It's been a bit since the last post on this blog, and progress on the layout has hit a snag due to the monsoon climate. This forced me to relocate my workshop from the partially open terrace to the indoors. However, despite the challenges, there has been some headway, particularly in the development of the furniture (the table) and certain landscaping elements (like the Grass Mat). The table plays a crucial role in the overall layout, serving not only as a stand for model displays but also offering storage space for the model train sets and the electronic components that control and operate the Toporama Layout.
This table top was constructed using 12 mm X 100 mm Plywood Frame laminated on one sides. This 100 mm frame height was given to create a room for the storage of electronics and model train stock. The measurement is given given below.
The plywood frame received reinforcement through 12mm x 39mm runners, crafted from the same plywood and added on all sides. This served a triple purpose: firstly, to enhance the base's strength; secondly, to accommodate the model layout board through a piano hinge, ensuring a flush fit to the table top; and thirdly, to create a 6mm gap for supporting a glass cover over the completed model.
It's worth noting the use of PVC legs instead of wooden ones. This choice proved to be more cost-effective, easier, and quicker to construct. I opted for 50mm PVC tubes with T-joints and dummy covers for this purpose.
To secure the dummy cover to the table base, 8mm bolts were employed at each of the four corners. The pipe legs were cut to the desired length and assembled using T-joints to create the leg framework. These legs were then attached to the dummy cups, which had previously been bolted to the base of the table.
A comprehensive explanation of the table's functions and its various purposes is provided in the following YouTube video. Feel free to post any questions or comments, and I'll be happy to respond and engage in further discussion. Watch the video to delve into the details and don't hesitate to share your thoughts!
Landscaping
As described in the video, only challenge I faced was to raise the track level to about 1.5 Inches to allow the moving vehicles to pass under it. This caused the track length to be increase in the straight, it took me 3 hours to figure out and fix the layout without spoiling the actual design of the layout.
Storage Purpose
The storage space inside the table is divided to 3 parts, First part is for storing the train stock, the middle part used for power section, the last or the third part will be used to assemble all the electronics.
Heads up on the electronics to be used for Smart Control
In the previous blog video featuring the Touch Panel Demo, I hinted at the end that the Marklin Toporama Track system is set to be managed through an IoT-based smart control system. Stay tuned for further details and updates on this exciting development!
In our IoT control system, we're incorporating the ESP WIFI Module alongside the Arduino Mega Microcontroller, coupled with a custom-designed and developed web application tailored exclusively for the Toporama layout.
In a recent YouTube video, we delve into some of the supplementary components employed for the layout. These include the Arduino Mega - Breakout Screw Terminal Board, as well as the DB 25 Connection bus, facilitating the seamless transfer of connections from various layout elements to the central control board. For a more in-depth understanding, check out the video for a detailed breakdown of these integral components.
Exciting news! Our upcoming topic will focus on the detailed wiring and assembling of the control system. We encourage you to share your questions and comments either on the Super Hobbies Tube Channel or here on the superhobbies.in blog page.
Stay tuned for the latest updates and insights. Until then, take care and stay safe! 🚂✨