MATT LOVELL looks at the animatronic scenic items in the Viessmann eMotion range.
The main part of a model railway that draws modellers young and old to a layout is running trains, but even the most scenically detailed model can look a little still.
A few years ago Viessmann introduced a small range of moving figures in OO/HO Scale, including painters, a chimney sweep, and even a man sitting on the loo. Since then lots of additional figures have been added to the range and now even the smallest of layouts can have some interactive movement installed on to it to draw the eye.
These figures are easy to install and all you need to make them function is a 16v supply. You can also install an on–off switch for greater control. To install these models you will need a 12mm drill bit to make a large enough hole in your baseboard to insert the wires and solenoid. You then need to insert the holding ring to the solenoid to hold it in place. Lastly you need attach the wires to a suitable supply.
The wiring diagram above shows how you can wire up the supply via the switch to the figure. The optional sound module available for some figures is also shown.
VN1515 Wood Chopper with Axe. The VN5570 Chopping Wood Sound Module syncs up with this figure.
Some of these models are fitted with tiny LEDs instead of motion solenoids. This enables them to flash and simulate camera flashes or firing guns.
VN1529 Hunter with Gun and VN1580 Deer with Moving Head. You can use the VN5574 Hunting Gunfire Sound Module to sync up.
The VN1551 Selfie Girl brings your layout right up to date with current trends.
In conjunction with some of these models, Viessmann have produced sound modules which can be linked with the figures and synchronise the movement with the sound. A particular favourite of mine is the wood chopper and the module to go with him as every time the axe is bought down you can hear the wood splitting from the module.
Other models which catch the eye of viewers to the layout are the Moving Water scenes. These models use the same principle as the e-motion figures but rather than moving the figure they move the water to simulate "flow". An example of this is on the VN1542 Firemen pack.
The motor needs to be installed in a burning building and the hose needs to be placed through an open/broken window. Once this model is activated the motor turns the hose simulating the water flow into the building. Combining this with one of the flickering fire LED kits and smoke units will give you a nice realistic scene of a house/building fire.
These models add a little bit of life to your layout, and with lots of great models available in the range the possible dioramas are almost endless.
CLICK HERE to view the full Viessmann eMotion range