Operating question

[Brakie]

Kevin wrote:Remember, it is impossible to operate a model railroad exactly like the prototype because of compromises we make:
1) We have no real connection to the outside world.
2) Our model freight cars don't really carry anything
3) Spatial compression.
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Now you didn't think I would let this slide did ya?
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1) We have no real connection to the outside world.
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We don't? Sure we do.
This is why its suggested cars taken to the interchange track be taken off the layout.See the "real" connection? Those cars are now gone.
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2) Our model freight cars don't really carry anything
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True and our locomotives doesn't run on steam or diesel fuel but,add sound we get the illusion our locomotives are operating by steam or diesel motor operating on diesel fuel.The use of waybills makes that stale air inside of our cars valuable "cargo"..Waybills adds the illusion that we are indeed hauling "freight".
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3) Spatial compression.
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That age old enemy can be conquered by using larger industries instead of several smaller industries.After all 3-4 large industries that looks like they need freight cars(and some times can use more then 1 type) more then a industry that looks small even with a 40' boxcar sitting at its dock.
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The concept of operation is a illusion that we are modeling a transportation system and that's why many of us try to emulate the prototype in our operation..