Interest Doctor Who 12th Doctor's Sonic Screwdriver, Confession Dial & Sonic Stand

[Doctor Octoroc]

Hi,

Excellent work - It's always a marvel to see how people take a couple of on screen glimpses and limited number of images to develop things so quickly.

Please sign me up for the static Confession Dial, Sonic Screwdriver Kit and Port Stand Kit.

Thanks (and festive greetings!)

Thanks for the interest! There's no need to sign up for those as they'll be available indefinitely directly from Shapeways once they're ready! Only completed sonics and the electronics kits will be limited run based - anything that's just 3d printed will be unlimited run based.

Although I should point out that the static Confession Dial isn't designed to work with the port stand, you'll need to grab the complete one that has the inside details modeled as well as the port stand fits into that inside part - but I'm going to make a version of that available that doesn't include the orb in the center so you can grab that one when the time comes.

I'll be sure to outline all of the options and provide links to the exact files you'll need for each one when I post the FS thread.

 

[Doctor Octoroc]

Re: Doctor Who 12th Doctor's Sonic Screwdriver, Confession Dial & Sonic Stand

Happy holidays, everyone!

My girlfriend's awesome mom got me a Shapeways gift certificate for X-mas so I'll be putting that towards the prototyping process for the sonic, confession dial and stand. I should have the electronics package prototype in hand sometime early January so I can finish up the housing design and order the first test prints. It's pretty close to finished as is now, I just need to confirm the fit of everything before I can finalize the design.

This is basically what the housing will look like with the electronics in place - the LED's will fit into their own separate housing area in the front end of the sonic.



If anyone has any feedback on the design, appearance-wise, chime in now! I haven't watched the X-Mas episode yet, need to wait until my girlfriend and I are both free so we can watch together but I've heard that there isn't much extra to go off in terms of confirming the accuracy of this design thus far so this may be as accurate as I can get it for this model.

Again, if anyone sees any way to improve it, now is the time to speak up! This is the most recent screen grab of the thing - minus the latest changes to the inner housing.

 

[Doctor Octoroc]

Okay, so I watched the X-Mas episode and yeah, no extra information concerning the sonic itself - he barely used it! I suppose we can see if any new information surfaces from the Rubber Toe updates but that's probably about all we'll get between now and the new season unless someone on here is fortunate enough to get some inside info elsewhere.

 

[Doctor Octoroc]

So some new information on the sonic - if you can call it that. I don't generally like reading into info that's not seen in the show or confirmed as canon but out of curiosity, I bought the sonic screwdriver app (as per DR11's mention) and there are a number of noticeable things I found.

First off, the light modes.
DR11 already pointed out that there are four light modes:

1) Blue solid
2) Blue revolving
3) Green on
4) Green pulsing

Now maybe they just added some options to the app to make it worth paying for, but the teaser video for the Rubbertoe replica show that it does indeed have green lights so showing this in the app is a confirmation that it's relevant enough to be shown prominently in two separate representations of the prop. Whether or not this is all possible to replicate in a custom board and hand-built components remains to be seen but it's worth mentioning. Chances are, the electronics package for this will just be a revolving blue mode - but I'm curious if anyone is adamant about it including green as well in some form (be it a solid glow or a pulsating one).

Second, there are screws on the back of the sonic that we can't see in any other shots.
And they are confirmed to be hex screws!



They appear to be the same screws as on the sides holding the mechanical bits in place, as well as the ones fastening the four prongs on the lower cage section. It also makes sense for the way Robatto built the others (10th's had a similar screw on the back and 11th's had one in the white grip as well as a smaller one for the emitter). Plus, I doubt they would throw these onto the model in the app if they weren't there on the real deal, so I think I should add these to my model as well.

Anyone else want to weigh in on this?

Third thing I noticed that wasn't 100% confirmed - the knurled texture on the ring just below the 'cage' section:



It's definitely textured, not smooth. So that's a good confirmation.

Considering this is all we'll get until the next series, or until RT decides to release another teaser video/image - I think adding the screws is the only thing I can do to improve the current model.

Thoughts?

 

[Doctor Octoroc]

Latest updates to the model:

First off, here's the inner housing for the electronics, framed out and near completion for housing the various electronics components. The top and front are fully open to allow access to install the electronics package as easily as possible.



Here are the screws on the back of the sonic, as seen in the app.



I also fixed the shape of some of the mechanical bits after taking a second look at the Rubbertoe post and saw some changes that needed to be made.



And lastly, I also noticed the ends of a brass rod sticking out from the sides of the rear portion in the app. I doubt this would be something they would build into the model used in the app if it wasn't on the real deal so I added it to the model as well.

 

[Doctor Octoroc]

Happy 2016 everyone!

The electronics design is nearing completion and soon after I'll be able to prototype the model. If anyone is interested and hasn't chimed in, feel free to do so or at least subscribe to the thread so you'll know when the FS thread goes up. The model kit for the sonic itself will be an unlimited run available directly from Shapeways but the electronics package will be limited (as far as I know, it's up to the other member) so you'll still need to be attentive to the availability of either one to be able to grab both at the same time!

And for anyone interested in completed sonics, I have about half a dozen people who have shown interest so I'll likely be able to offer them as well - definitely let me know if you're interested in that as I'll be able to offer each for less if I have more people interested - plus that will be a one-time run so don't miss out when the time comes!

 

[macman27]

That is great to hear, definitely count me in for a completed sonic!

 

[StarFox]

That is great to hear, definitely count me in for a completed sonic!

Me too =)

 

[Doctor Octoroc]

One last update before I order the parts! Here is the full thing as of all the most recent updates to the model.



First off, after the other member did some testing, it's looking like the electronics package will now include both a revolving blue light and sound recorded straight from the show! I recorded the sonic noise from the end of the series finale and looped the latter portion on itself for extended play. The sound chip being used allows for about 20 seconds of play then the sound will end so it won't loop indefinitely (this way if the switch get's flipped on accidentally, it won't stay on) but I doubt anyone is looking to leave it on for that long.

It will work with a two-way slider switch so that when pushed all the way back, the lights and sound will activate - then when pushed all the way forward, everything will turn off. It functions this way due to the distance the switch actually travels across the face of the switch plate (so as to be accurate to the prop) being greater than the distance the switch component travels from front to back. The switch is designed so it can be inserted at about the mid point but can't come out when positioned any further forward or backward from the center point. What this means is that the switch and mechanical bits on the sides would all have to be removed in order for the front end to come off - access to the batteries, however, can be accessed more easily with a twist lock back portion as I mentioned earlier in the thread. I've redesigned this as well so that it's a double-peg twist lock (was single peg before).

Second update is I made the knurling more subtle. Before it was straight cuts but I rounded it out so that it will appear more as it does in the show, as a texture rather than a significant physical cut-in.



Third update is that I decided instead of the brass rod features that hold the mechanical bits together being recessed, they're now protruded to be easier to paint in order to differentiate them from the metal bits.



At this point I'm confident that I've done as much as I can before actually testing the physical prints so I'm planning to put the order in tomorrow. I should see them within a week or so after which I'll test the fit of the electronics in the housing and if all goes well, should have a finished, painted, assembled and fully functional sonic to show off and will shortly after make them available to order on Shapeways. Barring any unforeseen setbacks, it's looking like a end of January availability at this point.

I'll also gauge the time it takes to do so and price out a fully finished sonic for those who've expressed interest. While the kits on their own will be available indefinitely, these will be a limited run - subscribe to this thread if you haven't already so you don't miss out when the sales thread goes up - I will only be doing one run of them!

 

[justanuthercap]

Definitely interested in the full kit and electronics package. (Just getting my name in there for the electronics package as I know the kit will be on shapeways.)

 

[Johnnyfl]

One last update before I order the parts! Here is the full thing as of all the most recent updates to the model.

View attachment 576216

First off, after the other member did some testing, it's looking like the electronics package will now include both a revolving blue light and sound recorded straight from the show! I recorded the sonic noise from the end of the series finale and looped the latter portion on itself for extended play. The sound chip being used allows for about 20 seconds of play then the sound will end so it won't loop indefinitely (this way if the switch get's flipped on accidentally, it won't stay on) but I doubt anyone is looking to leave it on for that long.

It will work with a two-way slider switch so that when pushed all the way back, the lights and sound will activate - then when pushed all the way forward, everything will turn off. It functions this way due to the distance the switch actually travels across the face of the switch plate (so as to be accurate to the prop) being less than the distance the switch component travels from front to back. The switch is designed so it can be inserted at about the mid point but can't come out when positioned any further forward or backward from the center point. What this means is that the switch and mechanical bits on the sides would all have to be removed in order for the front end to come off - access to the batteries, however, can be accessed more easily with a twist lock back portion as I mentioned earlier in the thread. I've redesigned this as well so that it's a double-peg twist lock (was single peg before).

Second update is I made the knurling more subtle. Before it was straight cuts but I rounded it out so that it will appear more as it does in the show, as a texture rather than a significant physical cut-in.

View attachment 576215

Third update is that I decided instead of the brass rod features that hold the mechanical bits together being recessed, they're now protruded to be easier to paint in order to differentiate them from the metal bits.

View attachment 576217

At this point I'm confident that I've done as much as I can before actually testing the physical prints so I'm planning to put the order in tomorrow. I should see them within a week or so after which I'll test the fit of the electronics in the housing and if all goes well, should have a finished, painted, assembled and fully functional sonic to show off and will shortly after make them available to order on Shapeways. Barring any unforeseen setbacks, it's looking like a end of January availability at this point.

I'll also gauge the time it takes to do so and price out a fully finished sonic for those who've expressed interest. While the kits on their own will be available indefinitely, these will be a limited run - subscribe to this thread if you haven't already so you don't miss out when the sales thread goes up - I will only be doing one run of them!

Looking really nice :thumbsup

 

[Doctor Octoroc]

Alright, order has been submitted! I ordered everything I'll be offering including the sonic and a few versions of the confession dial and stand add-on. I created a second version of the stand without all the housing for electronics for those that just want to build a static version. But I also added a part for the version of the stand that people will want electronics inside - including a holder for three standard LR-44 button cell batteries (same kind used in the sonic) that clips into the underside of the assembled stand. Like the sonic, any electronics package can be pre-assembled and then implemented.



The batteries can be hard wired or used in conjunction with contacts (recommended) - I'm looking into offering pre-assembled packages for the stand much like the ones for the sonic but it depends on how many people would be interested. Unlike the sonic electronics, this one is simple and a relatively easy DIY for someone with even basic soldering skills. Mine are rubbish and I'll still be able to make something work.

In a few weeks I'll be posting a ton of information including images and videos of all the finished prototypes (sonic, dial, stand) and some documentation of my process, all of which will help you guys with your builds.

 

[macman27]

Alright, order has been submitted! I ordered everything I'll be offering including the sonic and a few versions of the confession dial and stand add-on. I created a second version of the stand without all the housing for electronics for those that just want to build a static version. But I also added a part for the version of the stand that people will want electronics inside - including a holder for three standard LR-44 button cell batteries (same kind used in the sonic) that clips into the underside of the assembled stand. Like the sonic, any electronics package can be pre-assembled and then implemented.

View attachment 576502

The batteries can be hard wired or used in conjunction with contacts (recommended) - I'm looking into offering pre-assembled packages for the stand much like the ones for the sonic but it depends on how many people would be interested. Unlike the sonic electronics, this one is simple and a relatively easy DIY for someone with even basic soldering skills. Mine are rubbish and I'll still be able to make something work.

In a few weeks I'll be posting a ton of information including images and videos of all the finished prototypes (sonic, dial, stand) and some documentation of my process, all of which will help you guys with your builds.

I'd be interested in a pre-assembled stand. My wiring skills suck, and will take all the help I can get

 

[Bluebox303]

Nick has posted a high resolution picture of the sonic on Facebook. There may be some things you want to change about your model.

 

[Doctor Octoroc]

Nick has posted a high resolution picture of the sonic on Facebook. There may be some things you want to change about your model.

I saw that. Of course I didn't see it until moments after I ordered the prototype of mine...I definitely do see some differences but I'll revisit the model once I have the 3d printed parts in hand to compare instead of looking just at the 3d model.

First few observations:

- The hex screw heads are thicker in depth on the prop and are recessed on the "cage" arms.

- The rear portion under the "cage" is thinner on the prop than on mine and some parts are a bit longer - namely the base section of the end cap.

- The emitter shaft also appears to be a tad shorter but it could just be the angle of view since the first image was shown from the front angle.

- The "cage" arms and slots appear a bit thicker as well - which is funny since I thinned them out after comparing it to the show version when it first appeared in the console port and thought mine were too thick.

Luckily none of the discrepancies seem to be around the body portion, which would completely muck up the implementation of the electronics.

On the down side, this means that I need to also edit the port stand since it needs to fit perfectly around the base of the sonic...

 

[Jintosh]

If you are using Shapeways.....you have right up until it goes into production to CANCEL the order.

Just click on the order and there will be a cancel option.

 

[Doctor Octoroc]

If you are using Shapeways.....you have right up until it goes into production to CANCEL the order.

Just click on the order and there will be a cancel option.

Apparently, this is the fastest Shapeways has ever put an order into production. Seriously, it always takes a few days at least, sometimes a week - but less than 24 hours after I put the order in, all of the models I ordered are in production so I can't cancel now...

I'm fine with that though. The changes I will need to make are cosmetic so it won't change the time frame - and I honestly like the way mine looks before making the changes - since we didn't know everything about the prop at first, I had to make some guesses and those guesses were informed by my personal tastes so once I see what's different, I can be a little biased towards my own design. It's kind of like a client being vague about what they want and specifying later on only after I've gone a different direction with my own artistic input haha. It happens all the time and when it does I usually try to convince them that mine's better :lol

Not to worry, it'll be corrected for the final model - but mine will be my own take on it, I guess you could say. Although we still don't know for sure what the overall length is so I'm still facing choices of either increasing the length of a part vs decreasing it's thickness to match up to the original length - or adding some length with the edits - that sort of thing. If I wait until I've prototyped mine before I make those changes, we may get another image from Rubbertoe before I eventually do make the changes.

 

[Doctor Octoroc]

Eh, screw it - I started working on the edits tonight since I'm going to have to make them eventually anyway. Still some things that need to be changed but I wanted to get the tail section done first since that's the biggest change. I thinned it out, elongated the knurled section and fixed the thickness of the brass ring and angled end cap. I also thickened up the cage arms a tad to better match the prop.

Here's a comparison shot - it'll look off in some parts but that's mainly due to the perspective in the picture as the lens angle in the prop photo is more extreme (you can see this in how the front and back ends both taper towards the ends whereas on my model, the perspective is subtle).



I think aside from small edits, the rear portion had the most issues since that part was covered up by Capaldi's hand in the screen grab I used for all the sizing and proportions and I was forced to use measurements from the prototype and eyeing the sonic in the show. Other things I'm noticing:

- The hex screws on the four cage arms have been "recessed" but the ones on the sides of the body and back of the sonic will need to be thickened and the ones on the sides need to be further up towards the front. I may just completely remove the ones on the back since we haven't seen them on the prop itself (only in the sonic app).

- The bands around the rods need to be thickened a bit. They're too thin on my model. I think this will account for the emitter looking shorter over all since the thinner bands show more of the rods and make the full length seem shorter.

- The brass rods running through the mechanical bits on the sides also appear to be a bit too thick on my model - I'll thin them out as well but they can't be too thin in certain places due to printing tolerances.

- The acrylic rods do also appear to be thicker on the prop than in my model so I'm going to look into getting thicker acrylic rods. Unfortunately, the next increment up may be too large so these might be as close as I can get without having to 3d print them - which will be far more expensive.

 

[gman13579]

I'm all in! I'd like an electronic sonic screwdriver and the base! pm sent

 

[Bluebox303]

I think the acrylic rods may just look a little big because of the glare of the green light. To be honest, I think the size for those looks fine on your model.