Okay so here goes with some pics of the initial work that my brother and I have completed. At the moment we are only constructing the basic boards.
The boards are approximately 302mm x 302mm. We wanted the tiles to be modular so that we can have multiple configurations. The depth of the boards is 75mm. The base and top is made from 6mm MDF with the sides being made from 18mm MDF.
As you can see it is of a sturdy construction. The sides and bottom have been screwed and glued into place. The top board will not be screwed but magnetised into place. The plan is recess several magnets into the top of the 18mm MDF. The top board will have metal washers/plates which will secure to the magnets. (These have to be ordered) I will make sure to take some pictures of these when fitted.
The main purpose for the creation of these game tiles using this process is that we are creating a sewer and canal system. The picture below shows an example tile for the sewers. When using the sewer tile you will only be able to see the central area.
When we don't want to use the sewer system, the board will look a little like this.
Here is an example of a canal tile.
We have cut 3mm grooves into the side so that perspex can be placed into the channel to represent the water. The nice thing here is that there is sufficient depth to create all sorts of wonderful debris within the canal including lighting.
We plan to construct a 4' x 4' playing area. Once the basic tiles have been created we will then go to town on them modelling the sewers using embossed plastic card and the such like. I already have my sights set on some of the architectural supplies fro Fenris Games, particularly their manhole covers. Again, the use of magnets means we will be able to create scenarios in multiple locations from game to game.