[WIP][1.3.1] SSTULabs - Low Part Count Solutions (Orbiters, Landers, Lifters) - Dev Thread [10-09-17]

In general development news:

Petal adapter code appears to be all working as it should be with the new 'retract' feature in place and adjustable deploy limits. Should be included in the next release.

All RCS ports have been modified to use the new ModularRCS part-module, to allow for scaling, structure and fuel switching. A few new 'structure' variants have been added as well (2x and 3x truss segments).

Service module code is progressing well. Most features work already, but still a few that need a bit more development (rcs module updating). And tons of config-based work to do for it -- so many configs to write -- model definitions, part configs, texture sets. I think I might be able to pull off this part series without creating a single model specifically for it. I have enough adapter and fuel tank models of various sizes and shapes that so far I've been able to make up a decent selection of SM body variants strictly through config file. If that is the case (not needing any new models), these parts might well be available much sooner.

(The Probe-core/satellite core series of parts -will- need new models, as I would like something other than 'round' for my satellite buses, so these will likely be done at some point in the future).

Just about time to start discussing the next bits to be developed -- pretty sure it will be a couple sets of landing legs for the MFT-LV tanks. Going to try to resurrect the geometry from the old LC-LEG-HVY parts, with some adjustments for the new tank geometry (mounting points mostly). Fairly certain these will be developed as a scalable 'leg quad' that can be mounted on the bottom node of the fuel tank (can add a specific lower-interstage node if needed).

The second leg concept that I'm going to explore is actual a combination low-profile service/cargo bay + landing leg combination. The legs, when stowed, will be stored inside some of the compartments in the service bay (the other compartments will be empty, for arbitrary storage use).

And as I'll be working on service bay type setups for the landing legs, I'll likely at least work out the geometry for the entire lineup of MFT-LV cargo/service bays at the same time.

So there you have it -- the next 'official' parts will be landing legs and service bays. Certainly not going to promise any dates or give any time-frames; can only state that those will be the next focus for new part development.[WIP][1.3.1] SSTULabs - Low Part Count Solutions (Orbiters, Landers, Lifters) - Dev Thread [10-09-17]

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