Version .6

This version is getting closer to what I want. Enclosed hangar space for anything Cutlass and smaller. Space for larger ships to dock. Better placement of tractor beams and turrets. Better support for Capital class repair. I haven't labeled the pictures with descriptions and scale yet, but the visuals should at least get the point across. I haven't got everything modeled yet either, still missing some docking collars and such. I feel like this version looks better than version .5 as well (relatively speaking) I only modeled one side of the exterior lighting/shield extenders and grappling arm.

I am still just doing this for ideas and concepts. I don't have the skills to actually make a real submit-able ship.

Feature list:
Rotating and swiveling engine nacelles
Multiple landing pads
Multiple docking bays
Tractor beams at all landing/docking areas
Capital class repair station with multiple levels
Central elevator system for access from cargo/storage to all repair docks and bays
Lighting and Shield generation for exterior landing pads
Articulating Grappling arms with high power laser for cutting/welding/salvage
Able to land planetside

Approximate sizes-

Ship
Length:157m
Beam:95m
Height:40m

Enclosed Hangar:
Length:95m
Beam:40m
Height:10m/7m

Front landing pad
Length:43m
Beam:32m

Capital class service area
Length:104m
Beam:13m
Height:11m (5.5m per level)




Front Landing pad separates and swivels (think Macross/Robotech) to allow the ship to approach a Capital class ship directly and give a wide multi-level access to the hull from inside a protected area with full maintenance resources







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Original post...


So, I am going to embarrass myself, but i was attempting to figure out a good design for a salvage and maintenance ship. I stumbled across a picture of a spider that gave me an idea. Unfortunately, i **** at art so here is the picture of the spider and basic rough of a ship.

Version .1

The basic idea is that the viewing window is right next to the action, but the grappling arms grab from behind holding the "victim" steady, and the manipulating arms are rotatable to better access the hull in any position necessary. The mouth would be a drone/EVA bay to allow immediate access to the area. The "butt" would have cargo doors to allow ship entry or access while main head is working. Would appreciate feedback about the design.

So why this design, is it supposed to compete with the Reclaimer? If you look at the Reclaimer that big arm has one purpose. Crushing things. In maintenance, you need precision and delicacy. You need to be able to completely immobilize your target. This really was designed more as a maintenance ship that could also devour a salvage target. This would be able to grapple to any size vessel and orient itself in what ever position it needed to access the damaged area.

We still have not seen a maintenance ship yet, but i think this design offers some innovative ideas to address some of the difficulties ship maintenance entails.

Be gentle. ^_^;

After reviewing my two designs... I don't know which I like more. Honestly the "Spider" look is more appealing. I love the sphere cargo system, but it just isn't working right with the rest of the idea. Thanks for everyone's feedback.


Other versions below...