The next item on our list of parts to build is “Backpack Vernier 2”, which I suppose could be either of the two Verniers. Whatever, let’s build one and talk about it.
The verniers on this model look like a f-ing work of art. Take a look at this:
They open up from all sorts of directions to reveal three thrusters each, then fold back into a nice, neat, compact form when closed.
The only question is - how exactly do they work? At least, that is the question I have had on my mind since I first laid eyes upon this kit. It seems impossible that this feature works without springs, or diecast metal, or something other than plastic. Now I get to see how it really works.
********* Christian proceeds to assemble the vernier ********
Alright, now I feel stupid. That was not nearly as complicated as I thought.
I tried to take some photos of the entire process. I was easier said than done, but hopefully they paint the proper picture. First, here are all the players involved (minus the one piece I forgot to clip out, and minus the two pieces that are meant for the other vernier):
Just seeing them laid out here, you can start to get an idea of how it all comes together.
First, we start with the big rectangular piece, which boasts our first thruster:
Next we build this little sucker, which has the second thruster (and a wing):
The small piece fits into the bigger one on a hinge, which allows it to tuck right into the rectangular space:
It can also slide up and down, which will come in handy later.
The third step is to build another small fixture that holds the third thruster. This attaches to the other side:
Notice how the two thrusters are at different heights. This is allows them to both tuck into the center.
Since the right fixture is on a slider, it can slide down when the vernier is open, so that both side thrusters can be aligned with one another.
Here is what it looks like to open the vernier up after final assembly:
And here it is while closed:
Here we can see the final trick of the verniers - there are a few extra white pieces thrown onto the top in order ot make it taller.
All in all, the assembly of the vernier was not as hard as I thought it would be. The only tricky part (which I did mess up) was that the two white pieces on the bottom have to be on the correct side, otherwise it will not completely close. Thankfully I was able to reassemble without breaking anything.
Furthermore, I am surprised at how sturdy it is. Well, maybe “sturdy” is not the right word. How about “care is needed, but it does not feel like it will break simply by looking at it”? The reason is because the construction is so simple. There is not that many moving parts that can go haywire, despite what it may look like.
Other Thoughts
- You may or may not have noticed, but all the dark plastic of the vernier was doused in both silver and gunmetal weathering compound. It gave them all a really nice metallic sheen, and I think it looks far better than bare plastic. I may do something like this for all inner frame pieces from now on (though not on this kit, since I already built the leg, and I do not want to take it apart).
- I did not add decals when I took this photo, but I plan on adding them eventually. I will show those off when I build the second vernier.