====== Laying Tracks ======

===== Overview =====

In this section you will learn how to place railway tracks in your map using the Railtool.  
Placing tracks comes with several important considerations and requires basic familiarity with the Unreal Editor.

If you are not yet comfortable with Unreal Editor navigation and controls, please take some time to familiarize yourself before continuing.

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===== Initial Setup: RailwaySubSystem =====

==== Placing the RailwaySubSystem Blueprint ====

The first step is to place the **RailwaySubSystem** master Blueprint into your level.

This Blueprint acts as the central configuration point for all railway-related systems and defines:
  * Superstructures
  * Data Layers
  * Track behavior settings

To place it:
  * Open the **Content Drawer**
  * Navigate to **SubwaySim2_Modding Content**
  * Locate the Blueprint **BP_RailwaySubSystem**
  * Drag it into your level

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:tracks1.png?direct&800|}}

Select the Blueprint in the **World Outliner** and set its position in the **Details** panel to:
X = 0.000000 / Y = 0.000000

This ensures the subsystem is positioned correctly.

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===== Railway System 2 Settings =====

With **BP_RailwaySubSystem** selected, scroll down in the **Details** panel to the section **Railway System 2**.

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:tracks2.png?direct&400|}}

This section contains all settings required before placing tracks.

==== Data Layer Channels ====

The **Data Layer Channels** section defines which Data Layers the Railtool can use.

These include:
  * Superstructure Data Layers
  * Guide Rail Data Layers
  * Third Rail Data Layers
  * Custom Data Layers

You can:
  * Add a channel using the **+** button
  * Remove a channel using the **Trash** icon

Each channel consists of the following fields:

^ Property ^ Description ^
| Channel Id | Automatically assigned index. Channel 1 should always be the Superstructure. |
| Name | Name of the Data Layer. |
| Default Value | Default value applied when no track data is set. |
| Type | Data Layer type: Side, Superstructure, String, Integer, Float |
| Directional | If enabled, the Data Layer is applied only in one direction. Default is both directions. |

Once **Guide Rails**, **Third Rails**, and other infrastructure elements are configured in your Superstructure, the Data Layer Channels section will contain multiple entries.

This typically includes:
  * A **Superstructure** Data Layer
  * One or more **Guide Rail** Data Layers
  * A **Third Rail** Data Layer
  * Additional custom Data Layers

One commonly used custom Data Layer is **Tunnel**.

The **Tunnel** Data Layer is used to mark tunnel sections along the track.  
When applied, it ensures tunnel areas are treated correctly by the game, including proper lighting behavior.

Without this Data Layer, tunnel sections may appear incorrectly lit or not fully dark during gameplay.

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:datalayer1.png?direct&400|}}

==== Superstructure Data Assets ====

In this section, you add all Superstructure Data Assets that should be available for track creation.

These assets define:
  * Rail geometry
  * Sleeper meshes
  * Ballast
  * Clamps
  * Guide Rail and Third Rail behavior

Make sure all required Superstructures are added here before placing tracks.

==== Superelevation ====

Superelevation describes the banking of tracks in curves to compensate for centrifugal forces.

The Railtool supports automatic superelevation using the following parameters:

^ Property ^ Default ^ Description ^
| Max Super Elevation Change Millimeter Per Sec | 50.0 | Maximum change per second |
| Max Super Elevation Change Millimeter Per Meter | 2.25 | Maximum change per meter |
| Super Elevation Shortfall Millimeter | 100.0 | Allowed deviation / tolerance |

These default values are suitable for most cases and can be adjusted depending on track design and realism requirements.

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===== Entering Rail Mode =====

After setting up the RailwaySubSystem correctly, we can begin placing tracks.

Open the **Mode Selection** in the Unreal Editor and switch to **Simuverse Rail Mode**.

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:tracks3.png?direct&800|}}

⚠️ Important:  
Tracks can **ONLY** be created, edited, or removed in **Simuverse Rail Mode**.  
Do **not** delete track meshes in **Selection Mode**, as this can cause severe rendering and logic issues within the Railtool.

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===== Rail Mode Interface =====

When entering Simuverse Rail Mode, a tool panel appears on the **left side** of the editor.

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:tracks4.png?direct&400|}}

==== Left Sidebar Overview ====

=== Data Layers ===

This section controls how Data Layers are handled on tracks.

  * **Convert to Directional**  
    Converts existing Data Layers into directional layers, allowing different values depending on track direction.

=== Mode ===

Defines the active editing mode.  
You can switch between the following modes using the dropdown menu:

  * **Track Control**  
    Used for creating, connecting, and editing track control points.

  * **Height Control**  
    Used to adjust vertical alignment and elevation of tracks.

  * **Data Layer**  
    Used to assign or modify Data Layer values along track segments.

=== Debug ===

Debugging tools to visualize and inspect track behavior.

  * **Display Rail Intersections**  
    Displays intersections and connection points between tracks.

  * **Switch Switches to Current Track**  
    Forces switches to align with the currently selected track.

=== Parameters ===

General configuration values for track placement.

  * **Ground Offset Meters**  
    Defines the vertical offset of tracks above the ground.  
    Default value: **0.5 meters**

=== Debug and Fix ===

Tools for cleaning up and repairing track data.

  * **Cleanup Invalid Controlpoints and Segments**  
    Removes invalid or corrupted control points and track segments from the map.

=== Editor Camera ===

Camera helper functions for navigating complex track layouts.

  * **Focus Control Point**  
    Moves the editor camera to the control point specified by ID.

  * **Focus Control Point ID**  
    The control point number used for focusing the camera.

=== Extra ===

Advanced diagnostic and maintenance tools.

  * **Check Track System**  
    Scans the entire track system for errors or inconsistencies.

  * **Refresh and Check Imported Switches**  
    Validates imported switches and refreshes their data.

  * **Refresh Transition Curve Length**  
    Recalculates transition curve length for smooth geometry and correct superelevation behavior.

  * **Re-Register Console Commands**  
    Re-registers Railtool-related console commands in case they were lost.

  * **Check Track Step Size CM**  
    Validates the internal step size (cm) used for mesh generation.

=== Parallel Tool ===

Tools for creating parallel tracks.

  * **Create Parallel Track**  
    Creates a new track parallel to the selected one.

  * **Parallel Offset Meters**  
    Defines the distance between selected and parallel track.

  * **Create Parallel Tracks**  
    If enabled, track meshes are generated immediately.  
    If disabled, only control points are created.

=== Track Control ===

Core tools for managing track geometry.

  * **Create Intersection**  
    Creates a connecting control point between two existing control points.

  * **Destroy Track Meshes**  
    Removes all generated track meshes from the map.

  * **Disconnect Selected Control Points**  
    Breaks the connection between selected control points.

  * **Force Reset All Track Meshes**  
    Resets all track meshes to their default state.

  * **Generate Track Meshes**  
    Regenerates all track meshes on the map.

  * **Linearize Control Points**  
    Aligns the middle point (of three) into a straight line.

  * **Mark Close Segments**  
    Highlights segments that are placed too close to each other.

At this point, the Rail Mode interface should be fully understood, and you are ready to begin placing and shaping track geometry.


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===== Understanding Track Placement =====

Before we start placing tracks, it is important to understand how track placement works in SubwaySim 2.

Unlike classic spline-based tools, the Railtool uses **Control Points**.

==== Control Points Instead of Spline Points ====

Control Points describe:
  * Track direction
  * Curve radius
  * Transition behavior
  * Connections between track segments

Example: an **S-curve** can be defined using only **four Control Points**:
  * Entry direction
  * First curve transition
  * Second curve transition
  * Exit direction

This mirrors real-world railway alignment planning and ensures:
  * Smooth geometry
  * Predictable curvature
  * Proper superelevation handling

(See the attached diagram.)

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:tracks5.png?direct&400|}}

==== Advantages of the Control Point System ====

  * Fewer points for complex track shapes
  * Cleaner and more readable layouts
  * More realistic curves and transitions
  * Easier maintenance and modification
  * Better compatibility with switches and intersections

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===== Creating Your First Track =====

Now we can begin creating our first track.

==== Creating Control Points ====

To create a Control Point:
  * Hold **CTRL**
  * **Left-click** on the Landscape

Repeat at another position:
  * Hold **CTRL**
  * **Left-click** at a different location

A straight track segment will be generated between the points.

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:tracks6.png?direct&800|}}

==== Recreating the Example Layout ====

Recreate the layout shown in the diagram by placing Control Points for:
  * Straights
  * Curves
  * Smooth transitions

Your track should look similar to the example below:

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:tracks7.png?direct&800|}}

==== Editing a Control Point for Curves ====

To shape curves:
  * Select a Control Point
  * Open the **Details** panel

If Control Points are hard to select:
  * Move the camera around
  * Click from a different angle
  * Zoom in closer

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===== Control Point Parameters Explained =====

When selecting a Control Point, the Details panel exposes parameters for curve behavior, transitions, and superelevation.

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:tracks8.png?direct&400|}}

==== Curve Radius Settings ====

^ Parameter ^ Description ^
| **Desired Blue Radius** | Target curve radius of the blue control line. |
| **Actual Blue Radius** | Currently generated radius for the blue line. |
| **Desired Green Radius** | Target curve radius of the green control line. |
| **Actual Green Radius** | Currently generated radius for the green line. |

==== Superelevation Settings ====

^ Parameter ^ Description ^
| **Vmax (km/h)** | Internal value for superelevation calculations (not in-game max speed). |
| **Superelevation Override [mm]** | Manual override for calculated shortfall. |
| **Superelevation [mm]** | Currently applied superelevation in millimeters. |
| **Superelevation Transitioncurve Length** | Length for gradual banking change. |
| **Minimal Transitioncurve Length** | Minimum allowed transition length. |

==== Transition Curve Settings ====

^ Parameter ^ Description ^
| **Desired Transitioncurve Length** | Target transition curve length. |
| **Actual Transitioncurve Length Red** | Actual length on the red side. |
| **Actual Transitioncurve Length Blue** | Actual length on the blue side. |
| **Maximum Transitioncurve Length Red** | Maximum allowed on red side. |
| **Maximum Transitioncurve Length Blue** | Maximum allowed on blue side. |

==== Superelevation Connection ====

^ Parameter ^ Description ^
| **Connect Superelevation Red** | Connects banking to the red neighboring segment. |
| **Connect Superelevation Blue** | Connects banking to the blue neighboring segment. |

==== Switch-Related Settings ====

^ Parameter ^ Description ^
| **Switch Motor Placement** | Side of track for switch motor placement. |
| **Switch Motor Type** | Manual or electrically driven. |

==== Transform Settings ====

^ Parameter ^ Description ^
| **Location** | World-space XYZ location of the Control Point. |

Understanding these parameters enables precise control over track geometry and realistic results.

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===== Creating Switches =====

In this section we will create our first switch.

==== Creating the Base Tracks ====

Create a straight track using two Control Points. Then:
  * Select both Control Points with **SHIFT + Left Click**
  * Enable the **Parallel Tool**
  * Click **Create Parallel Track**

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:tracks9.png?direct&800|}}

A second, parallel track is created.

==== Gizmo Setup (Important) ====

For precise duplication and movement:
  * Set the gizmo coordinate system to **Local**
  * Align it to the **track axis**

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:tracks10.png?direct&800|}}

==== Aligning the Gizmo Rotation ====

  * Press **M** to cycle gizmo rotation modes
  * Align the gizmo with the track direction

==== Duplicating Control Points ====

For the first track:
  * Select a Control Point
  * Hold **ALT**
  * Drag it along the track direction

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:tracks12.png?direct&800|}}

Repeat on the parallel track and offset slightly to create the diverging branch.

==== Connecting Control Points to Create a Switch ====

  * Select one Control Point
  * Hold **CTRL**
  * Left-click the other Control Point

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:tracks13.png?direct&800|}}

The Railtool generates a switch between the two tracks.

==== Editing the Switch ====

You can refine a switch by:
  * Moving Control Points
  * Changing curve radius
  * Adjusting switch motor type
  * Adjusting motor placement

The Railtool displays the frog type in red text and in the Control Point Details panel.

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===== Height Control Points =====

The Railtool also supports vertical geometry using **Height Control Points**.

==== Creating Height Control Points ====

  * Open the **Mode** dropdown
  * Select **Height Control**
  * Hold **CTRL**
  * Left-click directly on the track

==== Defining Track Elevation ====

Select a Height Control Point and adjust:

^ Parameter ^ Description ^
| **Desired Radius Meters** | Target radius for vertical transitions. |
| **Current Radius Meters** | Calculated and applied radius. |

The Railtool calculates:
  * Gradients between points
  * Smooth vertical transitions

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:tracks14.png?direct&800|}}

==== Important Notes ====

  * Height Control Points affect only vertical alignment
  * Horizontal geometry remains unchanged
  * Avoid placing points too close together

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===== Working with Data Layers =====

Data Layers define additional track properties such as:
  * Third Rail
  * Guide Rails
  * Tunnel markers
  * Speed limits

To work with Data Layers:
  * Open the **Mode** dropdown
  * Select **Data Layers**

==== Data Layer Mode – Settings Overview ====

^ Setting ^ Description ^
| **Mode** | Direction behavior of the Data Layer. |
| **Add Channel** | Selects which channel is applied. |
| **Visualize Channel** | Visual overlay for a selected channel. |

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:datalayer2.png?direct&800|}}

==== Mode Settings ====

^ Option ^ Description ^
| **Unidirectional** | Applies in both directions (e.g. Third Rail, Tunnel). |
| **Bidirectional** | Applies only in one direction (e.g. Speed Limits). |

==== Placing a Data Layer (Example: Third Rail) ====

  * Hover over a segment (highlighted orange)
  * Left-click to set a start point
  * Move along the track
  * Left-click again to set the end point

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:datalayer3.png?direct&800|}}

==== Assigning the Data Layer ====

  * Open **Add Channel**
  * Select **ThirdRail**
  * Choose placement: None / Left / Right / Both
  * Select **Left**

{{:manual:subwaysim:laying_tracks:datalayer4.png?direct&800|}}

==== Visualizing Data Layers ====

Optional:
  * Open **Visualize Channel**
  * Select **Third Rail**

==== Removing or Modifying Data Layers ====

  * Select a track section
  * Open **Add Channel**
  * Set value to **None** or **Clear**

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===== Conclusion =====

With this, the basic principles of track placement have been explained.

Creating clean and realistic railway layouts requires practice.  
We recommend studying the tracks used in the **SampleModMap** to learn proper Control Point placement, curve design, and Data Layer usage.

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===== Next Step =====

With the track layout completed, including curves, switches, height profiles, and Data Layers, your map’s railway infrastructure is now in place.

The next step is to prepare the map for use in SubwaySim 2 by configuring all required settings and validating the setup.

→ **[[manual:subwaysim:map_construction:prepare_map|Prepare Map]]**


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