About L-Gauge Modular System
The L-Gauge Modular Standard (LGMS) began development in 2018, with the intention of creating a modular layout format for LEGO® train enthusiasts to easily plan and build collaborative group displays big and small. Rather than designing a large group train display in a freehand manner, each participant brings a section of layout, or “module” that adheres to specific measurements, functional guidelines, and appearance requirements so that any module can connect to any other module from any other participant in any configuration, resulting in a layout that provides for reliable operation of trains and a highly detailed & composed appearance.
LGMS was inspired in part by conventional scale modular railroading concepts such as Ntrak and Free-Mo. Ntrak is centered around two-by-four-foot modules with a triple-track mainline, while Free-Mo allows modules of any shape and size. In both Ntrak and Free-Mo, the key to their modular functionality is the universal connection between modules, which are created by adhering to prescribed rules on track standards and module construction. A Free-Mo module owner from Wyoming can bring their module to a Free-Mo meet in Massachusetts, or multiple Ntrak clubs can easily connect their layouts together at a convention, confident that their standards-compliant modules will readily connect to one another. The resulting displays command a large presence at model railroad expos, sometimes incorporating hundreds of modules and filling entire exhibition halls with a single layout!
In the same spirit, the L-Gauge Modular Standard provides a platform for LEGO model railroaders to build modules and participate in group displays together. A participant can build their module alone, or collaborate with other builders to create a large module. Likewise, an LGMS layout could be assembled by only a few people using a minimum number of modules, or dozens of participants bringing all manner of module sizes. LGMS participants are not required to be affiliated with a LEGO® User Group (LUG) or LEGO® Train Club (LTC), nor is The L-Gauge Modular Standard meant to replace existing standards that LUGs and LTCs use for their own layouts, although some clubs have chosen to adopt the standard.
In its current form, LGMS is focused around a double-track mainline with a handful of module types such as straight modules, corner modules, T-junctions and return loops. Continued development of the standard will see the addition of branch line modules, non-rectangular modules, and provisions for realistic operation of trains. The strength in the standard lies in the number of L-gauge model railroaders who participate in layouts, so build a module and join us!