Got ya. I guess I wasn't expecting to see the physical device represented along with the display. btw; I really like these; especially the Helm interface; it looks more usable than the TNG LCARS we always see.
Well, they are presented along with the display. See, the device projects a holographic image in the orientation that is shown. That is to say that the device (which unfolded is about 7 inches long) projects the holographic screen out and away from it as illustrated. Then when closed it folds under into a 3.5 inch pocketable device and/or for storage. Hope that makes sense.
Here is an update to the ship. Working on her Dorsal view now. There are few structural changes I made to balance out the ship from this view which will force me back to the other views for minor updates, though it shouldn't be anything difficult. Feedback appreciate as always. DORSAL VIEW WIP FULL VIEW: http://fc04.deviantart.com/fs43/f/2009/154/3/9/JJ_Perception_View_3_WIP_2_by_madeinjapan1988.jpg
Hmmm - it doesn't look quite as good from above. Either saucer is too large or the secondary hull is too short.
I think thats a matter of opinion and beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I appreciate your feedback though. I just feel the design works the way it is and I actually quite like it and the look that goes with it
A tiny update and tiny alteration. I think it addresses the balance issues with the aft half. FULL VIEW: http://fc02.deviantart.com/fs44/f/2009/154/6/7/JJ_Perception_View_3_WIP_2_by_madeinjapan1988.jpg
Josheua, do you get many comparisons to the Discovery class as seen here: http://www.scifi-meshes.com/forums/3d-wips/61396-discovery-class.html
I'm quite sure I do get comparisons Sojourner, I designed her too. I'm known as madeinjapan1988 over on that site though. And actually the Discovery was a testbed for what the Perception turned into. It was nice to see Dmitri give the design his touch. Can't wait to see what he does with Perception. All my designs are over here: http://madeinjapan1988.deviantart.com
Well, cool. Then I can safely say that I like the more rounded primary hull on the Discovery without hurting your feelings, hehe. The Mars mission ship is cool, I always like near future NASA extrapolations!
I have some issues with the exterior shape of the ship, mainly your adherence to the Sovereign's "no-neck" planform that's just always irritated me, but your refinement and attention to detail in the artwork, as well as your inspiring LCARS concept is awesome. I hope to see much much more.
Finally, a chance to use this! Still, I'm glad you brought it back to my attention. I never saved any of those superb illustrations.