Here are some preliminary pictures of a new Porta-Trax system I've developed for our d'nano in-school leagues.
This project draws on the many tests that we conducted on running surfaces, infield materials, and improvement to/adaptation of, the Porta-Trax rail system. The new track system will be used in our Canadian school racing leagues, beginning 2010. That market called for the development of portable, roll-up tracks with a 10 minute setup time; and since none existed, this project was born to see if that was feasible, and if the d'nano itself was a good candidate for the school league. Eight months later, the answer is "yes" and "yes" to both those questions.
Depending on interest, this system may be sold as a ready-to-run, as a kit or as an 'open system', in that you would be able to buy the track components you wanted separately... for example, the base, the rail systems or infield system. The system is expandable, and the entire infield layout is easily changed in less than 10 minutes. (The 10 minute setup goal is possible with an oval, this design would take 15-20 minutes).
This particular track uses a completely seamless base and is 14'x6', but any size or shape can be built using this system, including multi-level or even exact replicas of full-scale race tracks. (I've always wanted to build Germany's Nürburgring)
The pictures below are of the very first prototype, constructed to test the base material -- this is still very much work-in-progress. (The rail system, although elegant, needs to be simplified, and there will be some changes to the infield material and the adjustable corner run-off strips).
I also need to get the material costs way down, as the rails system and infield designs are expensive.
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The goal was to build a portable track system for home use (and our school leagues) with the same scale detail as the d'nano, while offering the very best racing experience by letting the d'nano use all its speed and handling. This particular layout, with its banked corners coming off the main straight is very fast (beyond my driving skills) and is designed to reward a carefully chosen racing line, just as in full-scale racing. To slow things down with the same layout, I simply add to the warning ramps that change the racing line, as shown in the bottom picture.
Another major difference between this system and other tracks is the variable radius corners and sweeping chicanes that narrow into a "chute", just like an Indy Car or FIA course ... you have to pick your spots to pass. Lane widths are 22 inches on the main straight, narrowing to as little as 15 inches in portions of the chicanes. Templates would be made available for other widths and course designs -- useful if the HPI 1/32 class catches on. By making the system 'open' and thus allowing hobbyists to purchase the raw materials, I'm sure it would only be a matter of time before many interesting designs were built using the system.
The rails have considerable 'give' so that cars will not be damaged, cars will not get stuck on rails (but riding the rails will slow you down)
The whole system is completely portable and rolls-up for easy storage.
Let me know what you think...
