Yes, the driver could have been hidden above the copper plate in a recess carved into the underside of the upper wood plate. That’s one of those things that would likely be changed if there is a second version built. That would be a little tidier looking. There’s no practical reason to ever remove a panel. The main reason the panels were made removable was to make assembly easier. Sticking the paper on the inside of the grids would have been awkward at best if the grid assembly was a more permanent part of the unit. 
For Christmas my lantern project was gifted to our son. Here it is at it’s new home. (He has the bookshelving with the matching Shoji style doors.)
Nice 
What a beautiful gift!
Looks great there, MD. Pairs nicely with that wine rack - another one of your creations?
No, I did not make the wine bottle rack. It is a Jaanese styled item as is the lantern, though. I did help paint the back wall 
and tile the (unseen) floor.
Exceptional piece of work there Don! Love it! 
your son is fortunate to have an artist like you around
Excellent gift and composition. I would also like such a gift.
It would be good to see the final location of this unique work …
Ok, I’m impressed.
Hé Scott, nice to see you again.
Must be some 500+ days between this and your previous post.
you sir are an artist!
i love all your work