I have learned that scaled models are used in just about every industry that involves a design process: amusement park rides, products, and architecture just to name a few.
I make models out of everyday craft supplies for fun, but to also visualize my concepts.
Foam-Core Models
Mattel's Toy Clash 2023 Competition Winner "Puppy Pantry" Foam-core Model
Mattel holds an annual "Toy Clash" competition in which teams of artists, engineers, and marketers are assigned a random theme and play-pattern that they have to come up with an all new toy concept for in under two days.
This is the model I built in 3hrs, the day of the pitch (hence why it's a bit rough).
It was a real test of teamwork, ingenuity, and time management. Utilizing every team member's specialty to design a new toy, and then present a cohesive 20 minute pitch to a panel of judges and the competing teams (not to mention, anyone in the company who wants to attend as well).
I pitched this model in a classic television advert style, similar to that of a "Shark Tank" pitch. Ultimately, our team not only met the criteria of the challenge, but did so in a winning way!
Scaled Animatronic Mechanism Models
These models were my introduction into understanding animatronic mechanisms. I learned all there is to know about how linear actuators can be mounted in various ways to allow different parts of the mechanism to move.
Through building these models, I learned what needs to be constrained, and what cannot in order to achieve a particular motion.
I was able to replicate the motion of a pneumatic cylinder by making cylinders out of straws with small dowels inside to act as the plunger. I then used cardboard to create clevises to connect the cylinder onto the mech. Every cylinder "works" in the sense that it extends and retracts like it would on full-size build.
Reverse-engineered CEI Mech. Study- 2022
These models are built out of craft-sticks. dowels, cardboard, and straws.
Stage Dioramas
I make animatronic show stages for fun at various scales to display figures. I started with this 3-stage that is made with modularity and structural integrity. It is a frame that allows for backdrop and props to be added with ease.
Every backdrop is hand-painted and crafted; they are also removeable. The "grass" is also removable. Every prop is made of cardboard, paper, and craft-sticks. It is all hand-painted.
