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Model RR - Building Benchwork
The challenge was to build strong bench work that would support a ton of plaster, have hatches to allow access to all areas of the layout, and have a minimum of legs carefully placed to not obstruct the storage and removal of large boxes under the structure.   I also wanted fascia on the front edge for a more finished look, electrical wiring that did not go through holes in the trusses for easier installation and removal, and a solid plywood top on which to build successive layers.   My goal was to place some electrical terminals and switch machines on the top and never underneath.   Access to the underside would be limited when completed.
To play slide show, click on the 1st picture.
In this dog-bone area, I utilized both cantilever and long truss supports. This leaves the underneath area open and free of obstructions to maximize storage.
This view shows the long truss beam running almost across the room. In the corner is the beginning of an access hatch.
Looking the opposite direction, you can easily see the other end of the dog-bone and the other access hatch.
Only 2 legs and the wall are used for support. The electronics drawer is attached.
Clear view of the sizable access hatch. All of the track will curve around the outside.
Panorama of dog-bone area across the room. As neat as it appears, it is not really curved in the middle. The wide angle lens caused plenty of distortion in the stitched scene.
The center peninsula is supported by a solid cabinet that will contain drawers for ready-to-run rolling stock and locomotives.
The computer desk is in place at the end of the peninsula. For positioning, see track plans and schematic of desk in Electrical Access section.
During construction, wiring was run under the floor and comes up at the corner of the desk. I used blue painter tape on the floor to map out the exact placement of all support legs.
Plastic hooks to hang wires instead of holes makes it easier to replace or to run new wire.
This heavy support framework goes all the way to the floor to support many pounds of plaster castings. When finished, this end of the dog-bone will be Copper Canyon and Cataract Falls.