Maker Reveals Incredible 3D Printed Prop Used in Disney’s ‘Lilo & Stitch’
Movie props can be created in a variety of ways; a maker shared one with 3D printed parts for Disney's Lilo & Stitch.
Redditor HVDprops shared an update on a tool they were designing a couple of years ago for a movie that’s been recently released: Disney’s live action Lilo & Stitch.
The prop in question – a collar – is meant to keep Stitch in check. Which, if you’ve seen the movie (or the sequels and spin-off animated series), you’ll know is … more of a suggestion for the adorable alien.
Among the comments on the post, another Redditor who (allegedly) worked on the CGI of the movie, explained that both a physical and CGI prop were used. While the latter is the one seen in the movie (and in the image below), the physical prop “allows filmmakers on set to understand the scale and something to interact with.” Plus, it “gives the CG artist a good reference to how to make the CGI look as real as possible.”
The collar’s core was 3D printed in nylon on Formlabs’ Fuse 1+, while the outer part was printed with the Form 3 in “SLA” (which we understand refers to resin).
As for the actual design, it’s a compliant mechanism, meaning that instead of multiple parts making up a device that transfers energy, the mechanism gains mobility “from the flexibility of their material rather than form movable joints”. The Redditor also explained that the biggest challenge came from “getting the clear tubing to follow the bend and not buckle out when it opens or flexes.” This led to a bit of creativity and ingenuity, with an outcome that speaks for itself.
Because of copyright and such issues, the STL hasn’t been shared. For makers who may feel ambitious but may have a more hobbyist budget, HVDprops suggests that PETG might be good enough given the flexibility required for the part.
Read more recent news:
License: The text of "Maker Reveals Incredible 3D Printed Prop Used in Disney’s ‘Lilo & Stitch’" by All3DP is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.