Fwiffo's Ultra Low Part Count Weldments

[Fwiffo]

Opened this thread to document some weldments I've been working on, in case anyone is interested.  Reserving the first post for my own use; more to come soon.

Edited September 11, 2016 by Fwiffo

[Fwiffo]

Hopper Mk2
A two-Kerbal biome hopper that makes its own fuel

Simplify your logistics!  Go on extended science and exploration missions without the need for pesky refueling detours.  This craft may not look sleek, but that's OK because it's intended for worlds without atmosphere.

On the Mun:

Spoiler

Folded up:

Spoiler

How it's made:

Here's how the craft was originally planned to be balanced around the consumables CoM (note this changed a bit in the Mk 2 design):

Spoiler

Craft files and part files coming soon! for: Hopper-Mk2-Beta1.

 

Edited October 17, 2016 by Fwiffo
Add files

[Fwiffo]

I'm working on a new version which makes several tweaks and adds IndicatorLights.  Here's a preview: Hopper-Mk3-Beta1.

Spoiler

 

Edited December 2, 2016 by Fwiffo

[Fwiffo]

New version: Hopper-Mk4-Beta1

Looks similar to the Mk3, but with a bunch of great tweaks.  A picture and some highlights from the changelog:

Spoiler

• Rebalanced and rewelded for KSP 1.2.x
• Moved surface scanner to wing
• In mass calculations, revert to using Wing Connector C's stock mass of 100kg.  Makes ship heavier considering that part is just supposed to be cosmetic, but is justified since heavy drill is attached to it.  This also follows the design goal of emulating mass and performance characteristics of using all-stock parts.
• Make use of new experimentId feature to fix IndicatorLights for science experiments
• Lots of additional indicator lights refinements
• Fixed crew cabin internals
• Shuffled around components to better suite my taste

 

Edited December 2, 2016 by Fwiffo