I was kind of stupid when I wrote that. Once the health hits below 100% a top bar will disappear, ie. 92% would be 9 top bars and 2 bottom bars. 89% would be 8 top bars and 9 bottom bars. It seems confusing at first but I think once I implement the idea that it would make more sense as I test the frames out more and more.
Edit: I really like the idea Mischback. From the graphics perspective it looks pretty cheesy/fake. However, as a concept and a first draft it's amazing. I might suggest tweaking the bevel in addition to adding the rust and more detail that you plan on doing. It really reminds me of one of my old favorite games by Bungie, Marathon:
