My project vision was to design, build and apply a motion control system to explore a classic filmmaking technique: recreating a selection of CGI animations with a real model.
I was awarded the Dean’s Prize for excellent problem-solving and technical achievement.
I chose to be guided by four design values: Attention to detail - Accuracy - Rigidity- Simplicity
The 14-week project (Feb-May 2021) combined all skills and qualities that I mastered during my degree, including:
Exceptional time planning | Thorough use and understanding of a range of making techniques
Creative and innovative problem-solving | Technical research, prototyping and design adjustment
Dedication, long hours and perseverance | CAD | Fusion 360 | Rhino | Mechanical Design
Machining | Turning | Spraying | Laser cutting | 3D printing | Welding | Electronics | Programming
I designed and built a 5-axis camera motion control system from steel and aluminium with a scale model of SpaceX’s Starship Rocket. The Rocket was mostly acrylic, model board and SLA printed parts. I included multiple addressable fiber optic lights. I planned shots in MAYA, designed and made the rig and used Dragon Frame stop-motion animation to send signals to an Arduino which controlled the motors.