TransDEM Tutorial - Basic Trainz Route from Scratch

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of creating a basic Trainz route from scratch using TransDEM. You'll learn how to generate elevation data, overlays, and track splines, essential for building an immersive Trainz experience. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this step-by-step guide will provide you with clear instructions.

Step 1: Download Starting Map Tile

• Visit the SRTM website: SRTM Map
• Select the desired map tile based on your location.
• Download the map tile in a suitable format for TransDEM.

Step 2: Create Route Path

• Open TransDEM and create a new project.
• Use the built-in tools to define the route path by clicking on your starting point and dragging to your endpoint.
• Adjust points along the route for accurate alignment with your desired path.

Step 3: Download Map Images Along Route Path

• Navigate to the map download section in TransDEM.
• Input the coordinates or select areas around your route.
• Download the necessary map images for reference.

Step 4: Generate Elevation Data

• Go to the elevation data section in TransDEM.
• Use the downloaded SRTM data to create elevation profiles for your route.
• Ensure that the elevation data matches your route's terrain.

Step 5: Join Multiple DEM Files

• If your route spans multiple DEM files, import each one into TransDEM.
• Use the "Join" function to merge them into a single, cohesive elevation dataset.

Step 6: Prepare Java OpenStreetMap Editor

• Download JOSM from JOSM Website.
• Install the software and configure it for use with TransDEM.
• Familiarize yourself with the interface and tools available in JOSM.

Step 7: Download OSM Data Along Route Path

• In JOSM, select your route area.
• Use the download function to retrieve relevant OpenStreetMap (OSM) data.
• Ensure that the data includes railway and road information.

Step 8: Create Railway Data Filter

• In JOSM, apply a filter to isolate railway data.
• This will help focus on the necessary elements for your route creation.

Step 9: Download Missing OSM Data

• Check for any missing railway data that may not have been included in the initial download.
• Use JOSM to fill in these gaps.

Step 10: Create OSM Data Layer for Railway

• Organize the downloaded OSM data into a dedicated layer for your railway.
• This separation will make it easier to manage and export the data later.

Step 11: Export Railway Data to TransDEM

• Once your railway layer is complete, export the data from JOSM.
• Use the appropriate format for TransDEM to ensure compatibility.

Step 12: Create Highway and Road Filter

• Similar to the railway data, create a filter in JOSM for highway and road data.
• Focus on the roads that are relevant to your route.

Step 13: Export Highway and Roads to TransDEM

• Export the highway data layer from JOSM to TransDEM.
• Ensure all roads are correctly aligned with your railway route.

Step 14: Export Route to Trainz Format

• Use TransDEM's export function to convert your created route into Trainz format.
• Follow the prompts to finalize the export process.

Step 15: Import Route to Trainz Using Content Manager

• Open Trainz Content Manager.
• Import the exported route file and ensure it appears correctly.

Step 16: Examine Route In-Game

• Launch Trainz and navigate to your imported route.
• Test the route in-game to ensure everything functions as expected.

Conclusion

You have successfully created a basic Trainz route from scratch using TransDEM. Key takeaways include understanding how to download necessary data, utilize JOSM for OSM data management, and export your route for use in Trainz. Next, consider exploring more advanced features in TransDEM or experimenting with different terrains to enhance your route-building skills.