The NEW Build Your Own Arcade Controls
Main => Project Announcements => Topic started by: SpaceHedgehog on October 28, 2012, 12:05:43 pm
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Now that I have a dedicated room for games, I need to get it all organised. My Vewlix cab is pretty much done, my gaming desk also nearly done, racing simulator looking ok but needing to be re-styled and my XBOX looking a right mess on a half finished cabinet. Got ---my bottom--- together today and started to rebuild the cabinet. I attempted one before but it didn't come out anything like I hoped so I stopped building it halfway through. This is my second attempt to build one.
Work done so far today:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade1.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade2.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade4.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade3.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade5.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade6.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade7.jpg)
This is a picture of a previous attempt. I'll be sticking with the poles for the TV mount for this new cab. You get the idea ...
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/InteraktivFront.jpg)
Planning to put a couple of fans on the back for heat exhaust.
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Last activity for today, Will be picking up again next weekend.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade9.jpg)
Top will be covered, the sides bevelled, legs added and extra side pieces made.
Doors will be added using some black mesh wrapped around a frame.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade10.jpg)
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Quite interested in what this will look like completed.... :cheers:
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Thanks, so am I!! Fancied doing something original.
Edit: The best way I can describe it is a mutant hybrid of a Golden Tee, Showcase and a Vewlix
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/Hybrid1.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/images.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/VewlixDIY.jpg)
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Artists impression (I use the word artist loosely):
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/IMG_1004.jpg)
Legs will actually be longer and the TV relatively larger.
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Hopefully it will start to resemble the design soon ....
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade11-1.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade12-1.jpg)
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Good old blackboard vinyl - the stuff is great. Covered the inside compartment where the console will sit.
Bottom shelf.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade14.jpg)
Interior.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade15.jpg)
Need to decide whether to use T-molding or simply paint the opening. The front has to be filled and sanded now before more vinyl is applied ....
The aperture will be covered by a mesh door anyway though.
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Front and sides skinned.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade16.jpg)
Sides bevelled and filledto give a bit more of an interesting shape.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade17-1.jpg)
TV in place (will get a new one at some point with a thinner bezel).
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade18-1.jpg)
Now need to work on finishing the top and then the cabinet legs and shaped side pieces
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Holy tits that thing is crazy
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that is amazing. are you going to hide the wires inside one of the support tubes? great design, any thoughts on game choice for this bad boy :afro:
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Thanks guys. I wanted to do something novel and promised to make my son a cabinet.
Re the wires, there will actually be a 3rd tube for the purpose. It will effectively make a triangle at the base. I was going to drill a hole in the bottom of the table leg and feed the cables through but decided against it. I'm happy the 3 tube approach will look pretty good with the color scheme I'm going for (shaped white panels with artwork on the side if the base unit, white 3rd tube - it will match my Vewlix cab).
On the games front, it will be a multitude - I fancy making a control panel for Pacman CE + DX. This will 'dock' with the base unit and look similar to a Showcase cab. If I don't build a dedicated Electronic Pinball cab, I'm also planning on a pinball control panel. A 2 player panel for fighting games is also on my wishlist.
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Nice build man!
Only One little note from me, wanna flip those pics 180' for us? 😄
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I'll look into that dextercf. They're displaying the right way up for me though ???
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Nice build man!
Only One little note from me, wanna flip those pics 180' for us? 😄
I'll look into that dextercf. They're displaying the right way up for me though ???
Dextercf, is that an Australian joke? :duckhunt (Don't remember where you are at.)
Scott
Edit: Norway -- So much for it being an Aussie joke. :dizzy:
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I've modified the pics now dextercf. Let me know if the orientation is now correct.
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Intriguing build. I'm curious to see how this one comes out, esp. the control panel part.
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Are there any concerns about it being top-heavy? Or is the TV light enough that the weight of the MDF is sufficient to keep it planted? The first thing I thought of was extending the legs through the middle shelf, and to the floor. Just to lower the center of gravity. I've been pondering a similar build, might mix a bit of this into it :)
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Understandable concerns. The TV has been sat on a partially built previous version for well over a year so I don't think I'll have any issues. That one was taller by about 20cm (the TV was actually too high). This version has a top piece to further stabilise the metal table legs (which are bolted down rather than screwed). The addition of legs at the bottom with self leveling feet will further add to the stability as will the extra weight of the shaped side pieces (30mm thick MDF made from 18 and 12 mm sheets). The base is already quite heavy.
Edit: lowering the legs any further would prevent access to the middle shelf where I intend to put the speakers.
Will be interested to see any design ideas you have :)
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I've modified the pics now dextercf. Let me know if the orientation is now correct.
Now they look the right way..
Nice One on the australian joke thing, wrong side og out planet though.. Hehe!
Sent from my iPhonophonoponononon.
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Adjustable feet and 5 m2 of blackboard vinyl have arrived. That should do me for this and a couple more projects.
For anyone with a foot fetish:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade19.jpg)
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Few things progressed.
Legs cut (will require additional finishing and hardening with adjustable feet fitted)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade21.jpg)
Second of the three top pieces fitted and glued. Will wait for that to dry and screw it in. The usual body filler and sanding will then be done.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade22.jpg)
Side view:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade20.jpg)
Next will be to complete the third top piece. After that, I'll start on the shaped side panels.
It looks like it's shaping up to plan at the moment.
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Completed the third top piece and have started to shape a retaining panel which will be placed on top of the the centre top piece as you can see in the picture.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade23.jpg)
Rough cut a side piece to check out the angles. This still needs to be trimmed back and then cloned and bevelled.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade24.jpg)
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Basic shape for the top retaining piece has been cut. This requires some additional router work before it is complete.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade25.jpg)
The third hole is where a pipe will sit to hide the cables. This will be white.
Side panels have been cloned but still require a bit of trimming with a flush bit.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade26.jpg)
The side panels will be white.
I would appreciate some input from folks on what to do artwork-wise on the side panels. I want to have it in keeping with the general style on my Vewlix cab. Basically, I feel that this should have white accents rather than a large surface which is plain white. Open to offers!
This is what I put together for the Vewlix cab.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/VewlixPrintSheet.jpg)
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not sure what to do for art. just wanted to say this build has got me very intrigued on the end result :applaud:
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Thanks CoryDee. Hopefully the idea in my head translates well to reality :)
Sides trimmed and bevelled.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade27.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade28.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade29.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade30.jpg)
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Shaped the retaining piece and cut the access tube. I actually think this 3rd leg will give it a better view in profile. With the location I have planned for it, it will be directly visible from the side through an open door so the look of the profile is important.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade31.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade32.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade33.jpg)
This is the TV I'm thinking of getting when funds allow (provided the input lag isn't a problem):
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade26-1.png)
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Now on to the bits which take the time - preparation of the wood surfaces which need to be pained/sprayed. Pass 1 of filling/smoothing the MDF edges with car body filler. I'll now check for imperfections, mark them out, fill and sand back again.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade34.jpg)
Initial doodle for the control panel section.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade35.jpg)
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This is an interesting build. Looking forward to seeing your progress. :cheers:
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Thanks Woodshop Flunky :cheers: Trying to do something a little different and also modern in terms of the styling.
A few pics of the skinning process for the 'roof' of my 'house cab' as my daughter has started to call it. This bit was pretty tricky but it still beats painting....
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade36.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade37.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade38.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade39.jpg)
Edit:
Sides have been filled and sanded back ready for priming tomorrow.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade40.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade41.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade42.jpg)
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Not sure what's happened to the quality of the pictures I'm taking at the moment - seem to have deteriorated badly. Oh well.
A couple of pics with the TV in place. A bit of work has to be done with getting this all fitted out correctly but you get the idea.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade45.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade44.jpg)
A thinner bezel on the TV will improve the aesthetics, I think.
Edit: I think I may put some PC components in here as well.
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Supporting legs have been prepped and the adjustable feet fitted. I need to paint these before I attach them to the base of the unit.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade46.jpg)
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Good old blackboard vinyl - the stuff is great. Covered the inside compartment where the console will sit.
I'm hating on paint at the moment and really like the clean look of this vinyl. Can you tell us a bit about the product + a link or two?
EDIT-
I googled and it seems that the "good stuff" is this HEXIS product. Is this what you are using?
http://www.hexis-graphics.com/en/products/view/123 (http://www.hexis-graphics.com/en/products/view/123)
Are you applying it on unprimed MDF?
I like what you are doing so far, nice look!
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Yeh, painting really does take a lot of time and results can be inconsistent - just started on the side panels, legs and retaining piece for the cab. It will take a while ...
I get the blackboard vinyl from a sign makers / printers store:
http://www.mdpsupplies.co.uk/productcat.asp?parentcatname=Blackboard%20Vinyl&parentcat=50 (http://www.mdpsupplies.co.uk/productcat.asp?parentcatname=Blackboard%20Vinyl&parentcat=50)
It's thicker than standard vinyl and has a very nice texture to it, almost like a grainy powder coating. Here's a close up from a control panel:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/IMG_0771.jpg)
I get it off the roll and my source supplies it in 1m widths. I bought 5 continuous meters last time.
For best results, it needs to go onto a completely flat surface. For MDF, if I'm wrapping it round edges, I only prep the rough sides (generally use car body filler, sanded smooth with 180 grit sandpaper). If it's jut a surface, I will apply it directly to the surface and trim the excess.
Like any vinyl, it hates any grit or specs of dirt so the surface must be dusted thoroughly first.
Getting used to applying it can take a little practice, particularly when wrapping around edges - it needs to be pulled taut; I use my thumb to push it around the edges. This makes sure you don't get any air bubbles or 'looseness' when it's applied.
Getting a nice edge is simply a matter of turning the piece over, placing it onto a hard surface (I use scrap MDF) and using a craft knife to cut it.
Hope that helps.
Edit: that looks like the right product to me - can't find a data sheet for the vinyl I get to compare it to though.
Edit 2: I love the stuff, modded my gaming desk using this vinyl too:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/CustomComputerDIYGamingDesk8.jpg)
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Sides, retaining piece and legs primed. Legs and retaining piece will be painted black.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade48.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade47.jpg)
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This is looking awesome!
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Thanks CoryDee :)
Making very slow progress due to a nasty cold and cough I picked up but have managed to complete the black base coat (blackboard paint) for the retaining piece and the cabinet legs. I'll be using some matt polyurethane varnish once this has dried thoroughly. I've used this combination before and it generally comes out pretty well and nice and even.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade50.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade51.jpg)
I also ordered a slot cutter and some T-molding to fit to the lower opening in the base module. I figured that it would look much better with T-molding in place.
Just in the process of designing the door panels for the front of the cab and also the artwork for the sides. I'll also be adding a shroud at the back of the display and also a marquee.
I decided to call this the Raptor - I think it'll look quite mean sat on its haunches.
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Looking good! You seem very handy with wood, what with all those precise bevels. What do you use for this? Any tips?
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Thanks Shrunkenmaster :)
I invested in a Trend T10 router a few years ago and that was the best purchase I ever made. I would like to buy a smaller one for more intricate work though. Most of the bevels are made with a very large chamfer bit - it's for a 1/2 inch collet - you can't get them in1/4 inch don't believe. The general shapes are rough cut with a jigsaw and then tidied up with a flush trim bit before using the chamfer bit.
Other than that, just the basics really; a circular saw, jigsaw, Makita combi drill and a basic Black and Decker work bench. I just take my time when I'm building and make sure I finish the cut ends of the MDF off, generally using car body filler for the purpose. It's the preparation and the finishing which takes most of the time.
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Legs and retaining piece have been varnished. Not completely happy with the latter so I may redo it at some point in the future.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade54.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade52.jpg)
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Completed cutting the slots for the T-molding and have fitted it. I was a couple of mm short where the T-molding joins at the top but never mind, you can't really see it. Both apertures will be covered by doors with a mesh grill anyway.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade57.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade56.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade55.jpg)
Mesh for the doors:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade10.jpg)
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Awesome project! Where did you get the black wire mesh from? I am looking to order a few pieces cut to size for my projects.
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Thanks Firepro4Life ;D
I got the mesh from ebay - it's automotive diamond mesh grill (I bought the 3mmx5mm aperture size). I was looking at pc modders mesh but I actually need a decent airflow in the bottom compartment as this is where a console will sit.
More pics. It's definitely starting to look more the part now I have the legs on the Raptor. The sides are just primed at the moment and will need to be sprayed and some art applied.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade58.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade59.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade60.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade61.jpg)
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I'd been wanting to try adding some lighting to the cab so I just had a quick go at assembling something. Held together by blu-tac ;D
Not sure why the light comes out as blue when in fact it's pure white ???
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade62.jpg)
That'll be my last progress picture until next week.
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Now comes the fiddly part, making the doors for the cabinet apertures.....
I didn't want to use pin hinges so I had to figure out another method. I had an idea to use some Ikea shelf support pins and use these as a 'swivel hinge' ... that's my term, there's probably a real one.
I'm testing this out at the moment with a mock-up so here's the design.
The door/flap will be made of 12mm MDF. The side pieces 18mm. This will allow the flap to rotate relative to the side piece whilst providing clearance. Hopefully the pictures will make more sense ....
Ikea pins:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade68.jpg)
Hole drilled into the side of the flap:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade64.jpg)
Pin inserted into the hole:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade65.jpg)
Hinge in place (depth of hole in the side piece is slightly shallower to allow the flap to clear the side piece when opening/ closing):
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade66.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade67.jpg)
This will need to be done accurately to ensure a decent fit.
The door/flap will have magnetic strip at the top to attract to another strip on the cabinet to ensure that it remains shut. The door/flap will have a cutout with embedded wire mesh. I'll post more pics as I go ....
This build doesn't seem to be proving that interesting to people :dunno Hopefully when I start to build the the control panels it will :)
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The lower door/flap and the side pieces have been cut. A window will need to be cut into the door/flap to insert some mesh.
The side pieces are stuck to a piece of scrap with double sided tape to check it works and that everything is flush. It looks ok.
Making sure it opens!
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade70.jpg)
Side pieces beveled:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade72.jpg)
Fit looks ok:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade69.jpg)
This side pieces will be screwed onto the left and right sides of the lower aperture.
Edit:
Temporarily attached to the front:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade74.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade76.jpg)
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Probably the last pics and progress for today. Will concentrate on the mesh insert tomorrow.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade77.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade78.jpg)
Very fiddly to do with my meager skills.
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This build doesn't seem to be proving that interesting to people :dunno Hopefully when I start to build the the control panels it will :)
Not true at all, i have been watching this thread from the start and its coming along nicely.
I don't usually say much but believe me when i say people are watching!! :drool
keep up the great work... :notworthy:
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Thanks Acids, good to know ;) I tend to post for motivational purposes - it keeps me focused on getting a build progressed and also serves as an opportunity for people to throw in new ideas.
Will be getting more done on this today - embed some mesh into the lower door an construct the top 'flap' (more of a grill really with the same styling as it will have speakers behind it so won't actually move at all)
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This build doesn't seem to be proving that interesting to people :dunno Hopefully when I start to build the the control panels it will :)
Not true at all, i have been watching this thread from the start and its coming along nicely.
I don't usually say much but believe me when i say people are watching!! :drool
keep up the great work... :notworthy:
+1 :cheers:
Every new post on your thread I look at, loving the work. Still have no idea what this thing is though.....so on with the control panel thingy
Don't tell me what this will look like, I want it to be a surprise!
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Hey, thanks CoryDee :) I'll try not to ruin the surprise.....
Managed to get the wire mesh and the inset for the door sorted.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade79.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade80.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade81.jpg)
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usually I like to see a concept sketch beforehand but this, this is something I have never seen before and am already in awe half way...erm....a quarter the way through???
Love the mesh, got a link?
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Wow! It's really starting to look better and better with each update.
Although I'm not a big fan of black/white it's looking awesome. Compliments on the woodworking!
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@CoryDee. This is automotive mesh grill from ebay. I went for the one with the smallest mesh size. Example:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/ALUMINIUM-BLACK-MESH-GRILL-9x5-S3-S4-S6-RS4-RS6-M3-M5-/120672472580?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item1c18a3ce04 (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/ALUMINIUM-BLACK-MESH-GRILL-9x5-S3-S4-S6-RS4-RS6-M3-M5-/120672472580?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item1c18a3ce04)
@Floriske.nl - Thanks :) Going for black and white to match everything else I have built / am planning to build - I'm a bit sad when it comes to colour and style co-ordination. The sides will mainly be covered in art so it will just have white accents.
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I heard you mention this earlier...side art? That will be awesome, and sad. I like the simplicity in color
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Fear ye not! The artwork is going to be along the lines of the Vewlix cab - Black and grey with white text. Example I put together for the Vewlix cab:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/VewlixPrintSheet.jpg)
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I forgot about that build, and didn't even associate it with you. I am liking this even more every post.
(http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m2n0av6Sbd1r085xlo1_500.gif)
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:)
Completed the cover for the top section (double sided tape holding it in place atm):
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade84.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade85.jpg)
That's it for the weekend. Thought these would take some time as they're the fiddliest parts (for now ;) )
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This started out kinda boring, but now.. I'm pretty excited what it has become!
Nice work dude!
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Thanks dextercf. It started off as a box and now it's a box with legs, tubes and doors ;D I have some grand plans for the control section, the marquee and also the shroud at the back of the display (when I buy a new one - which should be within the next few weeks). It will look like a proper cabinet when it's done.
The plan is to build several interchangeable control panels (1 player, 2 player, gun game panel etc) to sit on a stand in front of this module (basically like a sit down Cabaret cab). I will be making a rack to store these on. Although the idea is to allow the CP unit to be moved out of the way when necessary (it is primarily for my son for XBOX use), I will also build a connecting piece to link the two units together so it looks properly integrated. I was going to build a separate modern pinball machine (non-traditional design running Pinball FX2) but now I'm not so sure - I think I'll just build a separate control panel for this as space is becoming a premium and I don't want to lose the space for my Racing simulator in the process.
Edit: Sorry CoryDee, just realised I ruined the surprise .....
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I was just thinking that........
(http://i647.photobucket.com/albums/uu196/andalorion/SadPanda.gif)
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Sorry about that :( I may as well set out the phases I have in mind for this build:
Phase 1: Lower Cabinet
Phase 2: Display, shroud and marquee
Phase 3: Control panel base
Phase 4: Primary Control panel
Phase 5: Link section
Phase 6: Spray finishing and artwork
Phase 7: Additional CPs and storage rack
I may swap 2 and 3 around depending on when the display arrives.
So I'm about 15-20% through, I would estimate..... :o
Edit: Maybe not even that, thinking about it.
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Managed to find some time to fill, prime and apply the base coat to the doors. They took a lot of preparing. They still need to be varnished which will be done tomorrow.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade86_zps4a4d454b.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade87_zps321fd6e9.jpg)
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Holy back alley black cat Batman! That looks nice!
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Managed to find some time to fill, prime and apply the base coat to the doors. They took a lot of preparing. They still need to be varnished which will be done tomorrow.
So you are putting varnish over the black paint? I really like you finished and I'd like to know more about this so pics please :D
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Thanks CoryBee.
I will take some additional photos of the process next time sharpfork. I missed the boat on this one :( - just did some basic varnishing with a small roller and water based polyurethane.
Complete the finish and fitted them to the front of the cab. The mesh is held in with hot glue. I need to tidy up the inside of the lower door a little. The photos are a bit rubbish unfortunately.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade89_zpsf9a2ffa4.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade90_zpsa9c36309.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade88_zps82df0083.jpg)
The next job will be to fit the magnetic strip I ordered to the top of the door and the cab.
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A couple of better pics now there's some daylight around.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade92_zps5c068e44.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade93_zpsca7eb947.jpg)
It's taken me 4 days to do these doors ???
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A few bits have arrived. Hopefully I will find some time to sort out the mount for the display. I wanted a thin VESA mount rather than using the current MDF built one to allow the display to be 'set back' as far as possible.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade94_zpsaaf214a6.jpg)
Magnetic strip will be used on the lower door to keep it shut.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade95_zpsa004e8b0.jpg)
This is the display I've decided on (32 inch). It's thin and only has 16ms of input lag which is pretty good.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade96_zpsfbab2b81.jpg)
I will also be thinking about building the marquee this weekend.
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Subscribed..
AJ
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Subscribed..
AJ
I hope it doesn't disappoint!
Started on the marquee today rather than the TV mount - I'll wait to buy the display beforehand to ensure I have it at exactly the correct height.
I wanted something similar to the Golden Tee machine but a bit sleeker (less height) and chunkier at the back - I'm going to be paying particular attention to the profile of the machine due to the place it will be located (visible sideways through an open door). I've cut out the basic pieces. The front piece will be given a similar treatment to the doors.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade97_zps9b3e65bc.jpg)
The width is 40cm and the height 10cm.
The Golden Tee has something a little too big I think.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade98_zpsdecff9ff.jpg)
I think the marquee will give a better balance to the cabinet and make it feel much more like a real machine.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade99_zpsfad99447.jpg)
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Well I had a little mishap with the front frame of the marquee - the MDF split (just a thin 'slice' at the top - didn't go through) and messed up the cuts. Nothing a bit of car body filler cant rectify though. You can see it on the right of the picture.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade103_zps88f91ab1.jpg)
The marquee comes in 2 parts - the front frame and the back. The front will be finished in white and the back in black.
The back of the frame - recessed to allow for some acrylic and artwork:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade100_zps97594702.jpg)
Basic shape:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade101_zpsb4e88ca6.jpg)
Profile:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade102_zpsda0793a5.jpg)
Now back to filling the mistake and prepping it for painting .....
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The display is ordered and should arrive next Monday .....
More progress on the marquee.
Rectified the mistake with some car body filler and applied some to the rough, routed edges:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade104_zps19e06c0a.jpg)
2 coats of primer on the front and back pieces:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade105_zps326c2bfc.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade106_zpsc95bf575.jpg)
Cut the acrylic:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade107_zpse0c98245.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade108_zps3c52388b.jpg)
And designed the artwork (may tweak this a little):
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/RaptorMarqueeSmall_zpsd14a82e0.jpg)
I will be spraying the front piece white and the back black.
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New display has arrived :)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade110_zps443e4fa5.jpg)
Light and very slim with a nice thin bezel:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade111_zpscd725ac5.jpg)
... compared to the current one (will be moving this to a new location with more space):
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade109_zps44fa7764.jpg)
Connections on the back:
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade112_zps20357201.jpg)
Just have to wait until everyone's awake before I get the router out and start to make a mount for the thing.
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Basic mount has been made but still needs to be adjusted. Cables need to be fed through the white tube ....
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade114_zps2334c606.jpg)
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:applaud:
And a happy halloween to you and your kin
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Thanks CoryBee.
May not look like much but I now have the display oriented correctly (it was leaning to the left slightly and was not completely vertical - I made another retaining piece to sort this out). All the cabling is now fed through the maintenance tube.
I need to stark working on the shroud at the back of the display soon ... I'm running behind my self imposed schedule atm.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade115_zps2aba3bbf.jpg)
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:applaud:
Am I to assume the Xbox will be hidden withing the raptor?
Clever girl.
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That's correct - it already is! The one you can see on the left is a second XBOX for the Vewlix - I'll be making a dedicated stand / game rack for that at some point :)
lol at the JP reference.
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Started working on the back cover/shroud for the display to conceal the various tubes and cables. Side pieces are cut and 6mm mdf used - I want this to be reasonably light but still sturdy enough.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade116_zps806397d3.jpg)
I didn't want a box shape - as I previously mentioned, this will end up in a position where the profile will be visible through an open door.
I will be making the marquee modular also - I want to be able to swap it out and replace it with a Kinect or Sony eye camera if necessary. I'll therefore fit a Neutrik USB port on the top panel of the shroud. The idea is to make this whole unit as flexible as possible after all ...
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A bit more progress, the last for the day. 2 for the 3 panels have been cut - will need to sort the other one out tomorrow.
It may look a lot bigger in the pictures than it actually is. It still needs to be screwed together once the wood glue has dried.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade117_zps1d5bd548.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade118_zps3b8db091.jpg)
This unit will be black and the sides will have a white, wooden trim added at some point to be in keeping with the general style. That's something for later though.
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A mini disaster this morning .... when I started drilling the pilot holes, the main back panel fell off! Goes to show that the 6mm MDF and wood glue don't mix particularly well. The quality of this board is different to the regular 12mm and 18mm boards. Managed to rectify the situation though and get the holes drilled and the screws in. I still have a lot to do getting this shaped up, fitting snugly (the cuts are good though) and covered in vinyl. I have been sure to leave the cooling vents on the display unobstructed.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade119_zps404f58f6.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade120_zps7fbe2c93.jpg)
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I'm sure that little mishap won't hinder your progress too much mate - it's looking great.
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Thanks shrunkenmaster - yes, it worked out ok.
Completed the basic piece - will still have to add to this but it's definitely looking a bit tidier at the back now.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade123_zps357a8d82.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade124_zps7469722a.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade125_zps3f2de2f9.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade126_zpsce8c67bd.jpg)
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I wish I had your patience and woodworking skills.
good day.
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Thanks chopperthedog :) Skills can be worked on but patience .. fortunately I've always had a lot of that. What helps more though is my wife's patience.
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Just have the marquee balanced on to of the display at the moment (and it's off-centre) but here are a couple of pic of what it will look like. When I make the mount for it, it will hover slightly above the top of the display. Constructive comments/feedback welcome as I'm not too sure about it but maybe it will grow on me. No artwork at the moment - just a piece of black paper. Rubbish photo quality also ....
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade128_zpsc29d2c87.jpg)
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/XBOXArcade127_zpsdbfdb1b3.jpg)
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Farking amazing! :cheers:
Really didn't expect a marquee....I await more updates, I love me some pictures.
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Really appreciate your comments CoryBee, positive feedback is always a great motivator ;D
Annoyingly, it's too cold and snowy to do any work on the cab this weekend so I've been looking into the design of the 'pedestal for this cabinet. It will be a sit down affair with interchangeable control panels. I've looked at many different styles and wanted to make this look fairly intricate but have settled on something simpler.
(http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc26/SpaceHedgehog/pedestal2copy_zps961e232b.jpg)
1. Interchangeable panel - planned versions are 2 player, gun game and pinball panels at the moment - I have other ideas but I don't want to get ahead of myself :)
2. Fixed panel - this will have a lid for access and will accommodate a couple of USB ports for connection to the CPs
3. Main stand section - this will have an integrated drop down 'link' section to connect to the base unit. The front facing panel for this unit will be 'sculpted (purely for aesthetics) and recessed to allow a comfortable seating position.
4. Vewlix type panel - just for some interest
5. Legs with adjustable feet - I'm addicted to those and thing they finish any build off nicely.
Comments/feedback/suggestions welcome.
I really need to invest some time in acquiring 3D modelling too skills ....