RailScanPro can use photos to help identify model railroad equipment. The AI result is a starting point, not a final authority. You should always review the suggested fields before saving the item.
Start a Photo-First Add
- Open Asset Management.
- Select Add Asset.
- Choose Photo First, or go directly to
/app/asset-management/add/photo-first. - Upload one or more photos.
- Select the primary photo.
- Label photo orientation when you can, such as left, right, front, rear, top, or bottom.
- Choose the identification system or leave it on auto-detect.
- Select Process with AI.
If AI analysis is unavailable, you can continue with manual entry.
What the AI Looks For
AI recognition works best when the photo clearly shows:
- Road name.
- Reporting mark.
- Road number.
- Livery and color pattern.
- Body shape.
- Cab, roof, truck, and end details.
- Manufacturer or builder markings when visible.
Multiple photos help when one side is shadowed, a number appears only on one end, or a model has different details on each side.
Review Before Saving
After processing, compare the AI suggestions against the actual model. Pay special attention to:
- Manufacturer.
- Road name.
- Reporting mark and road number.
- Equipment type.
- Scale.
- Era.
- Condition.
- Decoder or DCC information.
- Notes.
Correct anything that is wrong before saving. If the AI is uncertain, save the item manually and add photos for future reference.
When AI Is Less Certain
Manual review matters most for:
- Weathered models where lettering is hidden.
- Undecorated or brass models.
- Kitbashed, freelanced, or custom-painted equipment.
- Small-scale models with tiny markings.
- Obscure shortlines or private-owner equipment.
- Blurry, dark, reflective, or cropped photos.