Build your Robot - 3D Print Online

[Seb]

Interesting company sprung up with Robots, build how you like from an online GUI, then have them print your minions to be sent to your secret laboratory, part of your overall scheme to take over the World!



I realised I haven't added much to RA discussion on kits and modelling of late, but in coming across these various projects and services, I can't help but bring them to the group's attention with regard the future of this industry.

- Seb

[mangozac]

I'm left with one word in my mind: bizarre. I suppose the pricing is pretty good for custom colour 3D prints but I don't really get the point. They're still not detailed enough for the modelling enthusiast. I'm guessing they're too fragile to be toys. Certainly the talk of easy to use 3D modelling software is appealing though!

I suppose this is just one of many steps in the gradual redundancy of the scratchbuilder? I have no doubt that the technology will continue to improve (both the software - as seems to be the important part here - and the printers themselves) until one day people will be printing whole dioramas....

[blind pig]

[Lane]

WOW already offers a 3D print of your character.

[blind pig]

[Lane]

From what I remember the company making "officially licensed WoW figures" were within reasonable price range considering the figures were printed in color.

There would be a lot of work required to make a decent figure even if you stole the model from the game.

The game model is probably a lot lower polygon count that you want for a reasonable detail figure.

The game figure (most likely) uses three files: the base model, a bump map to add surface detail and a texture map for the color. To print the figure you would need to add the data from the bump map into the base model. A color print would probably require further modification of the base model with color data..

The game model would need modification to ensure structural integrity and ensure it is watertight.

None of that matters because if Blizzard found out someone was making unauthorized WoW figures they would make GW look like nice guys.

[Seb]

Having moved on from WoW awhile ago, I'm eager to commission a sculptor make 28mm versions of my three favourite characters so I can paint them up. That's the hard part when leaving an MMO, your digital fellows stay behind.

Much like 3rd Edition 40k dropping the individual ability to throw grenades, removing a warrior's ability to theatrically shield slam a caster (animation and all), pretty much ended the whole show. Essentially the straw + camel.

I would have gone the printed route, but the models are A). Too Large and B). Look like models varnished in the wrong conditions.