Automation

Automate your model train layout

Model Train Script lets you automate your layout with simple sequential scripts — no programming knowledge required.

To make configuring scripts easier, it is recommended to set up your vehicles and layout first. This allows you to select vehicles and accessories directly while composing scripts.

Automation elements can be edited from the profile screen. Check out our tutorials to get started.

Execution flow

The diagram below gives an overview of how automation scripts are structured.

Scripts

Scripts are small programs that control anything on your layout — vehicles, accessories, sounds, and more. A script is built from sections that contain actions. Scripts can be triggered manually or automatically by layout events.

Routes

Routes let you set multiple accessories at once with a single command. Define a combination of turnout and signal states and apply it from the throttle, layout, or within a script.

Time tables

Time tables let you schedule your scripts on a time basis, creating different running scenarios for your layout. Configure different timetables for morning rush hour, midday quiet, or evening operations.

Sounds

Sounds add atmosphere to your layout. Play station announcements, ambient effects, or custom audio files from your scripts using a built-in sound library or your own MP3 files.

Flags

Flags make your scripts more generic and reusable without the need to duplicate them. A typical use case is enabling or disabling sound for late-night running sessions. Flags work at three levels: global, per-script, and per-vehicle.

Variables

Variables allow you to store numeric values (0–255) that can be used across your scripts for counting, tracking state, or coordinating between scripts.

Cameras

Cameras can serve as feedback sensors for your scripts by using AI-based detection of vehicles on your layout. They can trigger scripts, act as wait conditions, and work alongside traditional feedback sensors.