Of interest, the original article submitted by Carl Van Veen to the CMRS publication The Orderboard proposing the Calgary Free-mo was unearthed recently. Here is the text from the September, 2002 article:
A MODULAR DESIGN FOR CALGARY MODELERS.
As our February train show has become more popular, people have been inquiring about new groups or clubs with modular layouts. Right now there are no new clubs or groups. Quite a few round-robin groups exist, some more formal than others. Most of the modular club layouts are actually sectional layouts that must be assembled using a set number of modules in a specific order and design. These groups usually have a maximum number of members that may actively participate. There are pluses and minuses to this type of club.
I propose a truly modular, 100% inter-changeable design that will permit the greatest flexibility in design and set-up possibilities. This could be organized as a collective (group) rather than a formal club. This would allow the maximum number of people to participate and permit a level of commitment that suits individual needs.
Recently the NMRA module design was published in the Order Board. This sparked a thought process that would potentially meet the needs of the Calgary modeler. A tried, tested & true module with limited scenery capability (track up front, scenery & buildings behind), usually assembled into a large oval with roundy round train operation. A solid but outdated design.
After many years of development, a new generation of HO module design has been gaining popularity. Its name: Free-mo.
Free-mo module design is based on a single track mainline centered on the 2-foot width. Any length of straight module (within reason) may be built. Various angles of corner module may be used to assemble any shape of layout. Rather than try to assemble a continuous run oval, Free-mo runs from multi-track staging return loops or staging yards placed at each end of the assembled modules.
The only down fall is the limited capacity of a single track mainline. When using the Free-mo system an individual may have to build 3 or 4 modules to assemble a decent length passing siding. Besides the cost and time involved in building these extra modules an individual would have to set-up these 3 or 4 modules. Even with help, this is stressful and time consuming. What if the individual didn’t show up with his passing siding modules?
The best solution might be using the original Free -mo design and applying a double track mainline, splitting the mains an inch each side of the module centre line. There are many advantages to this. Each modeler could build just one module (This will accelerate the set up and tear down process) and include a single crossover built with a pair of #8 turnouts.
Some modelers may want to include a control point; a matched set of right and left crossovers. By incorporating these crossovers into the modules, passing arrangements and operating flexibility is built right into any layout design. Modules can be flipped 180 degrees to get the proper mix of right and left crossovers in the correct spot for maximum train handling flexibility. The control system used by these modules is DCC. This train handling technology has made the true flexibility of Free-mo a possibility.
As you can see, I’m very excited about the potential of this modular design. For those interested, more information can be obtained at: http://www.free-mo.org/ You may want to check out the related literature & links category and click on the Northwest Trainmasters site, which has clear and detailed information.
A table will be set up at the fall mini-meet with information and a possible display. In the meantime, I look forward to hearing your feedback on this new exciting module opportunity. I can be reached at: cnvanveen@shaw.ca -Carl Van Veen