The Space Station V CAD model is just about done. And not a moment too soon… the complete unified model clocks in at 190 megabytes. It’s big enough that my computer is just about to the point where it’ll just give me a blank stare when I try to do something with the model. The conical faces of the hub need some detailing, the Orion III needs a fair amount of surface detailing (note: that part won’t be detailed enough to print off as a model on its own… it’s being made to be detailed enough at 1/1400 scale), some noodling around will be needed with the structures flanking the “spokes” (I’m assuming at this point that those bits will have to be photoetch).
As can be seen, the model features the “unbuilt” rim. Photoetch parts are planned for the skeleton of the structure shown in the movie. I understand that additional completed rim parts will be provided so that the station can be shown in its final finished form.
7 Responses to “SSV: Just about there”
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190 mb? Most of the RP services I use have a hard time building anything over 20mb. They take the stl file then create the slices, Big files take a long time to generate amd if they have to fix any errors that will add to the work needed to make the slices.
> Most of the RP services I use have a hard time building anything over 20mb.
There are two saving graces here. First, I’ve noticed that in general file sizes can collapse a *lot* when the file is converted from the native Rhino format to STL format. Second, there are a number of parts, so the file can be broken up.
I’d comment about the sale of the 3D model but I know I’ll be ignored…
Great work on this one. You’ve found a use for all your engineering training and schooling.
Selling the CAD file on a site like TurboSquid might be a good idea, you’ve used the file for what it’s intended, why not make more by selling copies to people using it for CGI work? Any extra money would be a big plus and you have a pretty substantial portfolio already.
> why not make more by selling copies to people using it for CGI work?
Because I got paid by someone else to make ’em the CAD model. Selling the CAD model would, in my opinion, be the equivalent of making a physical model kit under contract… and selling copies on the side. If I were to sell the CAD SSV, a buyer could print out their own and sell copies, thus competing with my original customer.
I understand that but the models at TuroSquid are mainly used for CG work. And if someone was going to copy the kit, they would use the casting’s and copy them or modify them. I’m not sure but I think you can sell the model with the stipulation that the CAD model will not be used to create a physical model.
Since you were commissioned dor the CAD model, a percentage could be given to the patron. Has anyone ever copied or produced a competing model of any of the model’s you mastered? IMHO the potential for income outweighs the possibilty of a competing model produced. Also, people who buy your models probably won’t buy one from another maker, for example, one of stratoqueer’s knock-off’s.
> Has anyone ever copied or produced a competing model of any of the model’s you mastered?
Yup. A few years ago one of those dirtbag Asian slave-labor el cheapo “authentic Philippine mahogany” display model companies was cranking out copies of many of the models I mastered for Fantastic Plastic, even including the FP box art. Feh.
What I don’t think I’d have a problem with is marketing (via turbosquid or whatever) the CAD models of those models that are no longer in production. A large number of my models for FP are no longer in production… but to my knowledge, only ones that were mastered the old fashioned way. I think all the CAD-mastered ones are still available. When those are no longer available, I’d have no ethical qualms about releasing the CAD model.