3d Printing a Transformers Prop (Matrix of Leadership) _ How-To _ I Like To Make Stuff

**The Making of a Prop: A Journey from 3D Modeling to Electronics**

I began my project by creating a digital model of the prop, which was a dome-shaped piece with magnets on either side. I had envisioned using holes that were drilled to accept the magnets but didn't go ahead with modeling these holes as I thought it would be more challenging than necessary. Instead, I used a drill bit that matched the size of the magnets and attempted to create shallow holes for them to fit into. The process was not without its difficulties, and I found myself using super glue to fill the gaps between the drill bits and the magnet's surfaces. This method ultimately resulted in magnets that didn't sit perfectly flat against each other.

To improve this design, I decided to use a two-part epoxy mixture for drilling deeper holes. I knew that this would allow me to create more precise control over the depth of the holes and make it easier to place the magnets at specific depths. The epoxy worked well, but it did require some patience as I waited for it to dry before proceeding.

With the improved design in place, I moved on to attaching the handles to the prop. This was a crucial step, as I wanted all the pieces to be securely attached to a single plate so that the dome on the back could be easily removed without connecting to any other components or electronics. To achieve this, I used CA glue and carefully placed each handle in position before securing it with additional glue.

**Sanding and Measuring**

One of the key steps in creating the prop was ensuring that all surfaces were perfectly flat. This involved sanding down the bottom of each piece to create a smooth surface. I also took the time to measure the gaps between the panels, using my calipers to enforce these measurements as I attached them. By doing so, I was able to achieve a seamless fit without any noticeable gaps or overlaps.

**Assembly and Electronics**

With all the components in place, it was time to add the electronics. I had decided to mount the switch on the handle itself, tracing its outline with a sharp knife and drilling a hole for it. To accommodate this, I removed a section of material using a drill bit, allowing the switch to fit snugly inside.

Next, I set up all the electronics in place on the backside, securing them with hot glue. This served as an insulator for the components and made it easy to remove them if needed. To power the prop, I used a two-sided velcro strip, applying contact cement to both sides before attaching them together.

**The Final Touches**

Once everything was in place, I snapped on the battery pack and secured it with the velcro. Finally, I lined up the back panel with the magnets and attached it to the prop.

Throughout this project, I learned a great deal about 3D modeling, electronics, and prop-making. While there were certainly challenges along the way, I'm incredibly happy with how the final product turned out. This prop was my first attempt at a full-scale project that spanned multiple stages, from digital modeling to electronics, and I'm excited to tackle even more complex projects in the future.

**Conclusion**

The experience of making this prop has been invaluable, and I hope that others will find it useful as they work on their own projects. The code for the electronics will be available on my GitHub page, where you can access it if needed. As always, I encourage you to subscribe to my channel and explore other videos for unique content.

Please note that the 3D files used in this project were not well-suited for release due to their poor quality.