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Prototyp : Model : Jaguar XJR-10 / 11
Process, Part Ten.
Introduction - 1 2

I was not completely satisfied with the finished models... Something was missing, they seemed too rigid when displayed. The addition of 'steerable' front wheels added a much-needed dynamic quality to the model, but necessitated some structural changes to the XJR. Some clever engineering keeps the tub simple. Other work was focused on finishing the parts; tabs adjusted for better curves on the bodywork, widths adjusted around the rear end where the parts wouldn't quite come square, carbon and kevlar textures added to the surfaces, better old-style BBS wheel markings... Comparing my recent build of the "PROTOTYP" version to the very early test builds, it is apparent how far these models have come in terms of fit and finish quality. Next time around it won't take as long.



When thinking about reproducing the models, it seemed a clever strategy would benefit production by keeping shared parts for all the xjr variations collected together on 'generic' sheets, separate from specific car's parts printed in smaller quantities. Other considerations were to keep all the gloss and matte finish parts to their own sheets and to group parts as much as possible on the sheets to correspond with building subassemblies.



Process 7 looked at some of the many possible ways to convey a kit's construction. I knew how I wanted to show the building steps for Prototyp, but I didn't know how to best achieve the presentation without a tremendous amount of additional work. In addition to designing the model, I had to create within the process the right scenario to produce the building instructions. Unfortunately the models aren't designed in a proper CAD application, so the gorgeous Tameo style is not a option. After trying to digitize freehand tissue drawings, trying to generate perspective drawings in Illustrator, re-drawing the models in various 3-d applications, and shooting carefully staged photographs, it seemed the fastest way is to simply trace select photographs from the detailed step-by-step photo building guide Construct. Same photos, two applications and a simple process to an effective instruction sheet. The result looks similar to Tamiya's instruction sheets and I think it is a useful tool for showing what parts go where as well as steps for assembling the models.

Output output output... > >