2023 TEXAS EXPRESS
Model Railroading Clinics

Updated 09/09/2022

Clinic Presenter Dave Ackmann




Dave Ackmann is a member of the Gateway Division of the NMRA in St Louis, Missouri. His railroad, the Baden, Vogt & DeSmet, is a 250 square foot freelance layout in HO, utilizing DCC. Dave likes to explore the use of technology in model railroading, and shares his experiences frequently at NMRAx and virtually with Divisions across North America. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, a Master’s in Computer Science, AP Certificates for Author, Volunteer, and Electrical Engineering, and also enjoys woodworking and classical choral singing.



CLINIC #1 of 2 - FIRE!

One of the most exciting animation effects for model railroading is fire. From campfires, fireplaces and dumpster fires to full scale building and forest fires, these effects can add much to any layout. This clinic will cover how these effects can be created, and will present some theatrical techniques to simulate fire visual and sound effects.



CLINIC #2 of 2 - Automating CAD for Structures - Part 2

Have you tried Dave Ackmann’s form-based technique for creating model railroad structures for 3D Printing? Introduced in the summer of 2022, Dave’s “Generator” programs make it easy to fill out a form with design specifications for buildings, roofing, windows and more, and at the push a button generate specifications for a 3D model. Come see what Dave has been developing in the last year: Rafters, Canopies, Staircases, Louvers, Billboard Supports and more. Learn how to combine simple “primitive design elements” into more complex structures. If you are interested in printing your own custom designed structures, but are reluctant to invest in learning complex Computer Aided Design software, this clinic is for you.