I haven't actually modelled the corrugation yet. That'll come in the detailing phase. Those lines are just the program's way of showing me that a curve is happening there. I definitely will be relying on you all's knowledge some, since finding good pics of the Skytop sleeper from every angle is quite difficult.
Nice CAD work. If anyone would know about a Skytop, it would definately be Mr. Denton. I'd like to know half of what he's forgotten about Milwaukee passenger equipment. Jim
Don't want you all to think I've abandoned the project, so here's the progress so far: I've spent about the last week of free time working on the window geometry. For some reason, I am having extreme difficulty getting it to look right. These are still rough images and there is a lot of work yet to be done. The window proportions still look a bit off to me, and of course there are panels sticking out where they shouldn't. Once I get the window panels looking right, then I can add the rivets, interior finish, and mirror them to the other side. At some point, lack of precise data is going to give way to "artistic license" but it should be an outstanding model when complete. I'm going to have to push the timeline to the right however, due to the difficulty encountered with the solarium. The rubber joints on the windows have exaggerated thickness so they can be painted easier, and will actually be visible. At .2mm, it will still be a challenge. This kit won't be for the impatient modeler, that's for sure. I will let you all know when I am ready for critical review, and spare no detail!
Nice progress so far. I started another stick built attempt at a Skytop a few years ago but it kind of fizzled out. I'm following your project with great interest.
for the sake of mesurements, radius, details and angles, you may want to get one of the HO walthers versions. they make both the skytop and superdome models. out at walthers but should be able to find http://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/932-9263 http://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/932-9273
It's been a while since I did an update so here's where I am: What isn't done: - dome windows still need work before I flip them to the other side - leading end of the car not completed - undercarriage details not completed - mounting points for trucks and couplers not completed - interior details not completed - fine body details not completed (rivets) I am making slow progress, since I have other things going on at the same time, including military-related stuff. The big question: Should I attempt to make custom trucks for this or do you all have an acceptable suggestion? Also, any handrails and grabrails are going to be oversized because the machine will kick back the model if they are too small. This has been a real pain on the other model I've been working on, the HWCX hopper. If you want to add your own, it will be very easy to just cut them off. The good thing is, once I have completed this model, it will take minimal effort to make the Skytop Lounge. The only real difficulty there will be making the chairs.
Leave the grab irons off so we can use .010 wire. NO Nystrom trucks are available so well done trucks would be the cats meow !!!Randy
Okay. I will make holes for the wire then. Remember, this model will be in semi-clear plastic so some pretty detailed paintwork will need to be applied by you all. I might provide 2 versions so that those of you that don't want to make your own grabs don't have to. I think it will be a whole extra 5 cents
If you do in fact do the Nystrom trucks I have about 200 car here that need trucks also. I would make the trucks available separately so I can buy 400 of them... I like painting.
The Nystrom trucks were so distinctive, after making such an effort with the car body, not doing trucks to match would seem to detract from the project. Perhaps someone such as Bill Denton would have a suggestion for a decent quality alternative?
Loving the progress! And ditto on no grabs & correct trucks would be great. How clear will the windows be on this? Also, I cleared my inbox brother
Randy, what trucks do you use right now? The plastic is semi-transparent and would need polishing to get close to real tranparent. I can model without the galss for the more adventurous types. Here's an example of the opacity (also shows the "print lines" typical of 3d printing)
I'm using the ones that came with the core car kits, I think they are commonwealth outside swing.... not even close..
How do you all want the mounting surface for the glass? In other words, will you be using individual pieces, strips, liquid filler, etc? I can make a recessed channel if you are doing strips along the sides. For the actual dome portion though, you're on your own. I can make the interior smooth but that's about it. There is some interior detailing that will prevent strips being used in the dome. I can make small flat mounting areas though. Here's what I'm talking about on the interior: The lighting panel is extruded, as well as the 2 main vertical members. The rest you could get away with strips on. Those center windows would have to be individual pieces.
I'll third the motion because I would have to modify the windows to depict how they looked after Canadian National got their hands on the Creek cars. (Yes there was another railroad which ran the Skytops if more orders are needed)
There is a new technology in the works right now which should be a vast improvement upon this present problem. Unfortunately, it won't be on the market for a while.
As far as print lines go, I know Shapeways can polish the model, but I would have to add extra material for that to happen and they charge extra of course. I haven't tried any polishing on my own yes, but the surface deviation is probably no more than .1mm. I was thinking of doing the "toothpaste" trick that you can use on CDs and headlight covers. E50: What technology is that? Also, when it comes time to make Boxcabs, we'll have to get together to see about all of the tiny handrails and wiring on those models as well.
