Open Rails Test Environment And Physics Description

New Stuff

01 March 2024 - Added Southern Pacific oil burning locomotive test reports.

13 February 2022 - Updated BR DoG Locomotive.

13 February 2024 - Updated BR 4MT Tank Locomotive.

10 February 2024 - Updated PRR T1 Duplex Locomotive.

28 February 2023 - Open Rails Support Documents added.


Index

Introduction

Online Tools and Calculators

Open Rails Physics Parameters

Expressions of Interest

Text Legend


Introduction

Open Rails is an open source train simulator that is currently being developed, and new features are continually being added to it. Open Rails have set as one of its aims that train performance should mirror real life operation as closely as possible. Thus a way of comparing the train's performance in the simulator, and in real life is critical to achieve this outcome. In addition, when a problem is identified, it is important to be able identify the problem, or if necessary communicate it in a way that makes it easy for different people to compare outcomes and provide suggested remedies.

The guidelines and methodology in the following pages describe a common and consistent test environment that allows all users to test locomotives and rolling stock against real life scenarios. They allow the testing of the locomotive, under 'controlled' conditions, which eliminates as many unknowns as possible.

This site guide covers the type of information that is available on this site, should be considered by the tester. It is suggested that the background information is read thoroughly first, and then the tester can review each of the relevant sections of the ENG/WAG file as appropriate.

Background Information

Prototype Information

ENG / WAG File Sections

General

Testing of Rolling Stock

Miscellaneous

OR Operation

Some simple converters are located on this page to assist in moving between imperial and metric units of measure.

Note: Information currently provided is, to the best of my knowledge correct at the time of writing. Full responsibility is on the user for any problems created by using this information.

Physics Setting Philosophy - only key configuration parameters will be changed between individual units, this may not achieve a true realistic response, but will allow comparative response between different units.

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Online Tools and Calculators

Some simple online tools and converters are provided to support the development of physics for steam locomotives and trains:

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Open Rails Physics Parameters

Some of the key parameters used by Open Rails to define the physics and operation of railway locomotive, wagons and cars can be found on the following pages:

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Expressions of Interest

I am seeking people who are interested in supporting of the development of this standard (approach) to work with me.

The types of tasks that would be needed to advance the development:

If you are interested, please contact me through the Contact page.

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Text Legend

Text used in wag and eng files will be colour coded as below:
Green - text that stays the same and does not need to be altered.
Red - text that needs to be altered to suit stock unit.
Blue - text that provides explanations about code.

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