interesting indeed...

i didn't consider booleans because i've run into a heck of a lot of issues with them.

i never know when is an appropriate time or not. in general, i've heard best to stay away from them.

but yeah, i guess there are a lot of steps requiring a careful eye.

so after these suggestions i realized that my starting point will have to be a little bit different. attached are some images of the physical model.

i won't be able to start with a pipe since the top surface will be enclosed......

any ideas?