Yeah, this is a frighteningly complex build. Remember, the original was built directly on the armature and that was hard enough. This one is "modular" meaning it is a separate unit that can be mounted on or taken off the armature as needed. This makes it easier to detail but complicates both the head structure and the armature design. As a result, the CR head section will never be offered as any sort of "kit." We agreed it is just too complex. With so many parts and so much complexity, there are just too many potential pitfalls. Imagine providing all these parts and then having to deal with sending out replacements when things get screwed up during construction. This is why the head can only be offered fully built.
The rest of the ship is easier in comparison. But, with that said, the engine section gives this one a run for its money. What looks like a simple box becomes almost equally complex by the time you design it as a modular structure (i.e. can be removed from the armature) and then add all those angled panels on the front, a built-in ventilation system, high-tech lighting, removable lid, and modular/removable rear thruster modules.
As for materials, I feel styrene is definitely easier to work with. But, it has its disadvantages, too. For one thing, it's far more fragile. The plex skins on the first build were hard as a rock and not easily damaged. A slip of the knife, etc. was no big deal. These styrene skins are easily dinged and scratched up. A wayward drop of solvent has the effect of "acid blood" from one of Jim Cameron's aliens, LOL. I'm a perfectionist, so I cringe when stuff like that happens.
On the upside, it's very easy to repair any trouble spots. The stuff sands easily and cleans up very nice. It glues very securely to plex using solvents and to resin using CA. I have the option of using solvent for regular bonding of styrene-to-styrene joints (strong and flexible) or CA when I need an instant bond (quick grab but creates brittle joints). So, yeah, I do like working with it.
PS The KoolShade vent is not just for looks -- it is a fully functional air intake. One challenge is light blocking. The material allows air to flow but does not totally block out any light source behind it. As a result, I had to design and build a box structure behind it to help prevent any light leaks.
The rest of the ship is easier in comparison. But, with that said, the engine section gives this one a run for its money. What looks like a simple box becomes almost equally complex by the time you design it as a modular structure (i.e. can be removed from the armature) and then add all those angled panels on the front, a built-in ventilation system, high-tech lighting, removable lid, and modular/removable rear thruster modules.
As for materials, I feel styrene is definitely easier to work with. But, it has its disadvantages, too. For one thing, it's far more fragile. The plex skins on the first build were hard as a rock and not easily damaged. A slip of the knife, etc. was no big deal. These styrene skins are easily dinged and scratched up. A wayward drop of solvent has the effect of "acid blood" from one of Jim Cameron's aliens, LOL. I'm a perfectionist, so I cringe when stuff like that happens.
On the upside, it's very easy to repair any trouble spots. The stuff sands easily and cleans up very nice. It glues very securely to plex using solvents and to resin using CA. I have the option of using solvent for regular bonding of styrene-to-styrene joints (strong and flexible) or CA when I need an instant bond (quick grab but creates brittle joints). So, yeah, I do like working with it.
PS The KoolShade vent is not just for looks -- it is a fully functional air intake. One challenge is light blocking. The material allows air to flow but does not totally block out any light source behind it. As a result, I had to design and build a box structure behind it to help prevent any light leaks.
Charles Adams | www.StarshipBuilder.com | Follow me on Facebook
Author, MODEL DESIGN & BLUEPRINTING HANDBOOK, Volume 1 SECOND EDITION NOW AVAILABLE
Author, MODEL DESIGN & BLUEPRINTING HANDBOOK, Volume 1 SECOND EDITION NOW AVAILABLE