PURPOSE
The model's sole purpose is to engage the general public, especially children, in an educational experience.
The educational focus is on the history and use of Hobo Codes, notably along and around America's railroads. Model railroad operation provides a setting but operation is not the prime purpose of the display.
The model scene will be 1920's to 1930's America with all scenery correct for that period.
The model will be small town rural with station, merchant stores, homes, farm, school, post office etc.
The model surface will be about 28 inches above floor level.
The model will feature an operating locomotive with several period cars and a caboose.
All track will be level for consistency of train speed and simplicity of operation.
The locomotive/train will park at a station. Upon pressing a button (by a visitor), the train will make one loop and stop again at the station awaiting another press of the button.
The model will feature a hobo camp with working campfire (always on).

DESIGN
The model will be on public display and will operate five and sometimes six days per week.
For simplicity and reliability the train will operate on DC current from a commerical power pack.
The power pack will be hidden from view but accessible by museum staff.
The power pack will have a mechanical govenor to limit maximum speed of the train.
The model will feature sound effects for farm, train whistle, etc operated by push button.
The model may feature lights in and around structures operated by push buttons.
The model may feature a working traffic light at one road intersection.
The model may feature flashing crossing lights at one or two grade crossings.
The model may contain other button operated animation as availability and budget permits.
The 4x6 display will have one 4ft end against a wall but all sides will be finished to allow alternate positions. Track will be code83 and weathered for a realistic appearance.
Structures, equipment and scenery will be weathered for realism. No shiny roof tops or bright primary colors.
Turnouts (switches) will not operate and may be simiulated or "locked" in position.
For simplicity of operation a "gap" section of track powered by pushbutton will stop/start the train.
The outer edge of benchwork will accomodate addition by NCM of a glass or plastic fence to shield public reach.
A project manager will exercise creative control over the project and is responsible for its appearance and functionality.

MAINTENANCE - LIFE CYCLE
Materials and construction should be chosen to support a usable life of at least five years.
Layout will be constructed with consideration to transportation and access through NCM double doors.
At least two locomotives will be included to ensure one is always available and periodic cleaning/lubrication of the other.
All cars will have metal wheelsets to reduce maintenance.
All cars will have metal KD couplers for reliability.
The layout will be cleaned and maintained by MARRS volunteers on a TBD schedule dictated by enviroment and usage.
Upon installation in NCM space, a maintenance kit will be provided (touch up paints, glues, lubricants, fuses, etc.)

EXECUTION
All volunteers will read and follow this Concept of Operations.
All volunteers will provide an internet email address as primary means of communication for project coordination.
Volunteers will provice information as needed to keep the Project Plan/Schedule up to date.
Volunteers will frequently check the Events page for information pertinent to their participation.
Only the project manager will expend funds with expectation of rembursement from NCM.
The project manager will exercise economy and best judgement in purchasing materials.
The project manager will purchase materials locally as far as possible to avoid shipping and transportation costs.
The project manager will account for all expenditures and materials in writing through completion of the project.
The project manager will provide a build and storage site in Savage MD.
The project manager and volunteers will use thier own tools as needed.
Sub-assemblies may be built other than at the build site by MARRS members subject to coordination with the project manager.
All materials will be stored and used at the build site unless checked out to a MARRS member for work elsewhere.
Work checked out to a MARRS member will have a scheduled completion date.
Materials checked out to a MARRS member will have a scheduled return date.
MARRS members will not purchase materials or tools with expectation of reimbursement.
Upon completion the layout will be transported to NCM, installed and tested.
At completion of the project any remaining materials not included in the layout or the maintenance kit and refused by NCM will be sold.
MARRS members who have participated in the project will have first option to purchase any material residue.
Other MARRS members will have second option to purchase any remaining material residue.
After 30 days, materials will be disposed of in public auction.
Proceeds of sales or auction will be provided to NCM minus any reasonable auction fees.
The project manager reserves the right to modify this conop as needed to ensure completion of a quality product on time and within budget.