On this page, you find information about:
- how to build a German dwarf light signal with LEGO bricks,
- equipping the it with lights,
- automating the signal with a MattzoLayoutController.
About the signal
The signal was originally designed by Matthias Runte of MattzoBricks in 2021.
The signal indicates that the track or switching section ahead is blocked or cleared for shunting operations.
Aspects
The signal can show two different aspects
Sh0 – Stop
The Sh0 aspect is indicated by two red lights. Vehicles may not pass the signal.
Sh1 – Shunting clearance
The Sh1 aspect is indicated with two diagonal lights. Vehicles may pass for shunting operations.
This means that the train may enter the shunting area, but has no clearance to operate on the following main track.
How to build the signal
The signal is very simple to build. Nevertheless, we have compiled some building instructions.
Required Parts
The signal can be built with standard LEGO parts. No printed parts are required for this signal.
If you want to illumiante the signal, you need these extra parts:
- Two red and two white LEDs. The precise LED type and sourcing information is indicated on the bill of materials.
To prevent the LEDs from burning off and to save electrical power, you may want to add some resistors to limit the current through the LED. At a voltage of 3,3V, 120 Ohm should usually be a good value. If in question, read the data sheet of your LEDs.
Automation
The signal is automated with a MattzoLayoutController (MLC). The MLC receives commands from Rocrail and lights up the correct LEDs for the current signal aspect.
Find more details about the MLC here.
To use the MLC with signals is described here.
Enjoy!
Credits
Julius Brönner contributed some details to the design of the signal.
Thank you for your contribution, Julius.