Project: Tachikoma

[dimtec]

Hi people!
This is my second worklog. My project is called “Tachikoma” For those who are not familiar with the Anime “Ghost in the Shell” you could read:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tachikoma
I have never made a theme mod. I was looking for something original, using fibreglass. First I thought of a Battlemech, but a walking mecha is very difficult and expensive to build. So I decided for the Tachi. I have been always a mecha fan since Robotech times.
My plan is to use fiberglass for the case, and aluminum tube for the chassis.
It would be radio controlled, with two electrical motors and car batteries to power them.
First of all, I would need a 3D model of a Tachi. I thought of drawing it using some photos, but I realized that it would take too much. After a little Internet searching, I found a 4D Cinema model for 20 $
http://planetpixelemporium.com/objectpages/tachikoma.html
I imported into my CAD software and spited into several parts
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/01.jpg
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/02.jpg
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/03.jpg
I had to rebuild the geometry with my CAD to have some functional and moldable parts. Draft angles are needed to assure that the part would pop out of the mold.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/03A.jpg
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/03B.jpg
My plan is to install the batteries in the head, and the hardware in the back cockpit
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/03C.jpg
To build the fiberglass parts, I have to build some plugs, which would be an exact copy of the final part.
I made some 2D drawings with crossed sections for every part.
I finished with about 200 sections.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/04.jpg
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/05.jpg
I plotted the sections and glued to cardboard.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/06.jpg
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/07.jpg
I build a skeleton for every part, with glue and nails.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/08.jpg
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/08B.jpg
To fill the volume, I used 2 part polyurethane foam. It expands 30 times its volume. Little mess I made.
After a lot of sanding and sanding, and filler and bondo (I think I am in the 7th layer)
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/09.jpg
Connector between the head and the cockpit
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/10.jpg
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/11.jpg
The two parts for the cockpit
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/12.jpg
To realize the dimension of the model -50 cm ruler
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/13.jpg
Elbow
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/14.jpg
Eye
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/15.jpg
Arm
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/16.jpg
Front Cannion
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/17.jpg
Upper head
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_1/18.jpg
Lower head
One or two layers more are need to finish.

[dimtec]

I was working on a storage room on a common basement of the building.
You know, the sanding process generates a lot of dust, and I was covering with dust everything. So because I am a good neighbor, I decided to move to another place.
I have been looking for a place to work for 3 weeks.
At the end, a friend let me a place. It was a non used industrial building. I have a lot of space, and no one to disturb;
This is a photo of the new place:

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_2/Imagen079.jpg

A week ago I restarted the works.
I have been working on the plugs, sanding and repairing the surfaces.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_2/Imagen080.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_2/Imagen081.jpg

I have glued the plugs to a MDF table as a flange.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_2/Imagen082.jpg

I have done my first mold. This is a trial to see if it works. I have used plaster, and apart of some minor Faults, it’s okay.
I decided to use plaster because there are some bumps in the plugs, and I would fix then in the plaster molds

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_2/Imagen083.jpg

This is what I use for mold reinforcement. They are cotton yarn.
I have covered the entire plug, after waxing it, with a 2 cm layer of plaster. When it started to cure, I cover with another layer of plaster with the cotton.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_2/Imagen084.jpg


This is a special wax for molds I have used. It works really great, the mold popped out of the plug very easily

[dimtec]

I have found an assistant to help me with the details!! Courtesy of EBay

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_3/1.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_3/2.jpg

This is what happened to my test mold. I didn’t reinforce it properly on the back with cotton and it brooked a little. No problem since it was a test, but this shows the importance of a proper reinforcement of the mold.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_3/3.jpg

I have been working on the molds. Six done, two on process. 5 more to go.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_3/8.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_3/7.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_3/6.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_3/5.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_3/4.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_3/9.jpg

I am happy with the results of the molds. The normal mode to do mold for fiberglass is to make them of fiberglass, but if you don’t do them perfect at the first time, they are very difficult to fix after. I made my CAD drawings trying to maintain a draft angle of a minimum of 3 degrees, but it is difficult to assure with of all sanding and filling.
There are some minor fault with that I can fix sanding a little the molds, which would be very difficult to do in fiberglass molds.

[Scotty]

That render looks amazing for 20
And your work looks superb
+rep man for some awesome work :D

[Computer-Geek]

Welcome to the forums ! I look forward to see more progress :) The work you did so far is amazing ! *Subscribed

[Zephik]

zomg, yes. I love GITS! I have both the Stand Alone Complex and S.A.C series as well as all three films. Not too excited over the news about a Live Action movie though, not a big fan of live action. Although, the Death Note live action was pretty cool.

Newayz! I'll definitely be watching this thread. What you have so far looks pretty awesome! Doesn't look like your "half assing" anything. ^_^

[D1337]

Watched the series too, cant wait for the final result :)
goodluck

[|NQ|Squelsh]

Holy ****, that rocks!
I love GITS too and some years ago I started to model a Tachikoma in 3D Studio Max :)
Thread is subscribed, I am looking forward to the next steps! +rep so far for those huge molds.

Welcome to TBCS and good luck!

[SgtM]

Excellent work! +rep, and welcome aboard.

[The boy 4rm oz]

This is awesome. subscribe and +rep.

[rendermandan]

Very nice job! +rep

[0m3g4]

WOW! Very creative, +rep.

[|NQ|Squelsh]

Please say that this project did not die! I'd love to see that Tachikoma put together...

[Computer-Geek]

Please say that this project did not die! I'd love to see that Tachikoma put together...

Same here :eek:

[peverbian]

Please say that this project did not die! I'd love to see that Tachikoma put together...

This.

I also had the idea a while back, but was going to use a charcoal grill, upside down as the main housing. It's just the right shape. Alas, the house and girlfriend and work have been taking all my time. Hopefully sometime this winter I'll get to start on it. If the original guy is still reading, PM me and I'll give ya some cool ideas I had for the mod.

[Computer-Geek]

Did you stop working on this ?

[b4i7]

Did you stop working on this ?

seeing as he hasnt posted/ logged in in near 6 months im gonna go with yes

[FrooP]

someone drop him a mail that we will burn down his house if he wont continue posting pics now

[FrooP]

Its Allive!!!!11111

[Acey]

Cool as blue hell.... and what a large place to mod at.. sweeettttttttttt

[FrooP]

http://forums.bit-tech.net/showthread.php?t=134493&page=2
he forgot us :<

[dimtec]

I havent forgotten you!!!
I would post an update tonight.

[The boy 4rm oz]

Yay!!!

[Dane Bramage]

very impressive. the amount of effort is staggering. keep it up... and keep us informed... PLS!!!

[dimtec]

Tachikoma is back again to work!!!


One year ago, I was making plaster molds. When I restarted to work on them, I found the plaster molds with a lot of cracks an pits, nearly useless. I was told that I should have sealed them with primer berore storage them. So they have a sand end, at least I use them for let my frustations out...

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3301.jpg

I decided to go for fiberglass molds. I thought to have better finish of the surface of the plugs to have better molds finishing and to have minimun sanding of fiberglass. (At the end I have to sand anyway, I am really tired of sanding. If you ever decide to build something on fiberglass, be ready to do lot of sanding)

I cover the plugs with layers of gel-coat. Is similar to polyester resin, with the same calayst. After it cured, I sanded all the plugs, what took ages.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3302.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3303.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3328.jpg

Another recomendation: My first plan was to build the plugs as two parts, one for every part of the mold, and join it after. But after some trials it is likey I would have some bumps on the joint, so I joint the plugs halves together to have better finishing on the joint, like a replica of the final part.
After that, when I was more or less happy with the plugs, I cover with an epoxy primer.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3471.jpg

To build the molds like this way, you need to divide the plugs in two halves. Fist cover the half not to be molded.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3467.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3468.jpg

The half is marked by hand.

To build the flange, I used a flexible joint, like the ones used to seal the windows.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3469.jpg

To finish the flange, I covered it with plastic tape.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3472.jpg

Once you have the flange, comes the fun part with fiberglass.

First waxed the plug, by hand, 3 times.

Two layers of PVA, blushed.

Two layers of gel coat, brushed.

Two layesr of fiberglass mat, 300 gr m2.

ANd 24 h later can be pulled out of the mold.

Most of my plugs were destroyed with the process of pulling out the mold. Basically the foam, cardboard structure didnt have the strength to resit the stress of demolding. If some one have the idea of building something similar, I strongly recomend him to build the plug with some fiberglass to have the strength to resit the demolding process.

This is a part after pulling it off the mold

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3490.jpg

It has some extra fiberglass I cut with the dremel.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3491.jpg

The two parts of a leg, prepraring to be joined.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3488.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3489.jpg

I used fiberglass tape to join the two halves. After it cured, I cut the extra fiber and fixed imperfections with bondo.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3498.jpg

The same with the arms.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3496.jpg

The cannon

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3497.jpg

And the connector between the head and the backpack

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3499.jpg

For the head, I molded three eyes, and cut a hole in the head and inserted them.
I reinforce the inside with fiberglass and filled outside imperfections with bondo.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3495.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3494.jpg

Some preasembly without the frame.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3501.jpg
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3503.jpg
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3505.jpg


I have more to go for tomorrow

[jdbnsn]

This project is AWESOME!!!

[The boy 4rm oz]

Good to see you working on this again buddy. Really nice work.
I actually saw one of those toys the other day lol and it reminded me of this thread haha.

[Dane Bramage]

very kewl. glad to see you working on it again.

+rep for the magnitude of the build

[dimtec]

While I was finishing the plug for the backpack, I switched to work with the support frame.

Preassembly the central frame

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3500.jpg
This assembly system is used to build industrial ladders and stairs. The connectors are inserted inside the aluminium tubes. They had a setscrew that presses the tube and hold ti. It can stand more that 200 kg.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3508.jpg
Mounting the central frame in the lower body. I did some holes to pass the tubes.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3509.jpg
I also insert the elbows and the cannon the same way I did with the eyes.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3512.jpg
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3514.jpg
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3515.jpg
Monting the knees

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3516.jpg
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3517.jpg
Cutting the tubes

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3518.jpg
Drilling the tubes for the motor supports

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3510.jpg
Holes in the legs to pass the tubes

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3519.jpg
Mounting the front wheels

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3525.jpg
And the rear wheels with the motors. The motors are 2212 NPC DC Motors, similar to the ones used for wheelchairs. Imported from the USA

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_5/100_3545.jpg
Detail of the wheels mounting

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_5/100_3542.jpg

Much more to come...

[Dane Bramage]

RC or voice command?

heh

[dimtec]

It would be RC. Futaba radio. Voice would be interesting... could be for the future.

An update.

Some work with the electronics.
My first idea was to mount the batteries in the head, but there isnt enough space. So my plan is to mount the motherboard on the head, and the batteries on the backpack.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3533.jpg

This is the motor controller, Roboteq AX2550, capable of manage 120 amps per channel, and conectable to an RC controller of a motherboard by serial port.
My motors have a maximun amps comsuption of 80 amps, stall.
To support the controller I am using a simple plastic tray, like the ones used in the kitchen.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3534.jpg

The second level supports the motherboard and the power supply, special one that could be connected to a battery.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3535.jpg

Some details

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_5/100_3537.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_5/100_3538.jpg

This is the control board. I also used a plastic tray.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_5/100_3536.jpg

From up to down, and left to right.
Motor battery switch; Motherboard power supply switch
Motor battery fuse; Diode bridge for batteries charge; motherboard battery fuse
Battery voltaje indicator (not showed); ground concentrator

Lot of cabling to prepare

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_5/100_3540.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_5/100_3541.jpg

50 mm section cable for motors power supply.

More tomorrow

[The boy 4rm oz]

Looking more and more awesome with every update.

[Dane Bramage]

i'm in awe.

is the cannon gonna work too?

heh heh

[dimtec]

I thought in installing a servo and make it spin, but I am concentrating on finishing this for a lanpaty to the end od this month.

Continue.

This is the mainboard with the cables

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_7/100_3575.jpg

Back to the backpack

I moulded several "eyes" to used in the backpack, and fixed them to the plug.


http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3493.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3492.jpg

Building the molds. The plug is inside

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3511.jpg

The molds pulled out. There was several areas I had to fix with bondo.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3523.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_4/100_3528.jpg

I drilled some holes and used air compressed to release the parts form the molds

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_5/100_3546.jpg

The parts

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_5/100_3539.jpg

Joining the backpack

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_6/100_3554.jpg

Cutting the backpack for inside access

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_6/100_3555.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_6/100_3556.jpg

Testing the backpack position

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_6/100_3562.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_6/100_3563.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_6/100_3564.jpg

To power this baby I am going to use two 75 amp/h gel batteries. Around 25 kg each one

Testing the position

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_6/100_3560.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_6/100_3561.jpg


The frame resits the weight and doesnt turn over!

More to come

[The boy 4rm oz]

Man this is looking bloody fantastic. Excelent work.

[Zephik]

Man this is looking bloody fantastic. Excelent work.

Ditto!

[dimtec]

I have been rebuilding the backpack frame to screw the backpack to it and fixed in position

Using my laser to mark the holes

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_7/100_3567.jpg

Two holes drilled in the backpack to pass the frame through it.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_7/100_3568.jpg

Another hole to pass the cables to the batteries. Also a front pannel mounted. This way I can access usb ports and audio without having to take out the head.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_7/100_3576.jpg

Backpack in position. Detail of the hole for cables.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_7/100_3571.jpg

Hole in the head to pass the cables.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_7/100_3572.jpg

Support screw for the connector between head and backpack.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_7/100_3574.jpg

The connector where the cables are going through in place.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_7/100_3573.jpg

This is the main switch for motor batteries. I have mounted it outside for safety, in case it runs out of control.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_7/100_3577.jpg

Here is the RC for this baby. Futaba 6 channels.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_7/100_3566.jpg

This is the monitor I am planning to use. 7" tochscreen. I am not sure where to place it. I was thinking in the backpack, just over the panel. What do you think?

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_7/100_3578.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_6/100_3564-1.jpg

[Enigma]

Wow this is going to be sooo sweet, and radio controlled too.
This is one freaky thing, love it :)

[Eclecticos]

Above the smart card reader would be appropriate.
Not sure if that is here or there, having trouble determining what is what.

[jdbnsn]

This is quickly becoming one of my favorite projects, awesome work bro!

[b4i7]

i didnt realize how huge this thing is...absolutely amazing!

[dimtec]

What about the pannel?
I not sure about the position. I am thinking on changing it to the back of the head.

[dimtec]

Working on the head antenna.

It would be basically a couple of PVC pipes

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_6/100_3551.jpg in place

Testing them in place

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_6/100_3552.jpg

A hole drilled where the antenna in going to be

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_6/100_3553.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_6/100_3557.jpg

Tha lower antenna mounted

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_6/100_3558.jpg



Completed antenna

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_8/100_3580.jpg

I have been connecting the motors to do some RC testing.
I am using Anderson Power pole connector, high current.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_8/100_3583.jpg

I also have made a support for the batteries from MDF wood.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_8/100_3582.jpg

Here is the tachi waiting to live. I could not test it today because I have no batteries for the receiver. :wallbash:
If all goes well. I would test it tomorrow and record a video to show you.

I have also to do some cleanning before painting. To give you an idea I have another two piles like this

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_6/100_3559.jpg

[Acey]

Mate, you got me thinking how scary it is a modder can get wiht that much electronics knowledge in his head lol. Awesome molding. Btw, I've never tried out bondo and fiberglass so which one is harder to sand actually?

[p0Pe]

this mod is coming out SO awsome! im excited to see how it turns out:D

+rep

[dimtec]

maYT0fduw2E

Its alive!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Acey]

Freakin awesome!!!!........ would be nice if can make those legs move and the whole thing scatter around the room :D

[crenn]

What's scrapping on the ground?

[985323]

Oh God its after me!!!! *runs away*

[The boy 4rm oz]

Dood this is bloody fantastic. Excellent work.

[dimtec]

Creen, the noise is caused by the wheels, scratching the fllor, as they are in a fixed postion. thats the reason because I decided to changed them.

Continuing with the worklog:

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3585.jpg

A slot for the motor batteries main swich.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3586.jpg

A fiberglass lip for support the access gate for the backpack. I just use tape to build it, and lay the fiberglass inside. I pulled out the tape when en the fiberglass cured.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3588.jpg

Modification on the lower head. Easier to mount the chassis, and I thinks it looks better. Some extra support would be necesary for the chassis in that part.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3589.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3590.jpg

Joining the nails for the arms. They are made of copper tubes, sanded for better painting, and joinend with resin and bondo.

All the parts waiting to be painted.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3591.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3592.jpg

I hung all the parts for better painting. I looks like a modernist artistic performance or something...

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3593.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3594.jpg

The parts primmed. Two componet high build primmer.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3595.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3596.jpg

More to come.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3630.jpg

[Mach]

I am constantly amazed at the talent that modding attracts. dimtec you have serious skills with mold making and fiberglass. Thanks for posting the updates. +Rep!

[The boy 4rm oz]

This just keeps getting better and better. Keep up the fantastic work, I can't wait to see how this turns out. +rep

[dimtec]

The last photo is in the Campus Party, the biggest lan party here in Spaain. Around 6000 people, 1 week. I have made like 800 km with my Tachi in my car to enter the moddind contest. The other robot is a military one, the kind used to deactivate bombs.
There are some mods here to show. I would post some photos.

Continuing with the worklog.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3597.jpg

Masking the parts. There are areas in white and silver.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3598.jpg

Firs coat of blue. I have to say it looks better in the photos than in reallity. I was in a hurry to finish for the campus. I am thinking of repainting some areas...

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3599.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3600.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3601.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3602.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3603.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3604.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3605.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3606.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3607.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3608.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3609.jpg

This is the support solution for the lower head

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3611.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3612.jpg

Front wheels Version 2. I am thinking right now in version 4...

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3614.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3616.jpg

Complete assembly.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3617.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3618.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3619.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3620.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3621.jpg

Front wheels, version 3.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3622.jpg

Main switch, reset switch and motor controller switch.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3624.jpg

Activity Leds.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3625.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3626.jpg

And this is Tachi in the Campus party. I still have more photos to post.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_9/100_3635.jpg

[The boy 4rm oz]

That is a nice colour. Can't wait for more pics.

[rendermandan]

how about some video of it moving around too?

[Acey]

mate, may i know what's the name of that color? instead of "blue" lol

[dimtec]

Acey, I cannot tell you the name. I just went to the Paint Shop, look at the catalogue (they have like hundreds of colours) and select the one I like it most. It is car paint.

Well, I am nominated as finalist for the modding contest. The final is tomorrow. I dont know the prices, some hardware I supposed.

Here are some photos of other moddification of last minute:

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3665.jpg

A detail of the front wheel, V3. I am not happy with it but that what I have for the moment, and they are working good.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3666.jpg

Cover for the wiring to the motors. I would prefer them in silver.

Here are some photos of the Tachi at the Campus:

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3670.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3671.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3672.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3673.jpg

Here is a video in action. The very ugly guy without hair at his head and too much hair at his leg is me...

http://es.youtube.com/watch?v=YxBM8DbaEXw

Also some photos of the competitors:

A mod from Chuskoi, he has won several times the contest. He is the best working with acrylic. The level of finishing is superb.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3674.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3676.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3660.jpg

A piramid

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3675.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3661.jpg

A computer-skate

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3682.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3683.jpg

The skate resist the weight of a person. The owner passed aroud on it.

The PEK clan mods (creators of the Tetris Mod) based in the Four Elements:

Earth
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3677.jpg

Fire
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3678.jpg

Air
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3679.jpg
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3680.jpg

Water
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3681.jpg


You dont know what useful is the Tachi for the girls... "OOOhh is so cute!! it is yours??"

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/campus_08/100_3645.jpg

Sorry for the blur, I had other 12 guys behind me fighting for the camera....

[The boy 4rm oz]

Great pics mate. Some of those other mods are awesome.

[Dane Bramage]

indeed... i am awed at the work there. completely blows away any idea that i have had. tho, i particularly love the skateboard. and the fact that it actually skates is just brilliant.

way to go on being a finalist. good luck.

[DonT-FeaR]

thats cool nice work mate

[dimtec]

I have returned from the Campus Party, and have taken a week without using a computer.
I finished 2 in two categories. originality (won the computer skate) and special projects (won the 4 computers of 4th elements)

Here are some videos and phoits of my Tachi at the campus, even in a national newspaper and in the tv.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27GbkIq6xiA
27GbkIq6xiA
YxBM8DbaEXw
http://www.publico.es/ciencias/139145/artistas/modding
http://es.engadget.com/2008/08/01/campus-party-2008-zona-modding-tunning-en-la-campus/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YxBM8DbaEXw&feature=related
http://www.krizio.com/index.php?showimage=10
http://www.neopontec.com/blog/uploads/CampusParty2008/Campusparty2008-robots-1.JPG
http://www.inagotable.net/category/campus-party/
http://zitronensaft.blogspot.com/2008/08/tachikoma-looking-pc-mod.html

My plans is to continue with the Tachi:
- Fix some paint fails
- Installa a camera on an eye to control the tachi from other computer
- Replace front wheels
- Add more details
- Install some computer controlled arms

But I am going to take it more slowly than before, so dont expect to have this worklog so updated as the latest time.

Also I have some plans for my next mod, I am finishing the 3D and I would post the begging of the worklog soon!

[The boy 4rm oz]

Great news mate. Can't wait for the new updates.

[Mach]

Congrats on second place but I think you should of had 1st place over the skate board. Can't tell what the 4 elements looks like but it would have had to have rocked to beat what you've done.

[DonT-FeaR]

welll.... 2nd..... RAGE MTHR FKR omg bent plexi and a pc into a skate board vs a rc monster thingo hmmmm

RC MONSTER THINGO 4 SURE

[Dane Bramage]

while the skate was pretty cool... i mean really... you can skate on your computer... i think you're build should have won. there was so much more work into the Tachi that there is no comparison. srsly.

congrats on 2nd place.

+rep for awesomeness.

[ChevronX]

Nice work dude. I aspire to reach your potential

[dimtec]

I am back in work!
This weekend I went to the paint shop for more paint to do some repairs.
For the people asking about the "blue" colour, it is Monopol 3023 (not related to RAL codes). It is a french company.

I am working in some chassis improvement, and also trying to install the webcam in the tachikoma eye. Tomorrow I would post some photos.

[DonT-FeaR]

cool cant wait

[dimtec]

First, sorry for the bad quality photos, they were taken with my cell. My wife has the camera...

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_rebuild-01/Imagen002.jpg

I have simplified the central chasis, so the legs have more natural position. My Tachy had the legs as an"X", and not like the original , like "V" inverted.
In this way I can also lower the chasis. Now I have space in the head to install the main battery, so the weight would be more balanced. I am going to replace the second battery for a smaller one, like 7 amps/h only to power the motor controller.
Of course know I have to fill all the old holes for the chasis tubes. I would do tomorrow with fiberglass.
Also I have to shorten a little the front legs.

This is how it would look...

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_rebuild-01/Imagen001.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_rebuild-01/Imagen000.jpg

[The boy 4rm oz]

It really is stunning. A great inspiration. +rep

[dimtec]

I have been playing with a new controller, a Nintendo Wiimote. There is a couple of videos with a test I did. It is dificult to record the video and use the Wiimote at the same tiem. I would record a better video this weekend with my wife.

Here are the videos...
0CyUZk6jW7M
JG5PZaEKzYU

I have been building a suport for the battery in the head, with fiberglass and alumunium for reinforcement.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_10/Imagen010.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_10/Imagen014.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_10/Imagen016.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_10/Imagen017.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_10/Imagen018.jpg

I have filled also the old holes for the legs.

I am also adding some more detailing, like the ammunition compartment in the right arm. I am using a PVC pipe.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_10/Imagen011.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_10/Imagen012.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_10/Imagen013.jpg

To lower the weight, the battery for the motor controller it is going to be replaced by a smaller one.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_10/100_4081.jpg

New position of the legs

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_10/100_4082.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_10/100_4083.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i300/dimtec/tachi_10/100_4084.jpg

More tomorrow

[The boy 4rm oz]

I absolutely love this mod. Really good to see it constantly evolving. Love the idea of using a WII remote.

[DonT-FeaR]

kool

good work