Getting Started
![Picture](/uploads/4/3/7/1/43716839/published/anyrail6-fyduki2vyn.jpg?1718546688)
How To Get Started
Each plan starts by filling out the online questionnaire and providing a detailed floor plan of the available space. After reviewing the questionnaire and the floor plan, I will determine what is the best track configuration for the available space, including any limitations the client has placed on a design. If I'm designing a plan based on a prototype railroad, I will research the specific elements the client wants before starting the design phase.
The design time can vary depending on the complexity of the design. The number of revisions required and the number of projects currently in production. A large complex multi-level track plan can take between 90-120 days.
The most important step in producing a quality plan is making sure I receive an accurate floor plan of the available space. Getting accurate dimensions is a major hurdle. I recommend purchasing a laser measuring tape. It will give you the most accurate readings. Is is also very important the floor plan shows all obstructions. Obstructions include; doors, windows, stairways, support posts, sewer pipes, electrical panels, sump pumps, etc.
After receiving the floor plan information, I will design a detailed floor plan of the available space. After getting confirmation, from the client, that the floor plan, measurements and locations of all obstructions is accurate, I will start the actual design phase. Producing an accurate floor plan is critical to the success of a well designed track plan.
The Finished Plan
When the plan is completed, the client will receive prints scales to 1 inch equals 1 foot (1:12). One print will contain the information needed to construct the benchwork's top sub-roadbed layer. I do not include under top sub-roadbed detail for two reasons; (1) the time it takes to design the sub-benchwork would double the design time and cost, and 2) each client has different levels of carpentry skills. Designing under benchwork detail to fit each clients skill level is highly impractical and would further increased the cost.
The other 1:12 print will contain an outline of the benchwork fascia, track centerlines, manufacturer SKU numbers, curved track radius numbers, slope percentages, etc. Plus, instructions on how to use an architects ruler to accurately transpose the 1:12 track location measurements to the full size benchwork.
Along with the black & white prints. A full color print will scaled to 12:1 and contain all the detailed scenes to help the client better visualize the overall design. The color print is suitable for framing. Clients will also receive inventory lists of track materials and structure's for the design.
Also attached is a list of companies I recommend for additional services including; 1:1 full size track prints, full color high quality photo backdrops, electrical schematic drawings specific to the clients track plan, signaling system information and design, and general model railroad supplies.
There are no additional charges for making reasonable adjustments or modifications to the original plan. However, a complete re-designs will be charged at my current hourly rate. All original files remain the sole property of - The Track Planner. I reserve the right to use the design in any track plan design in future advertising.
Each plan starts by filling out the online questionnaire and providing a detailed floor plan of the available space. After reviewing the questionnaire and the floor plan, I will determine what is the best track configuration for the available space, including any limitations the client has placed on a design. If I'm designing a plan based on a prototype railroad, I will research the specific elements the client wants before starting the design phase.
The design time can vary depending on the complexity of the design. The number of revisions required and the number of projects currently in production. A large complex multi-level track plan can take between 90-120 days.
The most important step in producing a quality plan is making sure I receive an accurate floor plan of the available space. Getting accurate dimensions is a major hurdle. I recommend purchasing a laser measuring tape. It will give you the most accurate readings. Is is also very important the floor plan shows all obstructions. Obstructions include; doors, windows, stairways, support posts, sewer pipes, electrical panels, sump pumps, etc.
After receiving the floor plan information, I will design a detailed floor plan of the available space. After getting confirmation, from the client, that the floor plan, measurements and locations of all obstructions is accurate, I will start the actual design phase. Producing an accurate floor plan is critical to the success of a well designed track plan.
The Finished Plan
When the plan is completed, the client will receive prints scales to 1 inch equals 1 foot (1:12). One print will contain the information needed to construct the benchwork's top sub-roadbed layer. I do not include under top sub-roadbed detail for two reasons; (1) the time it takes to design the sub-benchwork would double the design time and cost, and 2) each client has different levels of carpentry skills. Designing under benchwork detail to fit each clients skill level is highly impractical and would further increased the cost.
The other 1:12 print will contain an outline of the benchwork fascia, track centerlines, manufacturer SKU numbers, curved track radius numbers, slope percentages, etc. Plus, instructions on how to use an architects ruler to accurately transpose the 1:12 track location measurements to the full size benchwork.
Along with the black & white prints. A full color print will scaled to 12:1 and contain all the detailed scenes to help the client better visualize the overall design. The color print is suitable for framing. Clients will also receive inventory lists of track materials and structure's for the design.
Also attached is a list of companies I recommend for additional services including; 1:1 full size track prints, full color high quality photo backdrops, electrical schematic drawings specific to the clients track plan, signaling system information and design, and general model railroad supplies.
There are no additional charges for making reasonable adjustments or modifications to the original plan. However, a complete re-designs will be charged at my current hourly rate. All original files remain the sole property of - The Track Planner. I reserve the right to use the design in any track plan design in future advertising.