Modules Part I

On Sunday night it was decided to begin construction on a couple of modules.  I do not know yet if these will become a layout, or if they will be photography dioramas.  So far I've only spent about 30 buck each on them for the foam and wood, that should be about half the cost total.  Each module is 1x3 feet and 5.5 inches thick.  1.5 inches of that is 1x2 lumber making up a frame and the rest is foam.  Below you can see the construction up until this point:

Photo by James Willmus

 Here is the overall setup for the module.  It's small and light enough to be used on top of a camera tripod.  I'll have to work on getting newer, better tripods as the head on this Vanguard has been cracked for years and is getting worse.  In the center of the module is a 1/4x20 insert so that a bolt can be anchored into the lumber.  If need be, it is possible to make a tall sawhorse and run a bolt up into the module.  These things are also light enough and small enough that they could be combined in the future to form a 6 foot long, more permanent section.

Photo by James Willmus

The framework for each module is simple.  Two 1x2's form the endplates of the module, creating a surface area to clamp together.  Between the two endplates is a 1x2 spine that serves as an anchoring point for bolts, screws, future bench work, etc...  The 4 inches of foam ought to be plenty strong on such a small module that it shouldn't need heavier lumber.  The foam is glued together using expanding foam.  It's safe, easy to use, a can of the stuff lasts a while, and very strong when the joints are staggered.  I got this idea from Ken Patterson, a great photographer and model railroader who is worth learning from.  His site can be found here: http://kenpatterson.com/.  You may know of him from Model Railroad Hobbyist.  He is a regular contributor and the creator of "What's Neat with Ken Patterson," a monthly show on MRH's YouTube page.

Photo by James Willmus

Here is my proud 2-6-0 sitting on top of the module.  All we need now is track, scenery and a hardboard fascia.  The entire module will be wrapped in 1/8th inch hardboard to protect the foam and provide smooth sides to clamp to.  It will also make the module much more professional looking.

Photo by James Willmus

And here is the photo shoot at work.  If nothing else, each module will make a great photography diorama so that's worth keeping in mind if you want to shoot photos of your rolling stock.  Another reason to have a hardboard fascia installed is to provide a clamping surface for backdrops or foreground mini modules.  Notice how the joints on the foam stagger.  Just like building with bricks, stacking foam in such a manner makes the module stronger.  There is a slight upward bow in the foam due to the spray foam which expands to fill gaps. I'll need to figure out a way to keep the foam board flat enough.  For this first module though, it's plenty.