Brake modules are electronic circuits that let locos with digital decoder brake smoothly on a section of track. The brake module generates a brake voltage to be fed to the track that is interpreted by suitable loco decoders, which then smoothly brake the loco. The brake voltage is basically just negative dc, but on the bogobit brake modules (except for the standard brake module) combined with a tailored current limit protection to avoid critical short circuits.
This working principle is known to märklin users as the "märklin brake module" and to DCC users as "brake on dc". It works with most of the original märklin decoders, and most compatible decoders. It also works with many DCC decoders, some of which need special configuration to support it. In some DCC decoders the voltage polarity is evaluated to achieve direction dependent braking.
Also märklin users need not live without direction dependent braking. The sophistated Bremsmodul Oneway can do this, as well.
The bogobit Bremsmodul Classic is characterised by its very easy track work, because it only needs one insulated track section. It does not need a transition or stop track as usual with many other brake modules. This simplifies track construction work and allows an easy upgrade from an already built, conventionally controlled layout to a digitally controlled layout. The length of the insulated section must be as long as the locos' longest braking distance.
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bogobit Bremsmodul Classic
With the prototype, a signal applies only in one direction. Locos in opposite direction just drive on. For your model railway this can be done with the "bogobit Bremsmodul Oneway Simplex". To detect the driving direction, the track must be insulated into two sections. Current sensors in each section detect the loco and the brake module can take appropriate action.
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bogobit Bremsmodul Oneway Simplex
Station tracks (also in hidden yards) shall often be used by trains in both directions. To achieve a prototypical stop at the track's end in any direction, you do not some two brake modules (one for each end), but one Bremsmodul "Oneway Station" does it all for you. To detect the driving direction, the track must be insulated into three sections. Current sensors in each section detect the loco and the brake module can switch all sections over to brake voltage in the appropriate moment.
The "Bremsmodul Oneway Station" can also be used like the "Bremsmodul Oneway Simplex" to operate in one direction only. This mode requires only two track sections. But there is a little difference between the two, especially relevant to trains with more than one pickup shoe (double heading, car illumination). The "Bremsmodul Oneway Simplex" switches over to braking upon entering the first track section, the "Bremsmodul Oneway Station" switches over to braking upon entering the last track section. So if the first section is as long as the train, the entire track beneath the train is switched over, and no pickup shoe can disrupt operation.
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bogobit Bremsmodul Oneway Station
The Standard-Bremsmodul is a common circuit that can be found on various websites. It is the simplest way to build a brake module.
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Standard-Bremsmodul
bogobit · 2009-10-16