Beginning a new scratchbuild - need advice

[Szyntax]

I've always wanted to do a big (5+ feet) scratchbuild of a spaceship. I look at the SW Avengers and stat sdestroyers with envy. So I've started a new project; a 5 or 6' space carrier.

I can't release the details as I've found a design I like BUT it is an artists work (not mine) and I'm negotiating for permission to build it. The negotiations are going well and I hope to have permision soon.

I'm doing preliminary design and am looking for tips/tricks on how to design the internal structure (framework) of the ship. Wood seems common, metla less common, PVC piping seems a middle ground (I'm worried about the flex of a plastic pipe)

I know any comments will be general at this time but any general thought processes people use when designing the internal sructure of these big builds?

Much appreciated,
Doug

 

[JFB64]

You may want to start with a center spine that is lite yet rigid, like extruded aluminum channel (Google 8020) and then attach the frame work to that. The framework could be made from MDF or plywood or something similar. I would avoid using solid wood because that will expand and contract with seasonal changes in humidity and may cause your model to develop cracks later in life. Hope this helps. Good luck.

 

[Szyntax]

Yes, thanks. At 6' long isn't Aluminum Channel too bendy? Same with PVC tube or the like. I didn't think about expansion/contraction due to temp/humidity on this thing.

On my project the weight will be at the ends, not the center. This adds problems. it will definately have to be supported (by the base) at both ends rather than a single point or central mount. Food for thought

Thanks,
Doug

 

[JFB64]

I've never worked with 8020 before, but I have worked with PVC and I'll bet at six feet the PVC will have a natural bend to it where the aluminum will be straight. Check it out, it's pretty neat stuff

 

[Szyntax]

Thanks again. i looked it up and it just may work. as soon as the artist gives me the "Ok" I'll post more specific info and build notes.

 

[Nwerke]

Doug,

Do the initials LA have anything to do with this? ;p I fancy that one very much indeed. Or is it something completely original?

If it is the former then you do not really need permission for a one-off, any more than he needed permission to re-imagine it. Unless maybe you're planning to kit it, which would be very very awesome. ;p

Cheers,
Martyn

 

[Nwerke]

P.S. I second the aluminium option. Square or round tubing or many channel sections will be more than rigid enough for what you need. Square tubing would be my preference. Easy to join with brackets and nuts and bolts. You can add rigidity with a few ally plate gussets if needed. Lightweight.

I like to build lightweight so personally I would go with styrene or acrylic sheet bulkheads, not wood or MDF. Makes for a more fragile model but hey, it's only for display, not filming.