PROPOLOGY
Remote Manipulator Arm
from the TV series SMALLVILLE - "Legacy"
Project Notes
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The project was a co-produced with the SMALLVILLE construction department. They provided the aluminium and acrylic stand/enclosure assembly that our robotic arm rig was to be attached to (as well as and a large acrylic protective shield). The prop department furnished us with a couple of hobbyist's robotic kits that they considered a viable basis for this project.
It was our assignment to build these kits and cosmetically "dress" them to make them seem like an authentic industrial robot. As well, the completed assembly had to be able to insert a "Kryptonian key" into a recess feature in the SMALLVILLE "Kawachie Cave" set.
We were a little skeptical that this gear would be able to provide the smooth, accurate, programmed moves that were required. Unfortunately, given budget constraints, use of industrial-grade, or completely custom-built solutions were considered out of reach.
Shortly into the project, the wheeled platform was abandoned in favour of a rented industrial-grade, linear servo. It was much better suited to providing precise and repeatable locomotion to the arm, and was a terrific cosmetic improvement.
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LYNXMOTION - Lynx 6 robotic arm with motorized 4-wheel platform
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Modifications to the robotic arm kit:
(click on image to enlarge)
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1. Addition of 2 stock ABS plastic electronic enclosures to house the control circuit board and conceal the outboard hobby servo at the the base of the arm.
2. Application of laser-cut plastic structural details, that when applied, gave the impression that the arm components were more substantive than the plastic sheet they were actually made from (emulating the look like machined metal). 3. Installation of 4 laser-cut plastic covers to enclose the upper and lower arm assemblies. 4. Application of various laser-cut detail pieces made from simulated, brushed stainless steel plastic sheet (again, intended to convey the idea that arm structure was made from metal). |
5. Installation of 4 flashing "hazard-lights" (LEDs in incandescent indicator housings) that were activated whenever the robot was in use.
6. Application of various other detail items such as a black anodized aluminium heat sink (top of the servo housing) a fake emergency "kill switch" (front of the servo housing), a clear, self-adhesive rubber foot (front of the "end-effector" servo) to simulate an IR sensor, etc… 7. Replacement of the kit's black hex-socket screws with stainless steel versions. 8. Installation of black cable sheathing to cover the kits's multicoloured wiring. 9. Application of blue paint (from the SMALLVILLE color pallet) to all the major components. |
As a finishing touch, we applied a pair of art department provided "LUTHERCORP" decals to either side the linear drive component the robotic arm was attached to.
This project was fairly challenging to accomplish given the short turnaround and tight budget constraints.
That said, this is a good example of how the application of cosmetic components can really enhance
the appearance of an inexpensive, stock item.
That said, this is a good example of how the application of cosmetic components can really enhance
the appearance of an inexpensive, stock item.
