du signal de sortie est modulée par les signaux radio-­électriques reçus sur une antenne, et un démodulateur-décodeur comprenant un comparateur de fréquences restituant un signal codé à partir du signal de sortie reçu de l'oscillateur, lequel signal codé est appliqué à l'un des circuits d'entrée d'un micro-­contrôleur.Preferably also, the fifth electronic means of the fixed radio receiver subsequently comprise an oscillator the frequency of the output signal of which is modulated by the radioelectric signals received on an antenna, and a demodulator-decoder comprising a reproducing frequency comparator a coded signal from the output signal received from the oscillator, which coded signal is applied to one of the input circuits of a microcontroller.

Selon une autre caractéristique, les moyens de contrôle d'un accessoire comprennent un ou plusieurs interrupteurs électroniques branchés entre l'accessoire et la masse, et directement commandé par un circuit de sortie du micro-contrôleur.According to another characteristic, the means for controlling an accessory comprise one or more electronic switches connected between the accessory and the ground, and directly controlled by an output circuit of the microcontroller.

Selon une autre caractéristique, les premiers moyens électronique de modulation de l'énergie électrique du circuit de rails comprennent un modulateur dont la porte de commande est reliée à au moins deux résistances chacune branchées à une source de tension au travers d'un interrupteur électronique qui est lui commandé directement par un circuit de sortie du micro-contrôleur.According to another characteristic, the first electronic means for modulating the electrical energy of the rail circuit comprise a modulator whose control door is connected to at least two resistors each connected to a voltage source through an electronic switch which is directly controlled by an output circuit of the microcontroller.

Avantageusement, au moins l'un des interrupteurs électroniques se présente sous la forme d'un montage en Darlington de transistors.Advantageously, at least one of the electronic switches is in the form of a Darlington arrangement of transistors.

Selon un procédé avantageux de commande du micro-­contrôleur du récepteur, celui-ci modifie, pour un signal correspondant à un choix d'accélération, l'état des interrupteurs associés aux résistances afin d'augmenter d'un échelon la tension de commande à l'entrée du modulateur, et ce jusqu'à l'alimentation de toutes les résistances.According to an advantageous method of controlling the microcontroller of the receiver, the latter modifies, for a signal corresponding to a choice of acceleration, the state of the switches associated with the resistors in order to increase the control voltage by one step. the input of the modulator, until the supply of all the resistors.

Selon un autre procédé avantageux de commande du micro-contrôleur du récepteur lors de la réception d'un signal correspondant à un choix de décélération, celui-ci
- modifie l'état des interrupteurs pour réduire d'un échelon la tension de commande à l'entrée du modulateur
- teste si le dernier interrupteur est ouvert
- si le test précédent est positif, commande le basculement des moyens d'inversion provoquant un arrêt, avec temporisation éventuelle, puis un changement de direction de la motrice.According to another advantageous method of controlling the microcontroller of the receiver upon reception of a signal corresponding to a choice of deceleration, the latter
- modifies the state of the switches to reduce the control voltage at the input of the modulator by one step
- tests if the last switch is open
- If the previous test is positive, commands the tilting of the reversing means causing a stop, with possible delay, then a change of direction of the powerplant.

Un autre procédé avantageux de commande du micro-­contrôleur de l'émetteur-radio, lors de son auto-initialisation suite à la première mise sous tension, consiste à ce que le micro-­contrôleur attende qu'un premier interrupteur soit basculé par l'utilisateur, puis écrive dans les moyens de stockage une famille de codes pré-enregistrée en fonction de ce premier interrupteur basculé.Another advantageous method of controlling the micro-controller of the radio transmitter, during its self-initialization following the first power-up, is that the micro-controller waits until a first switch is toggled by the user, then writes into the storage means a family of codes pre-recorded as a function of this first toggle switch.

Un autre procédé avantageux de commande du micro-­contrôleur du récepteur-radio, lors de l'auto-initialisation du micro-contrôleur suite à la première mise sous tension, consiste à ce que le micro-contrôleur attende la réception d'un premier signal radio-électrique, puis écrive dans les moyens de stockage la famille de codes pré-enregistrée correspondant à ce premier signal.Another advantageous method of controlling the micro-controller of the radio receiver, during the self-initialization of the micro-controller following the first power-up, is that the micro-controller waits for the reception of a first signal. radio-electric, then writes into the storage means the family of pre-recorded codes corresponding to this first signal.

Selon une autre caractéristique avantageuse, le micro-­contrôleur de l'émetteur-radio et celui dans le récepteur-radio fixe sont chacun réalisés par une même topographie de semi-­conducteurs, le branchement au montage d'une ou de plusieurs bornes d'entrée à un ou plusieurs potentiels de référence déterminant la fonction "micro-contrôleur d'émetteur" ou "micro-contrôleur de récepteur" prise par la topographie.According to another advantageous characteristic, the microcontroller of the radio transmitter and that in the fixed radio receiver are each produced by the same topography of semiconductors, the connection to the mounting of one or more input terminals to one or more reference potentials determining the "transmitter micro-controller" or "receiver micro-controller" function taken up by the topography.

L'invention est décrite ci-après de façon plus détaillée à l'aide d'un exemple d'exécution sans caractère limitatif appliqué à un train électrique, et illustrée par la figure unique annexée représentant un schéma de principe du dispositif.The invention is described below in more detail with the aid of an exemplary embodiment without limitation applied to an electric train, and illustrated by the single appended figure representing a block diagram of the device.

Dans la partie inférieure de la figure est illustrée de manière schématique une portion de circuit de rail 600 sur laquelle roule une motrice, en l'occurrence une locomotive 610. S'il s'agissait d'un circuit automobile, la motrice serait l'automobile elle-même. Dans cette portion de circuit sont inclus deux accessoires réagissant à des impulsions électriques 630 à savoir un passage à niveaux et un aiguillage. Cette portion de circuit comprend également un accessoire de type "tout ou rien", en l'occurrence une lampe d'éclairage ou un feu de signalisation 620. Cette installation est alimentée par un bloc 460 dans lequel sont générées, régulées et contrôlées les différentes énergies électriques nécessaires à l'installation. Le dispositif de commande à distance de ce bloc d'alimentation 460 comporte d'une part un émetteur-radio portatif 400 et d'autre part un récepteur-radio fixe 450 dont les sorties sont reliées aux moyens de contrôle du bloc d'alimentation 460. Dans la pratique, le récepteur-radio fixe 450 et ce bloc d'alimentation 460 sont à l'intérieur d'un même boîtier.In the lower part of the figure is shown schematically a portion of rail circuit 600 on which a power train runs, in this case a locomotive 610. If it were a car circuit, the power train would be the automobile itself. In this portion of the circuit are included two accessories reacting to electrical pulses 630, namely a level crossing and a switch. This portion of the circuit also includes an "all or nothing" type accessory, in this case a lighting lamp or a signaling light 620. This installation is powered by a block 460 in which the various are generated, regulated and controlled. electrical energy required for installation. The remote control device for this power supply unit 460 comprises on the one hand a portable radio transmitter 400 and on the other hand a fixed radio receiver 450 whose outputs are connected to the control means of the power supply unit 460 In practice, the fixed radio receiver 450 and this power supply unit 460 are inside the same housing.

Le bloc d'alimentation 460 comprend en premier un circuit 500 de transformation du courant électrique secteur en courant continu basse tension. De manière habituelle, ce circuit 500 inclut un transformateur abaissant la tension secteur à environ 18 V suivit d'un pont redresseur à diodes délivrant cette même tension mais en continu. Deux régulateurs électroniques permettent d'obtenir également des tensions de 12 et de 5 V respectivement à partir de cette première tension de 18 V.The power supply unit 460 firstly comprises a circuit 500 for transforming the mains electric current into low voltage direct current. Usually, this circuit 500 includes a transformer lowering the mains voltage to around 18 V followed by a diode rectifier bridge delivering this same voltage but continuously. Two electronic regulators also make it possible to obtain voltages of 12 and 5 V respectively from this first voltage of 18 V.

Un second circuit du bloc 460 prévu pour alimenter les rails 600 est constitué d'un modulateur 312 branché d'une part au 18 V du bloc 500 et d'autre part à la première entrée d'un relais inverseur 320 dont l'autre entrée est reliée à la masse. Les deux sorties de ce relais inverseur 320 sont respectivement reliées à chacun des deux rails du circuit 600.A second circuit of the block 460 provided for supplying the rails 600 consists of a modulator 312 connected on the one hand to the 18 V of the block 500 and on the other hand to the first input of a change-over relay 320 of which the other input is connected to ground. Both outputs of this changeover relay 320 are respectively connected to each of the two rails of circuit 600.

Le modulateur 312 délivre à sa sortie s une tension continue comprise entre 0 et 14 V selon la tension de commande présente en la porte i. Cette porte i est reliée à quatre résistances 276 en parallèle qui sont respectivement reliées d'autre part à des interrupteurs ayant chacun la forme d'un montage en Darlington de transistors. Cette porte i est de plus reliée directement à un cinquième interrupteur toujours sous la forme d'un montage en Darlington de transistor. Ces cinq montages sont respectivement commandés par cinq circuits de sortie indépendants d'un micro-contrôleur 270′ appartenant au récepteur-radio fixe 450 décrit par la suite. Ainsi, en combinant l'ouverture ou la fermeture de ces interrupteurs, il est possible d'appliquer à volonté trente deux valeurs distinctes de tension de commandes sur la porte i, soit autant de valeurs discrètes pour la tension de sortie s.The modulator 312 delivers at its output s a direct voltage between 0 and 14 V depending on the control voltage present at gate i. This gate i is connected to four resistors 276 in parallel which are respectively connected on the other hand to switches each having the form of a Darlington mounting of transistors. This gate i is moreover directly connected to a fifth switch, still in the form of a transistor Darlington circuit. These five assemblies are respectively controlled by five independent output circuits of a micro-controller 270 ′ belonging to the fixed radio receiver 450 described below. Thus, by combining the opening or closing of these switches, it is possible to apply at will thirty two distinct values of control voltage on the gate i, that is to say as many discrete values for the output voltage s.

Le relais inverseur 320 permet de modifier la polarité entre les deux rails selon le signal appliqué sur sa porte de commande i′. Pour des considérations de sécurité, un relais mécanique et non pas électronique est préféré. De manière analogue, la porte de commande i′ est reliée à un interrupteur sous la forme d'un montage en Darlington de transistors lui-même commandé par un sixième circuit de sortie du micro-contrôleur 270′ appartenant au récepteur-radio 450.The change-over relay 320 makes it possible to modify the polarity between the two rails according to the signal applied to its control door i ′. For security considerations, a mechanical, not electronic, relay is preferred. Similarly, the control door i ′ is connected to a switch in the form of a Darlington circuit of transistors itself controlled by a sixth output circuit of the micro-controller 270 ′ belonging to the radio receiver 450.

Dans la pratique, huit montages en Darlington de transistors sont réunis dans un seul et même boîtier tel que celui commercialisé par la Société THOMSON sous la référence ULN 2803 et symbolisé par les blocs 275.In practice, eight assemblies in Darlington of transistors are gathered in a single and same case such as that marketed by the Company THOMSON under the reference ULN 2803 and symbolized by the blocks 275.

Un troisième circuit du bloc 460 prévu pour alimenter les accessoires 620 fonctionnant en "tout ou rien" est constitué d'un circuit limiteur de courant 314 branché d'une part au 12 V du bloc 500 et d'autre part à la première borne de l'accessoire 620, la seconde borne étant reliée à la masse au travers d'un interrupteur identique au précédent c'est-à-dire un montage en Darlington de transistors directement piloté par un circuit de sortie du micro-contrôleur 270′ du récepteur radio 450. L'avantage de disposer cet interrupteur proche de la masse est qu'une faible tension commande suffit pour le basculer. A titre d'exemple, le circuit 314 peut comprendre un composant électronique variant son impédance en fonction de la différence entre le potentiel à la sortie et le potentiel présent à une porte de commande. Une résistance de faible valeur ohmique est alors disposée derrière ce composant électronique mais avant l'accessoire 620 et une liaison électrique rapporte le potentiel présent à la sortie de cette résistance à la porte de commande du composant électronique. Comme on peut aisément le comprendre, la différence entre le potentiel à la sortie et celui à la porte de commande est égale à la chute de potentiel créée par le passage du courant au travers de la résistance donc est bien représentative de l'intensité de courant continu passant dans l'accessoire. Ainsi, si cette intensité tend à devenir trop forte par exemple due à un court-circuit de l'accessoire 620, l'élément électronique augmente automatiquement son impédance pour limiter l'intensité. A titre d'exemple, le composant électronique est commercialisé par la Société THOMSON sous la référence LN 317.A third circuit of block 460 provided for supplying accessories 620 operating in "all or nothing" consists of a current limiting circuit 314 connected on the one hand to the 12 V of block 500 and on the other hand to the first terminal of accessory 620, the second terminal being connected to earth through a switch identical to the previous one, i.e. a Darlington mounting of transistors directly controlled by an output circuit of the receiver's 270 ′ microcontroller radio 450. The advantage of having this switch close to earth is that a low control voltage is enough to switch it. By way of example, the circuit 314 may include an electronic component varying its impedance as a function of the difference between the potential at the output and the potential present at a control gate. A resistance of low ohmic value is then placed behind this electronic component but before the accessory 620 and an electrical connection reports the potential present at the output of this resistance to the control door of the electronic component. As can easily be understood, the difference between the potential at the output and that at the control gate is equal to the potential drop created by the current flowing through the resistor therefore is representative of the current intensity continuous passing through the accessory. So if this intensity tends to become too strong for example due to a short circuit of the accessory 620, the electronic element automatically increases its impedance to limit the intensity. For example, the electronic component is marketed by THOMSON under the reference LN 317.

Un quatrième circuit du bloc 460 prévu pour alimenter les accessoires 630 fonctionnant par impulsions, comprend un circuit 314 de limitation de courant analogue à celui décrit précédemment branché d'une part au 18 V du bloc 500 et d'autre part aux premières bornes de chacun des accessoires 630. De plus, un condensateur 318 de forte valeur est branché d'une part à la sortie du circuit 314 et d'autre part à la masse. Enfin, toutes les secondes bornes des accessoires 630 sont respectivement reliées à des interrupteurs, toujours sous la forme de montages en Darlington de transistors, lesquels montages sont réunis dans un second boîtier 275 inférieur. En fait, chaque accessoire 630 comprenant deux circuits distincts : l'un pour engager, l'autre pour dégager, il convient de prévoir deux interrupteurs par accessoire. Dans ce quatrième circuit, le condensateur 318 est prévu pour emmagasiner une charge électrique suffisante pour générer une brève impulsion mais de forte intensité, de l'ordre de l'ampère, à la fermeture d'un interrupteur alors que le circuit 314 n'autorise qu'une intensité maximale de l'ordre de 300 milli-ampères. En d'autres termes, le condensateur 318 ne peut se charger que lorsque que tous les interrupteurs des accessoires 630 sont ouverts et qu'un courant de charge contrôlé par le circuit 314 peut s'écouler.A fourth circuit of block 460 provided for supplying accessories 630 operating by pulses, comprises a circuit 314 of current limitation similar to that described previously connected on the one hand to the 18 V of block 500 and on the other hand to the first terminals of each accessories 630. In addition, a high-value capacitor 318 is connected on the one hand to the output of circuit 314 and on the other hand to ground. Finally, all the second terminals of the accessories 630 are respectively connected to switches, always in the form of Darlington assemblies of transistors, which assemblies are combined in a second lower casing 275. In fact, each accessory 630 comprising two distinct circuits: one for engaging, the other for releasing, it is advisable to provide two switches for each accessory. In this fourth circuit, the capacitor 318 is provided for storing an electrical charge sufficient to generate a brief but strong pulse, of the order of an ampere, when a switch is closed while circuit 314 does not allow that a maximum intensity of the order of 300 milli-amps. In other words, the capacitor 318 can only charge when all of the accessories switches 630 are open and a load current controlled by the circuit 314 can flow.

Sur la partie gauche de la figure est illustrée schématiquement l'émetteur-radio 400 portatif. Cet émetteur comprend un micro-contrôleur 270 c'est-à-dire un composant électronique incluant dans un même boîtier un micro-processeur, également appelé unité centrale, en communication grâce à une ligne interne de transfert de données appelée "bus" avec une mémoire morte ROM dans laquelle sont stockées les données relatives aux procédures d'action (ou programmes du micro-processeur), une mémoire vive RAM dans laquelle peuvent être écrites puis relues des données nécessaires aux étapes des actions, ainsi que plusieurs séries de circuits tampons d'entrée et/ou de sortie selon les affectations attribuées par le programme. Ce micro-contrôleur est alimenté en 5 V à partir d'une batterie 50 grâce à un circuit 55 d'adaptation et de régulation de tension.On the left side of the figure is schematically illustrated the portable radio transmitter 400. This transmitter comprises a microcontroller 270, that is to say an electronic component including in a same housing a microprocessor, also called central unit, in communication by means of an internal data transfer line called "bus" with a ROM read-only memory in which the data relating to the action procedures (or microprocessor programs) are stored, a random access memory RAM in which the data necessary for the action steps can be written and then read again, as well as several series of buffer circuits entry and / or exit according to the assignments assigned by the program. This microcontroller is supplied with 5 V from a battery 50 by means of a voltage adjustment and regulation circuit 55.

Deux circuits d'entrée numérotés 27 et 28 sont reliés à la masse et au circuit 55 délivrant 5 V respectivement. Sept des circuits tampons d'entrée sont respectivement reliés à des interrupteurs "1"-"5", "+" et "-", ceux-ci étant tous reliés à un circuit 60 délivrant à partir de la batterie 50 une tension compatible avec ces circuits d'entrée. Par ailleurs, l'un des circuits tampons de sortie est branché à l'entrée d'un circuit oscillateur 25 à fréquence fixe incluant un élément faisant office d'antenne et un autre élément permettant le réglage de cette fréquence. A titre d'exemple nullement limitatif, ce circuit oscillateur peut être composé d'une part d'un simple transistor dont la base constitue l'entrée du circuit, dont l'émetteur est relié à la masse et dont le collecteur est branché à la pile 50 au travers d'un bobinage d'amortissement et d'autre part d'un circuit oscillant, tel qu'un montage en parallèle de condensateurs et d'un bobinage faisant office d'antenne, branché entre le collecteur et la base du transistor.Two input circuits numbered 27 and 28 are connected to ground and to circuit 55 delivering 5 V respectively. Seven of the input buffer circuits are respectively connected to switches "1" - "5", "+" and "-", these all being connected to a circuit 60 delivering from the battery 50 a voltage compatible with these input circuits. Furthermore, one of the output buffer circuits is connected to the input of a fixed frequency oscillator circuit 25 including an element acting as an antenna and another element allowing the adjustment of this frequency. By way of nonlimiting example, this oscillator circuit can be composed on the one hand of a simple transistor whose base constitutes the input of the circuit, whose emitter is connected to earth and whose collector is connected to the battery 50 through a damping winding and on the other hand an oscillating circuit, such as a parallel mounting of capacitors and a winding acting antenna, connected between the collector and the base of the transistor.

Le récepteur-radio fixe 450 correspondant comprend un premier oscillateur 215 dont la fréquence du signal de sortie (c) est modulée par les signaux radio-électriques (b) reçus sur une antenne 200b. Avantageusement, cette antenne peut aussi être le rail "plus" du circuit de rail 600. Ce signal de sortie (c) est appliqué à l'entrée d'un circuit démodulateur-décodeur 225 comprenant un comparateur de fréquences dont le signal résultant (a) est appliqué à l'un des circuits d'entrée d'un micro-contrôleur 270′. Comme précédemment, ce micro-contrôleur comprend dans un même boîtier un micro-processeur en relation grâce à une ligne interne "bus" à une mémoire morte ROM pour le stockage des informations relatives aux séquences d'action du micro-processeur, à une mémoire vive RAM dans laquelle peuvent être écrites puis relues des informations nécessaires lors de l'action du micro-processeur, le circuit tampon d'entrée relié au démodulateur 225 ainsi que plusieurs circuits tampon de sortie qui sont respectivement reliés aux interrupteurs 275 cités lors de la description du bloc d'alimentation 460. Enfin, deux circuits d'entrée 27 et 28 sont reliés au 5 V et à la masse respectivement. Les circuits 215 et 225 sont alimentés en 12 V et le micro-contrôleur 270′ en 5 V à partir du circuit 500 du bloc 460.The corresponding fixed radio receiver 450 comprises a first oscillator 215 whose frequency of the output signal (c) is modulated by the radio signals (b) received on an antenna 200b. Advantageously, this antenna can also be the "plus" rail of the rail circuit 600. This output signal (c) is applied to the input of a demodulator-decoder circuit 225 comprising a frequency comparator whose resulting signal (a ) is applied to one of the input circuits of a 270 ′ microcontroller. As before, this microcontroller comprises in a same housing a microprocessor connected by an internal "bus" line to a ROM read only memory for the storage of information relating to the action sequences of the microprocessor, to a memory RAM in which can be written and then re-read information necessary during the action of the microprocessor, the input buffer circuit connected to the demodulator 225 as well as several output buffer circuits which are respectively connected to the switches 275 cited during the description of the power supply unit 460. Finally, two input circuits 27 and 28 are connected to the 5 V and to the ground respectively. The circuits 215 and 225 are supplied with 12 V and the microcontroller 270 ′ with 5 V from the circuit 500 of the block 460.

Les micro-contrôleurs présents dans l'émetteur et le récepteur peuvent être d'un type connu, tel que le modèle EF68HC commercialisé par la Société THOMSON. Toutefois, une fois que les procédures de fonctionnement sont bien établies et pour des considérations de coût, on peut envisager la conception d'une topographie de semi-conducteurs ayant les mêmes fonctions. En effet, compte-tenu de la similitude de l'architecture des deux micro-­contrôleurs, et que les seules différences résident essentiellement dans le fonctionnement assez simple établit par les procédures pré-­écrites dans les mémoires ROM, il est envisageable de concevoir une seule et unique topographie prévue pour être installée indifféremment dans l'émetteur ou le récepteur, le branchement particulier d'une ou deux portes d'entrée 27, 28 faisant que seule la partie de procédure de fonctionnement nécessaire soit mise en oeuvre.The microcontrollers present in the transmitter and the receiver can be of a known type, such as the model EF68HC marketed by the Company THOMSON. However, once the operating procedures are well established and for cost considerations, consideration can be given to designing a topography of semiconductors having the same functions. Indeed, given the similarity of the architecture of the two microcontrollers, and that the only differences essentially lie in the fairly simple operation established by the procedures pre-written in the ROM memories, it is conceivable to design a single and single topography intended to be installed indifferently in the transmitter or the receiver, the particular connection of one or two entry doors 27, 28 making that only the part of the necessary operating procedure is implemented.

Tel que décrit précédemment, le dispositif de commande à distance fonctionne de la manière suivante.As described above, the remote control device operates as follows.

Lorsque qu'une batterie 50 est installée dans l'émetteur-radio 400, le micro-contrôleur 270 entre d'abord dans une procédure d'initialisation qu'il lit dans la mémoire ROM. Durant cette procédure, son micro-processeur teste l'état des circuits d'entrées 27 et 28 et constate qu'un rôle "émetteur" lui a été affecté lors de son installation. Puis ce micro-processeur se met en attente jusqu'à ce que l'une des touches "1"-"5", "+" ou "-" soit une première fois appuyée par l'utilisateur. Selon la touche appuyée, le micro-processeur écrit alors en mémoire vive RAM la famille correspondante de codes préétablis. En d'autres termes, le micro-contrôleur a initialement sept familles de codes à disposition dans sa mémoire ROM pour n'en n'utiliser par la suite qu'une seule dans sa mémoire RAM. Ceci autorise l'utilisation d'un autre émetteur-radio portatif 400 que l'on pourra alors utiliser dans les environs (en prenant garde toutefois de choisir un autre code soit en appuyant pour la première fois sur un autre interrupteur).When a battery 50 is installed in the radio transmitter 400, the microcontroller 270 first enters an initialization procedure which it reads in the ROM memory. During this procedure, its microprocessor tests the state of the input circuits 27 and 28 and finds that an "emitter" role has been assigned to it during its installation. This microprocessor then waits until one of the keys "1" - "5", "+" or "-" is pressed by the user for the first time. Depending on the key pressed, the microprocessor then writes into RAM the corresponding family of preset codes. In other words, the microcontroller initially has seven families of codes available in its ROM memory so as to use only one later in its RAM memory. This authorizes the use of another portable radio transmitter 400 which can then be used in the vicinity (taking care however to choose another code or by pressing for the first time on another switch).

Une fois cette phase très rapide d'auto-initialisation achevée, l'émetteur-radio 400 est prêt à l'emploi. Ainsi, dès que l'une des touches est à nouveau enfoncée, le micro-processeur du micro-contrôleur 270 constate que le circuit tampon d'entrée correspondant a changé d'état, il associe à ce signal reçu une adresse de la mémoire vive RAM et il applique le code correspondant au circuit de sortie qui lui délivre un signal codé (a) à l'entrée de l'oscillateur 25.Once this very rapid self-initialization phase has been completed, the radio transmitter 400 is ready for use. Thus, as soon as one of the keys is pressed again, the micro-processor of the micro-controller 270 notices that the corresponding input buffer circuit has changed state, it associates with this received signal an address of the random access memory RAM and it applies the code corresponding to the output circuit which delivers a coded signal (a) to the input of oscillator 25.

Avantageusement, ce signal (a) peut être une succession d'un mot composé d'une suite d'absences ou de présences de créneaux de l'ordre de 5 V. La première partie du mot peut caractériser la famille de codes utilisée alors que la seconde partie caractérise plutôt la touche effectivement enfoncée. Par exemple, un demi-mot peut être constitué d'une succession de huit créneaux dont l'un est répété, la position de ce créneau doublé par rapport aux autres étant caractéristique de l'information : famille de codes, touche.Advantageously, this signal (a) can be a succession of a word composed of a series of absences or the presence of slots of the order of 5 V. The first part of the word can characterize the family of codes used while the second part rather characterizes the key actually pressed. For example, a half-word can consist of a succession of eight slots, one of which is repeated, the position of this doubled slot with respect to the others being characteristic of the information: family of codes, key.

Compte-tenu d'une part que l'oscillateur 25 démarre dès que sa porte d'entrée est portée à un potentiel suffisant et s'arrête dès que sa porte d'entrée est ramenée à un potentiel proche de zéro et d'autre part que cet oscillateur fonctionne à une fréquence élevée nettement supérieure à celle du signal codé (a), on comprend alors qu'à la réception de ce signal (a) cet oscillateur 25 émet un signal radio-électrique (b) composé d'une suite de présences ou d'absences de paquets identiques d'impulsions, chacun de ces paquets correspondant à un créneau. En d'autres termes, le signal radio-électrique (b) reproduit le signal codé (a) à la différence que les créneaux sont maintenant remplacés par des paquets d'impulsions à haute fréquence.Taking into account on the one hand that the oscillator 25 starts as soon as its front door is brought to a sufficient potential and stops as soon as its front door is brought back to a potential close to zero and on the other hand that this oscillator operates at a high frequency markedly higher than that of the coded signal (a), it is then understood that on reception of this signal (a) this oscillator 25 emits a radioelectric signal (b) composed of a sequence of the presence or absence of identical packets of pulses, each of these packets corresponding to a niche. In other words, the radio signal (b) reproduces the coded signal (a) with the difference that the slots are now replaced by high frequency pulse packets.

Compte-tenu de la vitesse de génération d'ondes radio-­électriques par le radio-émetteur 400 par rapport à celle du mouvement d'un doigt sur la touche même très bref, il est bien évident qu'une série de mots semblables sera systématiquement émis et non pas un seul mot unique. Ce phénomène est essentiellement dû à la fréquence de fonctionnement du micro-procésseur aisément suivi par la fréquence de l'oscillateur qui a été volontairement choisie particulièrement élevée pour des considérations de normes et d'interférences avec d'autres émissions radio-électriques permanentes. Par exemple, cette fréquence d'émission est largement supérieure au 110 MHz constituant la limite supérieure d'émission des radio en "modulation de fréquence". Enfin, il faut noter que la puissance appliquée dans l'antenne est faible de l'ordre 0,5 mW assurant une grande économie de batterie 50, limitant d'autant les interférences possibles à l'extérieur du bâtiment tout en assurant une émission suffisante pour le récepteur 450. Une lampe à faible consommation LED en relation avec l'antenne permet de vérifier le bon fonctionnement de l'émetteur.Taking into account the speed of generation of radio waves by the radio transmitter 400 compared to that of the movement of a finger on the key even very brief, it is obvious that a series of similar words will be systematically issued and not a single single word. This phenomenon is essentially due to the operating frequency of the micro-processor easily followed by the frequency of the oscillator which has been deliberately chosen to be particularly high for considerations of standards and interference with other permanent radioelectric emissions. For example, this transmission frequency is much higher than 110 MHz constituting the upper limit for radio transmissions in "frequency modulation". Finally, it should be noted that the power applied in the antenna is low on the order of 0.5 mW ensuring great battery saving 50, thereby limiting the possible interference outside the building while ensuring sufficient emission for the 450 receiver. A low-consumption LED lamp connected to the antenna allows the correct functioning of the transmitter to be checked.

Ce signal radio-électrique (b) est reçu par une antenne 200b à l'entrée de l'oscillateur 215 dont il altère la fréquence d'oscillation. Par exemple, cet oscillateur passe d'une fréquence normale de 4 Mhz à une seconde fréquence de 2 Mhz lors de la réception de paquets d'impulsions. Le signal (c) modulé en fréquence est alors appliqué à un démodulateur-décodeur comprenant un comparateur de fréquence et délivrant une tension de 5 V pour la fréquence normale et de 0 V pour l'autre ce qui, à la sortie, reconstitue le signal (a) généré précédemment dans l'émetteur-radio 400. Ce signal (a) est alors appliqué à l'entrée du micro-­contrôleur 270′.This radioelectric signal (b) is received by an antenna 200b at the input of the oscillator 215 of which it alters the oscillation frequency. For example, this oscillator goes from a normal frequency of 4 Mhz to a second frequency of 2 Mhz when receiving pulse packets. The frequency modulated signal (c) is then applied to a demodulator-decoder comprising a frequency comparator and delivering a voltage of 5 V for the normal frequency and 0 V for the other which, at the output, reconstitutes the signal (a) previously generated in the radio transmitter 400. This signal (a) is then applied to the input of the microcontroller 270 ′.

Lors de la première mise sous tension de la console centrale, donc du micro-contrôleur 270′, celui-ci est également d'abord entré dans une procédure d'auto-initialisation lue dans sa mémoire ROM. Durant cette procédure, son micro-processeur a d'abord testé l'état de ses portes 27 et 28 pour constater qu'un rôle "récepteur" lui a été affecté lors de son installation. Puis, ce micro-processeur attend la réception d'un premier signal pour n'en lire que la première partie caractéristique de la famille de codes établie dans l'émetteur et qu'il écrit de son côté à l'identique dans sa mémoire vive avec les codes de touches associées. Une fois cette phase d'auto-initialisation achevée, les signaux (a) suivants seront interprétés pour reconnaître la touche correspondante enfoncée. Lors de cette interprétation, des tests peuvent être effectués quant à la véracité d'un signal reçu. Par exemple, compte-tenu que la durée des créneaux a été établie à une valeur nettement supérieure à la durée usuelle des parasites, un test peut consister à vérifier qu'un créneau présent dans le signal (a) transmis par le démodulateur-décodeur 225 présente une certaine durée au minimum.When the central console is powered up for the first time, and therefore the 270 ′ microcontroller, it also first entered a self-initialization procedure read from its ROM memory. During this procedure, its microprocessor first tested the state of its doors 27 and 28 to find that a "receiver" role was assigned to it during its installation. Then, this microprocessor waits for the reception of a first signal to read only the first characteristic part of the family of codes established in the transmitter and that it writes for its part identically in its RAM. with the associated key codes. Once this self-initialization phase has been completed, the following signals (a) will be interpreted to recognize the corresponding key pressed. During this interpretation, tests can be carried out as to the veracity of a received signal. For example, given that the duration of the slots has been established at a value significantly greater than the usual duration of the parasites, a test may consist in verifying that a slot present in the signal (a) transmitted by the demodulator-decoder 225 has a minimum duration.

Le signal (a) suivant est lu par le micro-processeur du micro-contrôleur 270′ qui le compare alors aux codes préalablement enregistrés dans les moyens de stockage (tel que RAM). Si aucun code ne correspond au second demi-mot reçu, le micro-processeur conclut à la présence d'un parasite et le rejette, c'est-à-dire qu'il attend une nouvelle réception. Si à l'inverse le second demi-­mot reçu ressemble à l'un des codes prédéterminés, le micro-­processeur conclut que telle ou telle autre touche de l'émetteur-­radio est enfoncée. Il peut alors agir selon les ordres de l'utilisateur.The following signal (a) is read by the micro-processor of the micro-controller 270 ′ which then compares it to the codes previously recorded in the storage means (such as RAM). If no code corresponds to the second half-word received, the microprocessor concludes that a parasite is present and rejects it, that is to say that it awaits a new reception. If, on the other hand, the second received half-word resembles one of the predetermined codes, the microprocessor concludes that such or such other key of the radio transmitter is pressed. He can then act according to the user's orders.

Si l'un des boutons "1"-"4" est enfoncé, le micro-­contrôleur 270′ applique soit une impulsion, soit un état de saturation à la borne de sortie liée à l'interrupteur correspondant du boîtier inférieur 275. L'accessoire associé est alors basculé de manière usuelle.If one of the buttons "1" - "4" is pressed, the microcontroller 270 ′ applies either a pulse or a state of saturation to the output terminal linked to the corresponding switch of the lower housing 275. The associated accessory is then tilted in the usual way.

Si le micro-contrôleur 270′ comprend que la touche "+" est enfoncée, il modifie l'état des interrupteurs contenus dans le boîtier 275 supérieur pour augmenter d'une valeur discrète, c'est à dire d'un échelon, la tension de commande apparaîssant à la porte i du modulateur 312 qui augmente donc d'un cran la tension appliquée au réseau de rail donc la vitesse de la locomotive. Si après un temps de latence fixé à 8/10 de seconde par exemple, le mot correspondant à la touche "+" est toujours présent à l'entrée du micro-contrôleur 270′, celui-ci comprend qu'il doit poursuivre l'accélération et remodifie l'état des interrupteurs jusqu'à ce que les cinq portes soient à l'état 1. Ce temps de latence a été établi de telle sorte qu'une pleine accélération de la locomotive s'effectue en cinq secondes.If the 270 ′ microcontroller understands that the "+" key is pressed, it modifies the state of the switches contained in the upper case 275 to increase by a discrete value, that is to say by a step, the control voltage appearing at gate i of the modulator 312 which therefore increases by a notch the voltage applied to the rail network therefore the speed of the locomotive. If after a latency time fixed at 8/10 of a second for example, the word corresponding to the "+" key is still present at the input of the 270 ′ microcontroller, the latter understands that it must continue the accelerate and change the state of the switches until all five doors are in state 1. This latency has been set so that full acceleration of the locomotive takes place in five seconds.

A l'inverse, si le micro-contrôleur 270′ établi que la touche "-" est enfoncée, il modifie l'état des interrupteurs contenus dans le boîtier 275 supérieur pour diminuer d'une valeur discrète la tension de commande sur la porte i. De plus, le micro-­contrôleur 270′ teste si cette dernière porte basculée n'est pas aussi la première de la série correspondant à une vitesse nulle. Dans ce cas, la persistance du mot correspondant à la touche "-" à l'entrée du micro-contrôleur 270′ signifie qu'une inversion de sens de déplacement de la locomotive doit être effectuée et la porte correspondante à l'entrée i′ du relais inverseur 320 est elle-même changée.Conversely, if the microcontroller 270 ′ establishes that the "-" key is pressed, it modifies the state of the switches contained in the upper casing 275 to decrease the control voltage on the door i by a discrete value . In addition, the 270 ′ microcontroller tests whether the latter tilted door is not also the first in the series corresponding to zero speed. In this case, the persistence of the word corresponding to the "-" key at the input of the microcontroller 270 ′ means that a reversal of the direction of movement of the locomotive must be carried out and the corresponding door at the input i ′ of the changeover relay 320 is itself changed.

Il est à noter que l'enfoncement simultané des touches "+" et "-" correspond à un code particulier générant une série de mots caractéristiques interprétée par la suite dans le micro-­contrôleur 270′ comme un arrêt d'urgence.It should be noted that the simultaneous pressing of the "+" and "-" keys corresponds to a particular code generating a series of characteristic words subsequently interpreted in the microcontroller 270 ′ as an emergency stop.

En comparaison au dispositif de télécommande connu pour modèle réduit d'avion, le nombre de circuits présent dans ce dispositif est réduit alors que la forme prise par le signal radio-électrique favorise l'immunité de la transmission aux parasites de l'environnement.Compared to the known remote control device for a model airplane, the number of circuits present in this device is reduced while the shape taken by the radio signal promotes immunity from transmission to environmental parasites.

Comme on a pu le constater, ce dispositif de commande à distance permet à un utilisateur de se déplacer tout autour de son installation de train miniature tout en continuant à transmettre des ordres à la centrale d'alimentation décrite dans le bloc 460 précédemment. Outre la commodité dans la prise de décision du fait d'une meilleure vision d'une situation locale, ce dispositif éveille surtout l'intérêt de nombreuses personnes pouvant maintenant apprécier et admirer leur installation complexe dans les moindres détails, et ce à faible coût. De plus, ce dispositif permet maintenant la réalisation d'installations non plus confinées dans une pièce unique, mais pouvant déborder dans tout un appartement entier ou à l'extérieur augmentant d'autant le plaisir.As we have seen, this remote control device allows a user to move around its miniature train installation while continuing to transmit orders to the power plant described in block 460 above. In addition to convenience in decision-making due to a better vision of a local situation, this device above all arouses the interest of many people who can now appreciate and admire their complex installation in every detail, and this at low cost. In addition, this device now allows the realization of installations no longer confined to a single room, but which can extend beyond an entire apartment or outside, thereby increasing the pleasure.

Claims (13)

1. Dispositif de commande à distance pour une installation de jouet électrique sur circuit comprenant :
- au moins un circuit de rail (600) de guidage et d'apport en énergie électrique pour une ou plusieurs motrices (610) ainsi que des premiers moyens électrotechniques et/ou électroniques associés de transformation (500) de l'énergie électrique du secteur, de régulation, de modulation (275, 276, 312), et d'alimentation (320) du circuit (600) en énergie électrique adaptée au moteur embarqué dans la ou les motrices (610) respectivement,
- si désiré, un ou plusieurs accessoires de type "tout ou rien" (620) ainsi que des seconds moyens électroniques associés d'alimentation (500) et de contrôle (275) de ces accessoires en énergie électrique permanente,
- si désiré, un ou plusieurs accessoires (630) réagissant à des impulsions électriques ainsi que des troisième moyens électroniques associés de génération (500, 318) et de contrôle (275) de ces accessoires en impulsion électrique,
lequel dispositif de commande à distance comprend :
- un émetteur-radio portatif (400) contenant une suite d'interrupteurs ("1"-"5", "+", "-") reliée à une source de tension (60) ; et un micro-contrôleur (270) dont les circuits d'entrée sont respectivement reliés aux interrupteurs, qui inclut des moyens de stockage de différents codes préétablis et qui inclut un micro-­ processeur associant à un signal reçu d'un interrupteur basculé par l'utilisateur exprimant son choix une adresse des moyens de stockage contenant un code correspondant, puis appliquant sur un circuit de sortie un signal binaire codé (a)correspondant,
- un récepteur-radio fixe (450) contenant un micro-contrôleur (270′) recevant sur un circuit d'entrée un signal binaire codé (a) qu'il interprète pour déclencher les premiers et/ou second et/ou troisième moyens de contrôle de l'installation,
caractérisé en ce que l'émetteur-radio (400) comprend de plus des quatrièmes moyens électroniques (25) amplifiant et reconditionnant le signal binaire codé (a) en un signal émis (b) moins sensible aux parasites électriques environnants et en ce que le récepteur-radio fixe (450) comprend des cinquièmes moyens électroniques (215, 225) convertissant le signal reçu (b) en un signal binaire codé (a) qu'il applique à l'entrée de son micro-contrôleur (270′).1. Remote control device for an electric toy installation on a circuit comprising:
- at least one rail circuit (600) for guiding and supplying electrical energy for one or more drive units (610) as well as first associated electrotechnical and / or electronic means for transforming (500) electrical energy in the sector , of regulation, of modulation (275, 276, 312), and of supply (320) of the circuit (600) in electrical energy adapted to the engine on board in the drive (s) (610) respectively,
- if desired, one or more accessories of the "all or nothing" type (620) as well as second associated electronic means of supply (500) and control (275) of these accessories with permanent electrical energy,
- if desired, one or more accessories (630) reacting to electrical pulses as well as third associated electronic means of generation (500, 318) and control (275) of these accessories in electrical pulse,
which remote control device comprises:
- a portable radio transmitter (400) containing a series of switches ("1" - "5", "+", "-") connected to a voltage source (60); and a microcontroller (270) whose input circuits are respectively connected to the switches, which includes means for storing different preset codes and which includes a micro- processor associating with a signal received from a switch toggled by the user expressing his choice an address of the storage means containing a corresponding code, then applying to a output circuit a corresponding coded binary signal (a),
- a fixed radio receiver (450) containing a micro-controller (270 ′) receiving on an input circuit a binary coded signal (a) which it interprets to trigger the first and / or second and / or third means of installation control,
characterized in that the radio transmitter (400) further comprises fourth electronic means (25) amplifying and repackaging the coded binary signal (a) into an transmitted signal (b) less sensitive to the surrounding electrical noise and in that the fixed radio receiver (450) comprises fifth electronic means (215, 225) converting the received signal (b) into a coded binary signal (a) which it applies to the input of its microcontroller (270 ′). 2. Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que l'émetteur-radio (400) n'émet de signal radio-électrique (b) que lors d'un choix de l'utilisateur.2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the radio transmitter (400) emits radio signal (b) only when the user chooses. 3. Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce qu'un signal radio-électrique (b) émis par l'émetteur-radio (400) est essentiellement formé d'une répétition d'un mot binaire composé, selon un signal codé (a) associé au choix de l'utilisateur, d'une suite de présences ou d'absences de paquets identiques d'impulsions électriques3. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that a radioelectric signal (b) emitted by the radio transmitter (400) is essentially formed by a repetition of a binary word composed, according to a coded signal ( a) associated with the choice of the user, of a sequence of presence or absence of identical packets of electrical pulses 4. Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que les quatrièmes moyens électroniques (25) de l'émetteur (400) amplifiant et reconditionnant le signal binaire codé (a) en un signal émis (b) comprennent un oscillateur (25) à fréquence fixe incluant un élément faisant office d'antenne et qui est enclenché, respectivement arrêté, par l'application, respectivement la diminution, d'une tension codée (a) sur sa borne d'entrée appliquée par le circuit de sortie du micro-contrôleur (270)4. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the fourth electronic means (25) of the transmitter (400) amplifying and repackaging the binary coded signal (a) into an transmitted signal (b) comprise an oscillator (25) to fixed frequency including an element acting as an antenna and which is switched on and off respectively by the application, respectively the decrease, of a coded voltage (a) on its input terminal applied by the output circuit of the micro- controller (270) 5. Dispositif selon la revendication 1 caractérisé en ce que les cinquièmes moyens électroniques du récepteur-radio fixe (450) comprennent à la suite un oscillateur (215) dont la fréquence du signal de sortie (c) est modulée par les signaux radio-­électriques (b) reçus sur une antenne, et un démodulateur-décodeur (225) comprenant un comparateur de fréquences restituant un signal codé (a) à partir du signal de sortie (c) reçu de l'oscillateur (215), lequel signal codé (a) est appliqué à l'un des circuits d'entrée d'un micro-contrôleur (270′).5. Device according to claim 1 characterized in that the fifth electronic means of the fixed radio receiver (450) further comprises an oscillator (215) whose frequency of the output signal (c) is modulated by radio signals (b) received on an antenna, and a demodulator-decoder (225) comprising a frequency comparator reproducing an encoded signal (a) from the output signal (c) received from the oscillator (215), which encoded signal ( a) is applied to one of the input circuits of a microcontroller (270 ′). 6. Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de contrôle d'un accessoire (620, 630) comprennent un ou plusieurs interrupteurs électroniques (275) branchés entre l'accessoire et la masse, et directement commandé par un circuit de sortie du micro-contrôleur (270′).6. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the means for controlling an accessory (620, 630) comprise one or more electronic switches (275) connected between the accessory and the ground, and directly controlled by a circuit of micro-controller output (270 ′). 7. Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que les premiers moyens électroniques de modulation de l'énergie électrique du circuit de rails (600) comprennent un modulateur (312) dont la porte de commande (i) est reliée à au moins deux résistances (276) chacune branchées à une source de tension au travers d'un interrupteur électronique (275) qui est lui commandé directement par un circuit de sortie du micro-contrôleur (270′).7. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the first electronic means for modulating the electrical energy of the rail circuit (600) comprise a modulator (312) the control door (i) of which is connected to at least two resistors (276) each connected to a voltage source through an electronic switch (275) which is directly controlled by a microphone output circuit -controller (270 ′). 8. Dispositif selon la revendication 7 ou 8, caractérisé en ce que au moins l'un des interrupteurs électroniques (275) se présente sous la forme d'un montage en Darlington de transistors.8. Device according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that at least one of the electronic switches (275) is in the form of a Darlington arrangement of transistors. 9. Procédé de commande du micro-contrôleur (270′) du récepteur (450) selon la revendication 7, caractérisé en ce que, à un signal correspondant à un choix d'accélération, le micro-­contrôleur (270′) modifie l'état des interrupteurs (275) associés aux résistances (276) pour augmenter d'un échelon la tension de commande à l'entrée du modulateur (312), et ce jusqu'à l'alimentation de toutes les résistances (276).9. A method of controlling the micro-controller (270 ′) of the receiver (450) according to claim 7, characterized in that, at a signal corresponding to a choice of acceleration, the micro-controller (270 ′) modifies the state of the switches (275) associated with the resistors (276) to increase by one step the control voltage at the input of the modulator (312), until the supply of all the resistors (276). 10. Procédé de commande du micro-contrôleur (270′) du récepteur (450) selon la revendication 7, caractérisé en ce que, a un signal correspondant à un choix de décélération, le micro-­contrôleur (270′)
- modifie l'état des interrupteurs (250) pour réduire d'un échelon la tension de commande à l'entrée du modulateur (312)
- teste si le dernier interrupteur (275) est ouvert
- si le test précédent est positif, commande le basculement des moyens d'inversion (320) provoquant un arrêt, avec temporisation éventuelle, puis un changement de direction de la motrice (610).10. A method of controlling the microcontroller (270 ′) of the receiver (450) according to claim 7, characterized in that, has a signal corresponding to a choice of deceleration, the microcontroller (270 ′)
- modifies the state of the switches (250) to reduce the control voltage at the input of the modulator (312) by one step
- tests if the last switch (275) is open
- If the previous test is positive, commands the tilting of the reversing means (320) causing a stop, with possible delay, then a change of direction of the powerplant (610). 11. Procédé de commande du micro-contrôleur (270) de l'émetteur-radio (400) selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce qu'il consiste, lors de l'auto-initialisation du micro-contrôleur suite à la première mise sous tension, à attendre qu'un premier interrupteur ("1"-"5", "+", "-") soit basculé par l'utilisateur, puis à écrire dans les moyens de stockage une famille de codes pré-enregistrées en fonction de ce premier interrupteur basculé.11. Method for controlling the microcontroller (270) of the radio transmitter (400) according to claim 1, characterized in that it consists, during the self-initialization of the microcontroller following the first setting under power, wait for a first switch ("1" - "5", "+", "-") to be toggled by the user, then write in the storage means a family of codes pre-recorded in function of this first switch flipped. 12. Procédé de commande du micro-contrôleur (270′) du récepteur-radio (450) selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce qu'il consiste, lors de l'auto-initialisation du micro-contrôleur suite à la première mise sous tension, à attendre la réception d'un premier signal radio-électrique (b), puis à écrire dans les moyens de stockage la famille de codes pré-enregistrées correspondant à ce premier signal.12. A method of controlling the microcontroller (270 ′) of the radio receiver (450) according to claim 1, characterized in that it consists, during the self-initialization of the microcontroller following the first switching on. voltage, to wait for the reception of a first radioelectric signal (b), then to write in the storage means the family of pre-recorded codes corresponding to this first signal. 13. Dispositif selon la revendication 1 caractérisé en ce que le micro-contrôleur (270) de l'émetteur-radio (400) et celui (270′) dans le récepteur-radio fixe (450) sont chacun réalisés par une même topographie (270) de semi-conducteurs, le branchement au montage d'une ou de plusieurs bornes d'entrée à un ou plusieurs potentiels de référence déterminant la fonction "micro-contrôleur d'émetteur" ou "micro-contrôleur de récepteur" prise par la topographie.13. Device according to claim 1 characterized in that the microcontroller (270) of the radio transmitter (400) and that (270 ′) in the fixed radio receiver (450) are each produced by the same topography ( 270) of semiconductors, the connection to the mounting of one or more input terminals to one or more reference potentials determining the "transmitter micro-controller" or "receiver micro-controller" function taken by the topography.
EP90420039A 1989-01-31 1990-01-29 Remote control device for an electric model railway installation Withdrawn EP0381594A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8901565 1989-01-31
FR8901565A FR2642324B1 (en) 1989-01-31 1989-01-31 REMOTE CONTROL DEVICE FOR AN ELECTRICAL TOY INSTALLATION ON A CIRCUIT
FR898907748A FR2648053B2 (en) 1989-01-31 1989-06-07 REMOTE CONTROL DEVICE FOR AN ELECTRICAL TOY INSTALLATION ON A CIRCUIT
FR8907748 1989-06-07

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0381594A1 true EP0381594A1 (en) 1990-08-08

Family

ID=26227156

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP90420039A Withdrawn EP0381594A1 (en) 1989-01-31 1990-01-29 Remote control device for an electric model railway installation

Country Status (3)

Country Link
US (1) US5073750A (en)
EP (1) EP0381594A1 (en)
FR (1) FR2648053B2 (en)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0806230A1 (en) * 1996-04-30 1997-11-12 Artin Industrial Company Limited Remote controller system for electric toy car racing track
WO2006084965A1 (en) * 2005-02-08 2006-08-17 Wany Sa Method and system for controlling the speed of models on a track

Families Citing this family (17)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5134347A (en) * 1991-02-22 1992-07-28 Comfortex Corporation Low power consumption wireless data transmission and control system
WO1993006577A1 (en) * 1991-09-17 1993-04-01 Hamilton Michael S Remote control system for model railroad
US5456604A (en) * 1993-10-20 1995-10-10 Olmsted; Robert A. Method and system for simulating vehicle operation using scale models
US5944607A (en) * 1995-12-29 1999-08-31 Rokenbok Toy Company Remote control system for operating toys
AT409827B (en) * 1996-06-03 2002-11-25 Roessler Elfriede CONTROL DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING THE DIFFERENT MOTION FUNCTIONS OF A MODEL VEHICLE
US5885159A (en) * 1996-08-13 1999-03-23 Rokenbok Toy Company System for, and method of, controlling the operation of toys
US5775647A (en) * 1997-01-31 1998-07-07 Wyatt; Michael L. Hydraulic switch stand
US5846120A (en) * 1997-02-11 1998-12-08 Rokenbok Toy Company Toy tow trailer with self-leveling hitch assembly
US7553211B1 (en) 1997-02-11 2009-06-30 Deangelis Peter C System and method for controlling the operation of toys
US5879221A (en) * 1997-02-11 1999-03-09 Rokenbok Toy Company Toy bulldozer with blade float mechanism
US5989096A (en) * 1997-02-11 1999-11-23 Rokenbok Toy Company Toy fork lift vehicle with improved steering
US5964640A (en) * 1997-02-11 1999-10-12 Rokenbok Toy Company Toy dump truck with automatic dumper mechanism
US6247994B1 (en) 1998-02-11 2001-06-19 Rokenbok Toy Company System and method for communicating with and controlling toy accessories
US6765356B1 (en) 1998-11-04 2004-07-20 Lionel L.L.C. Control and motor arrangement for use in model train
US6320346B1 (en) * 2000-08-11 2001-11-20 Atlas Model Railroad Company, Incorporated DCC decoder for model railroad
US6457681B1 (en) 2000-12-07 2002-10-01 Mike's Train House, Inc. Control, sound, and operating system for model trains
US7132807B2 (en) * 2004-10-06 2006-11-07 Zahornacky Jon F Model train direction control device

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2315295A1 (en) * 1975-06-23 1977-01-21 Bacchelli Sancio Electronic model train controlling device - uses bridge circuits connected to isolated to stretches of rail to avoid collisions
FR2380048A1 (en) * 1977-02-11 1978-09-08 Kubryk Gerard Remote control unit for models - has microprocessors in transmitter and receiver to provide control impulses in form of binary code
DE2741154A1 (en) * 1977-09-13 1979-03-22 Maerklin & Cie Gmbh Geb Electric toy railway drive control - using mains LV transformer controlled by transmitter pulses and receiver actuating voltage generator
DE3301732A1 (en) * 1983-01-20 1984-07-26 Multiplex Elektronik GmbH, 7532 Niefern-Öschelbronn Transmitter with microprocessor for remotely controlling models
DE3309662A1 (en) * 1983-03-17 1984-09-27 Heinz-Jürgen Dipl.-Ing. Roth Method and device for the selective control of receivers, in particular of model railway vehicles, points, signals, lighting and barriers of a model railway set

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR1494132A (en) * 1966-05-16 1967-09-08 Csf Radio-electric system for locating trainsets of vehicles traveling on a directing track
DE2642890C2 (en) * 1976-09-21 1982-12-16 Auergesellschaft Gmbh, 1000 Berlin Chemical cartridge
US4449114A (en) * 1980-03-27 1984-05-15 Dataspeed, Inc. System for identifying and displaying data transmitted by way of unique identifying frequencies from multiple vehicles
US4390877A (en) * 1980-07-31 1983-06-28 Curran Kenneth J Remote control systems for toy vehicles, and the like
DE3314714A1 (en) * 1983-04-22 1984-10-25 Gebr. Märklin & Cie GmbH, 7320 Göppingen CONTROL UNIT FOR MODEL VEHICLES, HOW MODEL RAILWAYS, MODEL CARS, ETC.
US4902948A (en) * 1985-05-02 1990-02-20 Eaton-Kenway, Inc. Guide wire communication system and method
US4791570A (en) * 1985-05-02 1988-12-13 Eaton-Kenway, Inc. Guide wire communication system and method

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2315295A1 (en) * 1975-06-23 1977-01-21 Bacchelli Sancio Electronic model train controlling device - uses bridge circuits connected to isolated to stretches of rail to avoid collisions
FR2380048A1 (en) * 1977-02-11 1978-09-08 Kubryk Gerard Remote control unit for models - has microprocessors in transmitter and receiver to provide control impulses in form of binary code
DE2741154A1 (en) * 1977-09-13 1979-03-22 Maerklin & Cie Gmbh Geb Electric toy railway drive control - using mains LV transformer controlled by transmitter pulses and receiver actuating voltage generator
DE3301732A1 (en) * 1983-01-20 1984-07-26 Multiplex Elektronik GmbH, 7532 Niefern-Öschelbronn Transmitter with microprocessor for remotely controlling models
DE3309662A1 (en) * 1983-03-17 1984-09-27 Heinz-Jürgen Dipl.-Ing. Roth Method and device for the selective control of receivers, in particular of model railway vehicles, points, signals, lighting and barriers of a model railway set

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0806230A1 (en) * 1996-04-30 1997-11-12 Artin Industrial Company Limited Remote controller system for electric toy car racing track
WO2006084965A1 (en) * 2005-02-08 2006-08-17 Wany Sa Method and system for controlling the speed of models on a track

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2648053A2 (en) 1990-12-14
US5073750A (en) 1991-12-17
FR2648053B2 (en) 1993-01-08

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0381594A1 (en) Remote control device for an electric model railway installation
CA1260068A (en) Radiotelephone system, namely for automotive vehicles
EP0127534B1 (en) Training apparatus for practising a mother tongue or a foreign language with regard to its complete assimilation
EP0709254A1 (en) Data communications system using carrier currents, in particular for a vehicle
FR2855546A1 (en) APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TRANSMITTING AND RECEIVING A CONDITION OF CONDITION OF A MOBILE BARRIER ACTUATOR
FR2789907A1 (en) Interactive toy with accessories has inductive coupler coupled to central unit forming current of given frequency that interacts with inductive labels of binary data corresponding to phase or amplitude of frequency modulation
FR2464526A1 (en) VOICE WARNING SYSTEM FOR MOTOR VEHICLE
CA2092940A1 (en) Navigation aid receiver for an automobile vehicle
FR2464167A1 (en) VOLUME CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A VOICE WARNING SYSTEM FOR DIFFUSION OF INFORMATION IN A MOTOR VEHICLE
US3469039A (en) Magnetic recording and reproducing method and apparatus embodied in a mimicking parrot or doll
FR2754957A1 (en) METHOD FOR DECODING A DIGITAL SIGNAL AS WELL AS A BUS SYSTEM AND A PERIPHERAL UNIT FOR ITS IMPLEMENTATION
WO2012011073A1 (en) Remote-control chain comprising a mobile telephone with a remote-control function and a remote-control emulator
FR2614715A1 (en) INSTALLATION FOR LEARNING MOTOR DRIVING
CA1205893A (en) Interface for linking a computer system to an actuating device
EP0065181A2 (en) System for electronic identification
FR2658010A1 (en) Emergency lighting system for installations powered by electric mains
EP0147276A1 (en) Coded control devices
EP0718729B1 (en) Controller for active electrical loads, such as roller blinds, lighting or similar
FR2642324A1 (en) Remote control device for an electric toy installation on a circuit
FR2537368A1 (en) SYSTEM FOR IDENTIFYING LOCAL STATIONS BY A CENTRAL INTERROGATION STATION
EP0178229B1 (en) Automatic transmitter for signals, such as an alarm message, on a telephone line
WO2006048435A1 (en) Remote control method and device
FR2685505A1 (en) Process for programming a remote-control facility of an actuator device and facility for implementing this process
FR2483723A1 (en) Digital sound distribution controller for cinemas - stores adjustments to be made on incoming analogue signal for each respective output to main amplification system
EP0055718A1 (en) Electronic device for the automatic start-stop of a tape recorder by the speech.

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE ES FR GB GR IT LI LU NL SE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19901210

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 19920210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION IS DEEMED TO BE WITHDRAWN

18D Application deemed to be withdrawn

Effective date: 19920623