Modular Game Board: Solution 2

Solution 2: To continue to use the 2'x2' boards that I already purchased and still be able to use both sides of the boards. I have decided to attempt to make a frame. Scratch that, a modular frame, remember I am trying to fit this in the trunk of my car, along is miniatures and terrain. Yes I could add a little of a frame under each of the panels and dowel them together, which might still be an option. But adds more depth to the boards and doesn't stay too compact. With a modular frame, I can go and buy more panels and just place in it. Only problem I foresee so far is putting it together might be slightly complicated, about as complicated as putting up a tent.

Putting it together:

I attached a couple files to this page that contains a SketchUp drawing of what I am planning. The first file is my original idea, but after talking to some people it might not be very stable for what I am doing.  Though adding some more bracing it might work out ok. After a redesign, the second file we believe will be a bit more stable, but will add a little more weight. For the most part the 4 corners are going to be drilled through and using wing nuts to keep the structure together. Links between wood will be screwd together with a nut and bolt type setup, using a screw in nut that screws into the wood. The braces are connected to the outer frame with dowels.

Result 2:

My results were poor mainly because I tried to use a regular nut to hold the frame together. The dowel connections worked nicely. Most of the problems I am having deal with what I used to put it together. Also it takes some work to get it together. I have one other solution I want to try yet and I am going to use what I can of this frame to do it. Basicly the next solution is framing the panels and having doweled corners to connect the panels.