3D Modeling and Design

The first iteration of the arm cannon was made similarly to the rest of the armor (see armor section), but with Worbla Black instead of Sintra since there is a lot of fine detail here. This sadly had to be ripped apart to deal with some electronics issues after the first convention. I had just started to learn 3D printing at this stage, so this became my first project for 3D printing a full prop!

The scaled game model was first imported into Fusion 360 to use as a base. The model was then fully recreated, separating out various components to provide mounting for LEDs and batteries, simpler painting, and separability to install and service electronics. Most notably, the side oval protrusions near the top are made separable along a natural seam and allow direct access to the battery packs, which are slotted into the square slot on the core body. The thin top plate can also be removed as needed to fix any internals. The remaining pieces are largely meant for ease of production and were not removed after assembly.

All parts were 3D printed in PLA plastic.

Finishing and Painting

Components were primed and sanded up to 400 grit.

Paint was the same as the previous iteration - Duplicolor Metalcast rattle cans, first using the Ground Coat to metallize the surface, followed by the green candy coat. These cure to a hard, glossy, durable surface and no clear coat was required.

Matte-black lines were hand painted on the grooves at the end of the barrel.

Once the painting was complete, the permanent components were glued in place with super glue.

Electronics were then installed - see the electronics section for details.