Canton Division
Helix
Construction
20 January 2007 - Page One
Construction began today on the Canton Division Helix. The Helix is being built with Kato double tracked viaduct Unitrack. This option was chosen because my wood working skills are somewhat lacking. That being said, this method has presented some challenges as well. The biggest problem I have ran into thus far is the viaduct track coming apart while installing additional pieces. It does not take allot of sideways force to disconnect the track. There is no real locking mechanism. Such a device would be a very welcomed thing. Construction will proceed as planned. If this issue proves to be a ongoing major issue once the helix is completed....a re-design will be required which would involve taking the helix apart and rebuilding based on the new design. Based on some of the issues I have ran into, I have thought of some better ways to this the next time. Instead of the threaded rods going through the viaduct tract, the rods would be placed on the outside and a thin section of plywood would support the viaduct track.
The Pictures below show the start of the helix and how the threaded rods were anchored. Click on the picture for a larger photo.
