Whistle Sim

A steam train whistle simulator. Based on a J-3 type locomotive No. 576.

This is a simple app to simulate the pull of a whistle rope. Rather than just an off-on soundboard, this one simulates the actual pull of the whistle valve using effects available in the Unity engine. Some other background sound options are available as well.

Other whistles and horns might be added if requested by reviewers.

Backstory: The Nashville Steam Preservation Society is working to restore a J3 steam locomotive No. 576 that has sat idle for more than 65 years. After gathering support, NSPS was able to raise enough funds to move the 576 to the Tennessee Central Railway Museum where it will be restored for steam powered excursion passenger service for Nashville, TN. To celebrate, NSPS is hosting a revival event to celebrate the future removal of the locomotive from the park and the beginning of the process of rebuilding her for service. Previous fundraiser events have involved the whistle from the locomotive being powered by compressed air, but it just doesn't sound right without being on the locomotive with a full head of steam. For special events during the restoration we connect a whistle pull rope to a computer input and simulate the real whistle with PA speakers using this app. There was no app or program available that could do what was desired and sound realistic so NSPS member Alex Mullins set to work to make this app using the Unity engine.