I'm working on a scratchbuild project right now and have run into a snag. I need to build a hinge, and while getting a hinge that works as just a hinge isn't a problem, its an aesthetics issue. Making it where the hinge shows and works is easy, however making it hidden and work is not. Also, showing the hinge will make the figure look ugly. So, do I go for a more pleasing looking figure, or more accurate details? The hinges in question do not have anything to do with the transformation, just extra details. I'm puposely not saying what I'm working on because I don't want to feel stupid if I never finish it, I already have too many other projects waiting to be finished.
Have you considered a different type of hinge? It would really help to know at least what the part is, its function, and how it relates to the rest of the figure in order to understand the engineering aspects of it.
Yes, I've looked at all types of hinges. But basically, its a panel the opens up, while closed, the panel is raised above the surface, but flat against it. Example: 20th Anniv. Prime's communicator arm panel thingys, it would be like that, but instead of going down flush, it would sit raised above the rest of the arm. Otherwise, I would use that type of hinge.
So why not use that same kind of pivot hinge for it? Instead of having an exposed piano-type hinge (which is what I'm assuming you are talking about), you could create a raised divot point on either side of the panel for it to swing out on. You could even cut out the corners of the panel, so the hinge would fit within the area of the panel. It's hard to explain what I mean, and I can't think of an example. I'm not sure if that would fit on whatever your idea is, but it may look better than what you are thinking.
That would work, but.... its supposed to look flat all over and I can't make the hinges small enough. If I could make the hinges as thick as my panel, then it would work great, unfortunately, they are thin. Which makes me want to choose aesthetics. But you gave me some more ideas, thanks.
I drew a pic of what I meant - Hope that helps give you some ideas. If it's too small to pin, you could replace the pin with a couple of little nubs on either side to pivot on. A lot of work for a hinge, to be sure, but it would look nearly flat like you want.
MMM, that would work if I make the panel I have thicker. I'm going to try a few more things and see how I like it. For the custom itself, I think it is minor, but I'm trying to make it as detailed as possible. Thanks for the help.
Another option, depending on thesize of this piece, is to put the hinge itself under the lower suface, and behind the panel. Then, connect the panel to the hinge with one or two curved swing arms. It would be similar to how a lot of diecast cars' doors are hinged.
This was acutally the first way I tried doing the hinge, just couldn't get it to move in a natural way.
I have aircraft hinges on my Motormaster trailer, they're only about 1 mm thick, 11 mm wide, and 1 and 1/16th inches long, could be cut down as they're vinyl w/ metal pin
Tiny hinges FTW! I picked up some model airplane hinges tonight while making a run to the hobby shop. It looks like they should work out nicely. Now its back to work on the scratchbuild.
I wish I had an actually hobby shop somewhere near me. If they don't sell it at Hobby Lobby, I have a hard time getting it.