TDK Batman mask/helmet - Custom build project

[Steyin]

Hey guys, I was curious if anyone has attempted to make the TDK mask/helmet. I was thinking of ways to accomplish this from the vantage point of one who doesn't know about casting, and today I found this site:

http://www.shapeways.com/

Basically it is a site that does 3D printing (which I have done before). So I got to thinking about modeling the mask in 3D and uploading it for anyone to use. First I have to clarify and check out some things:

The best material to use out of their selection seems to be the Cream Robust, as it is the sturdiest. The maximum size of the model for this material must be contained in a 13.7795" x 15.748" x 15.748" cube, and I'm sure the mask isn't bigger than that (unless the ears cause a problem).

As for price, its $2.50/cm³, but this applies for the total amount of MATERIAL used, NOT dimension of the object.

Since we see the mask being put on as a helmet, I don't see it being one-piece as a problem, and I'm sure it can be spray-painted black.

I'm going to e-mail them to see if such a feat is possible, but I won't know the ultimate cost of this until a 3D model is done. If anyone already has one already done, would they mind sharing? Otherwise I will ask everyone to contribute with images and all their knowledge of the mask so that we can come up with a 3D model as a community to share and hopefully get made.

So, who's up to this task with me?

 

[kapow]

have alook at the website
www.batmanunmasked.com

and go in to screen used prop pics there are some great photos of the bat-suit

 

[Steyin]

Thanks Kapow! Good reference material.

Anyway, I have two 3d models of the mask (although not the TDK one, but a slightly altered BB one), and I have asked Bane if he could lend a hand with his 3d expertise or offer the 3d model he has.

Also, I joined the forums at the 3d printer's site and am going to inquire about the feasibility, pricing and get some general opinions from them on how to go about this. I'll update this when I've made some more progress, but for now I'm in the middle of settling into a new apartment so I have hands tied and limited internet access.

 

[Gexmeister]

Wow, this seems ambitious. But wouldn't it be simpler to just mold one in latex as most costumers do? Or buy one from the bronze armory?

 

[Steyin]

Wow, this seems ambitious. But wouldn't it be simpler to just mold one in latex as most costumers do? Or buy one from the bronze armory?

Considering I don't know how to do that and am pretty damn good in 3D modeling, no its not easier for myself. Plus the 3D model can be rescaled and touched up for anyone who wants to order one for themselves.

And as for an update on this, I have my reference photos scaled, so next I'll be CADDing the triangulations for the head, then tracing them in 3DSMAX and forming the model. Been busy at work with a project deadline so I haven't had much time to model yet.

 

[siqzadams]

BA is a bunch of Hacks who have been proven to recast things -

Aside from that, sculpting and making a mold would be a whole hell of a lot easier...

I appreciat the way you want to do it being an Conceptual Design Architect by trade, but you're making it a lot harder than it needs to be - I sculpted my last TDK cowl in under an hour after the clay was mocked up -

I'm looking forward to seeing the projct progress, but dont make it harder than it needs to be - - -