TL;DR
Loader object art/functionality, instead of a 2x1 with one way in, the object should be 2x1 with 3 ways in(similar to a belt connected to an underground belt)What ?
In FFF #298, there was some concern about the art style and function of the loaders to promote the usage of belts other than using inserters. I have had similar feelings about loaders and how they affect the overall base aesthetic and functionality. My solution is as follows.Loader as a 2x1 object, but can accept a belt on 1 of the 3 sides of the input/output end of the loader. I am by no means an artist so I will describe the graphic as best as I can.
Starting from the 1x1 part that will connect to the factory or chest. The graphic should look like a single item width ramp with an opening that makes the item look like it is going inside the connected factory or chest. For train stations, the ramps could extend to the train cars.
The second 1x1 part would accept a belt input from 1 of the 3 directions a belt could be connected. Each would have a different way from "funneling" the items into the single lane, and therefore into the factory/chest/train.
Why ?
There are a few benefits to this way of making the loader work.1. The main goal is to enhance the illusion of items actually going into the connected factory. Deleting the entity would leave the items where they were on the ramp like an inserter. You could even make it "drop" a item onto the ground at the end of the ramp if no factory is present.
2. Increased flexibility that is not offered by vanilla inserters. I.E. the 90 degree insertion.
3. Funneling 2 items to 1 prevents making loaders OP, leaving inserters a place when stack bonuses start to dominate.
Just an Idea, thank you for a truly enjoyable game.