The M.A.T. goes mushroom

[Matthyro]

As talked about in Shamus's what are we going to do in the new year thread, here is my progress into the mushroom world.
In theory, a normal layout is about 52% efficient compared to the space available. The mushroom idea proposed by John Armstrong will provide about 85% efficiency.
Here is a rough sketch showing a cross section of a mushroom that will fit under the height of my basement beams.

 

[Matthyro]

First step was to build the raised floor. It is 15inches high, 3 feet wide and 19 feet long. It is constructed out of 2X4s and 2X6s

 

[Matthyro]

Here is the step up to the raised floor at one end. There is another step part way down one side

 

[Matthyro]

A view showing the length of the floor

 

[Matthyro]

I have made a start at the mushroom construction using L girders.
I have also installed ceiling tiles in this section

 

[Matthyro]

A photo of one side with the backdrop ready for painting and the foam base ready for track laying.

 

[Bob Collins]

Totally cool.

Now that I see what you are doing I realize that I have seen several articles in either MRR or RMC that deal with this kind of construction and layout.

Thanks for taking the time to educate this novice:thumb: :thumb:

Bob

 

[Ralph]

Robin,
Like Bob, I've seen articles about mushroom design. They sure seem to pack a lot of railroading in the space available! You will be the first person I've been able to talk to about this approach. Looking forward to more...say, what's happened to your current layout?
Best wishes on this ambitious project!
Ralph

 

[Arlaghan]

Brilliant! You can get a long run out of this... is this an extension to your layout or a new one? Do you have a trackplan?

 

[ezdays]

What is the width of the platforms you are going to put the layout on and how do you plan on getting from one level to the other?

This is very interesting.:thumb: :thumb:

Don

 

[Tyson Rayles]

Robin your layout was big (by my standards) before the mushroom, now it will be huge. Have you figured out how many zillions of scale miles your mainline will be?

 

[jon-monon]

Kewl!!!

I used to work at a 1:1 mushroom farm, so if you need any tips, just let me know

I always thought that was a neat idea. I would do the same, but I think it will take 20 years to scenic the area I have.

 

[Matthyro]

Ralph, the 2003 layout is no more. Needed the space for this 2004 one.
Don, I plan to have a long canyon where one line climbs up the 18inches to the upper level. I am trying to keep the grade to 2% so need a run of 75 feet to do it. No helix for me.
The platform widths vary from 12inches to 18inches.
Alex, I don't have a drawn up track plan but plan to draw it right on the layout so I can make sure everything fits.
Tyson, no guesses as yet as to miles of track.

 

[60103]

Robin, when I saw the title I thought that maybe there was some residual effect from the old mushroom plant.
How many guys (and gals) will you need over to operate?

 

[pomperaugrr]

Robin:
You sure do exhibit a lot of energy and enthusiasm for model railroading! Some of it has even rubbed off on me, in terms of inspiration to get started on my own layout. The mushroom design seems like a great way to maximize your space and keep a linear track plan. The photos you posted do a much better job at conveying the "mushroom" concept than any of the articles I've read on the topic. Thanks for sharing your progress. You are a busy man!

Eric

 

[spitfire]

Way to go!

Wow Robin, you continue to astound me with how much you get done. It seems you no sooner say it, then it's halfway done. Looks like this is going to be one awesome layout!!! :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:

Val

 

[Matthyro]

As of January24th 2004

Thanks Val.
Got quite a bit done so far on the mushroom section. Used up a box of 500 screws this week
Here is a view looking east.

 

[Matthyro]

The view looking west.

 

[SD90]

WOW Robin, and you said I work fast! That's a really cool idea. I can't wait to see all of your scratchbuilt buildings on there! Keep the pictures coming!

Mike.

 

[Matthyro]

Progress as of the 7th. February

The backdrops are all installed and painted. Here is a view of the upper inside of the mushroom looking east.