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slothfurnace
06-03-2010, 07:59 PM
Howdy folks, I figure I ought to start a thread on my next saber.

I wanted to go back to the roots again, this time with a Graflex ANH Luke saber.

I picked up a cheaply priced Graflex 2 cell on ebay, and proceeded to make it into a 3 cell.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/000.jpg

Unfortunately, I couldn't find anywhere that offered 3 cell back ends, so I decided to make my own out of some scrap capped 1.5 inch stock I had in the bin.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/001.jpg

I used my lathe to etch the pattern for the tab slots so I could get them even and straight.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/002.jpg

After removing the material with my dremel, it fits just as snug as the original two cell back.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/003.jpg

Next I thought about a crystal chamber. With much inspiration from those who have gone before me, I set off on my own direction, harvesting many parts from harddrives, old clocks, etc.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/004.jpg

I took one entire array of harddrive platters and lathed them down to fit inside the graflex rear. At this point, I have the ... middle decided on more or less, and I will be constructing from there out to either end. I want to make sure I leave enough room in the design for soundboard, speaker, batteries, etc.

The crystal chamber is made of various parts, the most intricate so far is the crystal holder, made of brass tubing, guitar string beads, some brass stock from an old clock, etc.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/005.jpg

Here is my Aqua Aura double terminated crystal, a very nice blue without lighting, but with...

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/006.jpg

...it really shines..


I'll be posting my progress here much like my ANH Obi saber (http://forums.thecustomsabershop.com/showthread.php?t=10564), hopefully I can tread some fresh ground with this project.

Thanks for looking,

slothfurnace.

ARKM
06-03-2010, 08:17 PM
*drools uncontrollably*

That crystal chamber is pure win, dripping with awesome sauce.

Noyl Wendor
06-03-2010, 08:21 PM
Wow,
Very nice work. I do like you turned a 2 cell into a 3. Very cool. I also like the internal chassis, I would have never thought to use hard drive, and clock parts.
I may be rethinking how to do the internal set up of my graflex.
Also thanks for posting your work, its kind of hard to find good refrences for a project like this.

cannibal869
06-03-2010, 08:30 PM
Two BIG thumbs up for outside-the-box thinking!!

Crystal Chambers
06-04-2010, 04:45 AM
Nice...everything! The ideas, approach, parts, look, pics, and contribution. I've had similar ideas for salvaging parts but lack the space and time to gut things for parts. I really look forward to seeing this one complete.

JamoUp
06-04-2010, 04:48 AM
Those parts are really coming together! Looks great!

Sunrider
06-04-2010, 04:57 AM
Nice. This is looking great. Good job.:cool:

Rhyen Skytracker
06-04-2010, 05:19 AM
That is AWESOME!!! Great job.

Skottsaber
06-04-2010, 06:46 AM
No dude. Stop. Please stop. I am VERY JEALOUS!
Jealousy leads to anger...

Please! I wanna stay on the light side!

DJMoonbass
06-04-2010, 08:39 AM
incredible work. very astonishing. keep it up i really want to see more of this. (man i need to build my own chassis. lol)

Lord Maul
06-04-2010, 03:08 PM
Very nice work! That had to be touch to make the new graflex bottom. It looks great. Now you just gotta put the grips on it :cool:

Borax
06-04-2010, 04:23 PM
SLOTH ! That is awesome. i love how everyone one this site is just so great at making really breathtaking sabers. That crystal chamber is astonishing! I thinks its crazy that you used tourmaline though... since as i said this morning in shout box I just picked up some green and blue tourmaline this weekend. as well as some rough cut low grade rubies, amethyst, and rose quartz :) I have a few ideas I am going to try out. I hope to use your idea of the hard drive parts as well as i think its a very creative idea and looks great.

looking forward to the next posts :)

Lord Dottore Matto
06-05-2010, 12:38 AM
Nice project. I will watch with interest.:mrgreen:

Ki-Djowac
06-05-2010, 12:58 AM
Looks incredibly awesome !

Matt Thorn
06-11-2010, 12:33 AM
slothfurnace, if you have an official fan club, I'd like to join. I would never in a million years have thought of using a lathe to etch lines that way. And the crystal chamber is a work of art.

NewRepublicjedi
06-11-2010, 04:59 AM
Wow... I mean just ...wow I'm going in to work to day to locate some old dead HD's for parts!

Tyhm
06-11-2010, 05:24 AM
I particularly like the scavenged aspect; in this day of people attempting to replicate CG effects with expensive custom-fabricated parts, it's nice to remember that the genre has its origins in "Whatever looks cool". Wasn't someone just saying Darth Vader's costume had hard drive parts in it? Can't remember, can't find it either...seems likely given that one of the ships was a shoe...it's good times. :-D

Nineteen
06-11-2010, 03:11 PM
I need to make room in my saber for a crystal chamber. This is amazing stuff.

slothfurnace
06-17-2010, 05:29 AM
Hey folks!

Sorry for the long time between updates, I have been on vacation.

But now, here's an update. I present to you my radiator section!

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/007.jpg

Some of you may know I was looking for some brass sheet, and I found 3/4 by 1 foot sections at my local hobby shop. I cut two of these down to sort of 2 inch sections, and drilled through a stack of them in a pattern that fit my three main frame posts. Here is my first rig, that didn't work too well on the belt sander, as it wasn't quite easy to hold, and therefore dangerous.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/008.jpg

Here you see my better rig, bolted to a piece of scrap walnut, this lets me shave the brass down on the belt sander without bending anything near the bottom of the stack.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/009.jpg

Here I have the stack pretty much shaped, I removed the harddrive platter retainer as I got closer to the shape I wanted, so as not to scuff it up.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/010.jpg

Now for the radiator line holes. This, again was drilled out on the drill press.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/011.jpg

I had a devil of a time hollowing them out on the inside, to make a C.. I will probably revisit that inside contour, as I am not quite satisfied with it. Also, after drilling, I sandpapered each section to remove any flash or sharp edges from drilling.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/012.jpg

Here we are assembled and test fit. I am again using brass guitar string ends for spacing, and scrap brass rod from a broken clock to run through the sections.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/013.jpg

Here's where I need to work on the inside contour... I am not quite happy with that yet, I will hollow it out a bit, and add some interesting details in there.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/014.jpg

A closeup of the radiator section, shows my first bend. I will bend the rest of the rod around like that to make it look like tubing that needs to be cooled,,, or heated, or whatever.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/015.jpg

And another shot of the crystal. After assembling this, I think I will lower the placement of the radiator a bit to overlap with the crystal some. The radiator ended up being a bit longer than what I had in my original sketches, but I think it's fine.

Matt Thorn
06-17-2010, 05:55 AM
You, Sir, are certifiably insane.

....

I just wish I had even a fraction of your particular brand of insanity. :wink:

ElbE121
06-17-2010, 06:12 AM
that is completely and utterly drool worthy, I love the radiator fins! Can not wait to see this saber completed

Skottsaber
06-17-2010, 06:19 AM
Surely SOMEbody has a CF to give to this awesome saber. An MR board would certainly not do this one justice.
Well done, Sloth ;)

slothfurnace
06-17-2010, 07:15 AM
You, Sir, are certifiably insane.

....

I just wish I had even a fraction of your particular brand of insanity. :wink:

Thanks Matt, what's going to drive me insane is having this not turn out how I see it in my head.


that is completely and utterly drool worthy, I love the radiator fins! Can not wait to see this saber completed

Me too! The radiator fins need a little work on the inside still, and perhaps some good weathering and polish, but I think it's turning out well so far.


Surely SOMEbody has a CF to give to this awesome saber. An MR board would certainly not do this one justice.
Well done, Sloth ;)

I do hope to snag a CF V5 for this build. I suppose I will fall in with the rest of the mob hoping to catch one.

ARKM
06-17-2010, 09:24 AM
Awesome, awesome.... and more awesome.

Rhyen Skytracker
06-17-2010, 10:01 AM
That is sooooo Awesome!!! Quick question. What did you use to take out the star screws holding the platters on, or did you just drill them out?

Rafalema
06-17-2010, 10:03 AM
I believe that the 6-point star screws are called "Torx" or something

Rhyen Skytracker
06-17-2010, 10:25 AM
I have a set of them but none that small. I am drilling them out now. hehe

Crystal Chambers
06-17-2010, 10:47 AM
Wow!

With the possibility of building a chassis very soon this is SOOOO inspiring.

I wish I had a bin full of spare parts like that!

sks1138
06-17-2010, 11:09 AM
Wow that's cool! Awesome work!!

Are those balls from the ends of bass guitar strings separating the radiator fins?

slothfurnace
06-17-2010, 11:18 AM
Wow that's cool! Awesome work!!

Are those balls from the ends of bass guitar strings separating the radiator fins?

Yep! That's also what i am using to hold the tongs for the crystal holder in the middle.

Caine Drathul
06-17-2010, 12:35 PM
You, Sir, are certifiably insane.

....

I just wish I had even a fraction of your particular brand of insanity. :wink:

I was JUST thinking that as I was looking at those pics.

Slothfurnace....dude....dude....DUDE....where did you come from? Your skills are pretty much at Mastery level....and you are only two sabers into the hobby?

Oh well...wherever you came from just stick around...we think your work is top notch and can't wait to see more.

Those radiator fins are something else. :cool:

Count Malik
06-17-2010, 01:30 PM
awsome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:p dude thats some mad skillage with the crystal chamber!!!!!

Titoshi
06-17-2010, 03:17 PM
to be completely honest, that chassis is way too pretty to be put into a saber. it would be like using the original typed script of star wars to level out the shelf displaying you collection of m/nm in the box Jar-Jar memorabilia. Like putting a brand new Porsche motor in a Yugo. Fantastic work.

Obi-Ben
06-17-2010, 04:32 PM
Wow, the detail on that is astounding. Well done.

Darth Midian
06-17-2010, 05:00 PM
Oh my God! That chassis is great. Awesome job.

Matt Thorn
06-17-2010, 05:50 PM
Slothfurnace, did you get your Aqua Aura crystal online? It looks great, very natural. I was searching my local "stone shop" (two floors of unusual minerals, crystals, and fossils), for something appropriate, but the Aqua Aura's they had looked too artificial to me. (I ended up buying a colorless, flawed, funky-looking little crystal that called out to me from a crowded shelf like Charlie Brown's sorry little Christmas tree.)

I just did some searching through Japanese online shops for Aqua Auras, but the ones I found were too big, too expensive, or, again, too artificial looking.

Goltar Bias
06-17-2010, 06:54 PM
Man that is realy makeing me jealous with the radiator section. Not to mention you are giveing me all kinds of ideas.

Tyhm
06-17-2010, 10:07 PM
That level of detail cries out for a skit where the saber gets repaired on-stage. :-D

psab keel
06-18-2010, 01:27 AM
You must come from a galaxy far. far away to be able to construct lightsabers like that!

It's out-right astounding!

Psab Keel

slothfurnace
06-18-2010, 05:23 AM
I was JUST thinking that as I was looking at those pics.

Slothfurnace....dude....dude....DUDE....where did you come from? Your skills are pretty much at Mastery level....and you are only two sabers into the hobby?

Oh well...wherever you came from just stick around...we think your work is top notch and can't wait to see more.

Those radiator fins are something else. :cool:


Wow, Caine, I do appreciate that. As to where I come from, I grew up on a ranch an hour southeast of Dallas.

I will be sticking around, I think I have found something that I can really push the envelope with and use a wide assortment of my skillset in this hobby.


awsome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:p dude thats some mad skillage with the crystal chamber!!!!!

Thanks!


to be completely honest, that chassis is way too pretty to be put into a saber. it would be like using the original typed script of star wars to level out the shelf displaying you collection of m/nm in the box Jar-Jar memorabilia. Like putting a brand new Porsche motor in a Yugo. Fantastic work.

Haha, thank you. I am considering ways to display it when it's all done, sort of a multi tiered stand, chassis, saber, blade, etc. all seperate.


Wow, the detail on that is astounding. Well done.

I appreciate it!


Oh my God! That chassis is great. Awesome job.

And thank you too ;)


Slothfurnace, did you get your Aqua Aura crystal online? It looks great, very natural. I was searching my local "stone shop" (two floors of unusual minerals, crystals, and fossils), for something appropriate, but the Aqua Aura's they had looked too artificial to me. (I ended up buying a colorless, flawed, funky-looking little crystal that called out to me from a crowded shelf like Charlie Brown's sorry little Christmas tree.)

I just did some searching through Japanese online shops for Aqua Auras, but the ones I found were too big, too expensive, or, again, too artificial looking.

I got mine on ebay, after an exhaustive search of the right size. There were several about this size on there, I'd do a search.


Man that is realy makeing me jealous with the radiator section. Not to mention you are giveing me all kinds of ideas.

That's what I am here for! Not to make you jealous, but to give ideas ;)


That level of detail cries out for a skit where the saber gets repaired on-stage. :-D

But if it's on stage you can't see the detail! You have to get close up!

I once did an art project that got into a gallery of chalk sculptures. They were so tiny and intricate. At the opening someone asked me why I worked so small. On the spot, I came up with this: That I worked small so that if you didn't take the time or effort to walk over and look close, you'd miss it. That you had to invest somethig in me for you to get something from me.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/ChalkPedestal1.jpg


You must come from a galaxy far. far away to be able to construct lightsabers like that!

It's out-right astounding!

Psab Keel

Nope, a small place called Eustace, TX.

Tyhm
06-18-2010, 06:00 AM
I once did an art project that got into a gallery of chalk sculptures. They were so tiny and intricate. At the opening someone asked me why I worked so small. On the spot, I came up with this: That I worked small so that if you didn't take the time or effort to walk over and look close, you'd miss it. That you had to invest somethig in me for you to get something from me.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/ChalkPedestal1.jpg


Huh. I guess not Everything's bigger in Texas? *badum-bum*

Rhyen Skytracker
06-18-2010, 06:29 AM
That was a bad joke. Sounds like one of mine. LOL

Matt Thorn
06-18-2010, 06:58 AM
Well, that last post of slothfurnace explains a lot. Not only is he a skilled craftsman: he's an accomplished artist, as well. A lot of sabersmith's have the technical skills, and some have the artistic sensibility, but not many have both. And even fewer have both in such quantity.



Therefore, I say we vote him off the island.

http://l.yimg.com/l/tv/us/img/site/96/84/0000039684_20070513085922.jpg

Joke! ;)

Crystal Chambers
06-18-2010, 07:10 AM
It always bothered me that the gallery scene seems to think art needs a message, a reason, or to represent something. Why can't it just look nice?

Too often I find the concepts in art seem like an excuse for lack of craftsmanship or even talent for that matter..lol.

The school I went to was very conceptual and IMO a waste of time.

It sounds like you have a well rounded artist experience going on and you're very lucky.

slothfurnace
06-18-2010, 07:27 AM
Well, that last post of slothfurnace explains a lot. Not only is he a skilled craftsman: he's an accomplished artist, as well. A lot of sabersmith's have the technical skills, and some have the artistic sensibility, but not many have both. And even fewer have both in such quantity.

Therefore, I say we vote him off the island.

Joke! ;)

Eeek, don't vote me off the island, I just got here!

Also, the rest of my artworks and stuff are here at http://www.nonentity.com

Matt Thorn
06-18-2010, 08:16 AM
Also, the rest of my artworks and stuff are here at http://www.nonentity.com
I'm actually relieved to see that you are an experienced professional artist and craftsman. Now we don't have to feel so bad about our own amateurishness. :razz: (People, this gentleman had a major hand in making Doom 4, and made every pixel on the iPhone/iTouch app "Dungeon Defense," which I just now purchased and downloaded. :cool:)

Crystal, oy vey! Don't get me started! You should have seen the chilly reception our new Department of Comic Art got from the other members of the Faculty of Art back in 2000. :rolleyes: "Art" that requires explanation or access to arcane "knowledge" to be understood is lousy art indeed, if you ask me. Abstract Impression ruined everything, and continues to do so more than a century later.

Rhyen Skytracker
06-18-2010, 08:23 AM
I just wish I had 1/4 the talent as you do slothfurnace. I do know that you have really inspired me with your work. I am sure that you have inspired others too. I really look forward to seeing more of your work.

P.S. I vote to keep you on the Island. Can I be in your Alliance? LOL

ejectorhead
06-18-2010, 10:52 AM
Damn Thats nice!

Scars Unseen
06-18-2010, 12:48 PM
Nope, a small place called Eustace, TX.

Small world. I went to school in Eustace for 3 years before my parents got divorced. Ended up graduating in Athens.

slothfurnace
06-18-2010, 02:22 PM
Small world. I went to school in Eustace for 3 years before my parents got divorced. Ended up graduating in Athens.

I graduated from Athens.

I grew up in Eustace, I transferred to Athens in 2nd Grade.

Small world indeed.

Vlad Doon
06-19-2010, 03:11 PM
This is insane. Absolutely wonderfull crystal chambers. But I have an answer. Doesn't it (this crystal illumination) affect the brightness of the main led or not ?
Thumbs up

Jay-gon Jinn
06-21-2010, 08:52 AM
That has to be the most intricate and well thought-out crystal chamber/chassis set-ups I've ever seen! The level of detail is astounding! Very nicely done sir!

slothfurnace
06-23-2010, 05:19 AM
That has to be the most intricate and well thought-out crystal chamber/chassis set-ups I've ever seen! The level of detail is astounding! Very nicely done sir!

Thanks so much!

I am seeing the light at the tunnel on the design of this thing...

I machined a canister for my batteries and soundboard. Then I needed a fore end cap, so I turned down one of the harddrive motor mounts on my lathe, and set it so I could drill and tap for screws to seal it off.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/016.jpg

I like the inset motor coils against the black paint of the motor mount cap. Here, I have threaded for 6-32 stainless cap screws, to hold it together.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/017.jpg

I also took one of the hard drive platter spacers, and meticulously and tediously wrapped it in copper, for my front lens. I figured, a magnetic lens would work as well as an optical one. And I like the contrast of the copper vs the brass and chrome look.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/018.jpg

It fits just fine in the graflex, I left the main support rods long so I can cut them down once my blade adapter arrives, but I have tape about where I estimate the adapter stops. I will fidget with the spacing a bit once I get the adapter, but I think it's really coming together.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/019.jpg

Rafalema
06-23-2010, 05:24 AM
Wow...

Im speechless.

Crystal Chambers
06-23-2010, 05:30 AM
Wow...AWESOME!

The only thing I'm wondering is just how you're going to fit the board, battery and speaker. It doesn't leave much room for sound resonance by the look of it. But also by the look of it you seem to know what you're doing.

slothfurnace
06-23-2010, 05:34 AM
Wow...AWESOME!

The only thing I'm wondering is just how you're going to fit the board, battery and speaker. It doesn't leave much room for sound resonance by the look of it. But also by the look of it you seem to know what you're doing.

Two AA Rechargeable batteries and a speaker and board, or three AAA batteries and speaker and board will fit in that canister...

Also,

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/020.jpg

Sunrider
06-23-2010, 08:17 AM
Saaawweeeeeetttttt. Make the pics clickable for my desktop!:cool:

psab keel
06-23-2010, 10:22 AM
I love following your incredible builds! Also, where did you happen to find capped aluminum tubing? I am in need of some for many of my saber builds.

Thanks, Psab

slothfurnace
06-23-2010, 06:05 PM
I love following your incredible builds! Also, where did you happen to find capped aluminum tubing? I am in need of some for many of my saber builds.

Thanks, Psab

Ah, the tubing wasn't capped. I capped it in the front with that motor mount piece, and the back will be capped by setscrews and my speaker grille.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/021.jpg

This evening, I shortened up my end screws, wired a preliminary LED into the crystal, and set my batteries and a temp switch in the battery canister.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/022.jpg

Another shot, I love the color contrast between the blue of the light and the gold/yellow of the brass.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/023.jpg

All spread out, I may mount it this way. I'll have to build a mount.

Tyhm
06-23-2010, 06:49 PM
Definitely. The case is nice and all, but it's what's inside that counts. ;-D

Almost wanna say we should find a way to make it slide open droid-style for maintenance, maybe modify an umbrella spring...no, that'd go too fast...

And the red of the copper really shines against the brass and blue; it's amazing that you've got hints of all the primary colors and it hasn't gone cartoony.

Matt Thorn
06-23-2010, 06:50 PM
What did I tell you? slothfurnace is certifiably insane. :cool:

This build should have other makers of very fine crystal chambers breaking out in a cold sweat. The bar has been raised.

slothfurnace
06-23-2010, 07:08 PM
Definitely. The case is nice and all, but it's what's inside that counts. ;-D

Almost wanna say we should find a way to make it slide open droid-style for maintenance, maybe modify an umbrella spring...no, that'd go too fast...

And the red of the copper really shines against the brass and blue; it's amazing that you've got hints of all the primary colors and it hasn't gone cartoony.

Well, I also am suprised I was able to find just enough hints of color, but not too much. There's some good texture and color contrasts going on here, I am pretty happy with it so far.


What did I tell you? slothfurnace is certifiably insane. :cool:

This build should have other makers of very fine crystal chambers breaking out in a cold sweat. The bar has been raised.

Now don't go and do that, the masters have nothing to worry about.

I am just glad it came out pretty close to my sketch.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/024.jpg

Matt Thorn
06-23-2010, 07:34 PM
And the red of the copper really shines against the brass and blue; it's amazing that you've got hints of all the primary colors and it hasn't gone cartoony.
It's not so amazing if you've seen his portfolio. Seriously. Everybody who reads this, check out his portfolio.
http://www.nonentity.com/
Like I said, it's a relief to know he's a pro. Takes the pressure off the rest of us. :p

ARKM
06-23-2010, 08:16 PM
Just beautiful. Excelllent work as usual Sloth.

psab keel
06-23-2010, 08:34 PM
DUDE! Even your sketches are fantastic! Yeah I agree with you Matt Thorn, it does make a difference that he's a pro! haha

cannibal869
06-24-2010, 12:59 AM
In a way, I'm kind of glad he's a pro...
and yet in a way, I'm kinda sad too...
probably moreso from tool and design envy ;)

well... that and the fact that I can't really build anything right now due to my back.

Love love love the pics BTW...<sigh>...

slothfurnace
06-25-2010, 08:25 PM
Well, I am waiting for a shipment from the graflex shop and the TCSS both, so while I wait, I decided to work on the actual crystal mount and lighting setup.
Previously, I had a pretty poor light, taped up in there for illumination. That's not the Slothfurnace way, so here we go machining some custom parts...

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/025.jpg

I found some "super bright" rectangular LEDs at radio shack, and whittled them down almost to the diode.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/026.jpg

You can see the small rubber o ring I have tossed on there to keep them together while I test for lighting. It's MUCH brighter than what I had.

However, these pictures do NO justice to how BLUE these LEDs are, they look cyan in the photos, but it's a beautiful deep blue in person.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/027.jpg

So I set aside the first mounting ring I made and machined one that accepts my LEDs and O ring in vertical slots for the LEDs, and a ring inset for the O ring.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/028.jpg

here you can see the way it goes together.

It's MUCH cleaner, cooler, and brighter than what I had before. I will solder the ground leads from the LEDs to the brass, and use the positive leads to form a concentric ring around the whole setup, and solder a solid wire to that, and lead off to the battery pack.

Crystal Chambers
06-25-2010, 10:16 PM
Wow again!...Ok I love/hate you right now and that is definitely a complement....Thanks for making a bar raising contribution. In the spirit of friendly competition it is SOoooO on..lol:D

This saber is totally CF worthy!

Skottsaber
06-26-2010, 02:46 AM
This saber is totally CF worthy!
:rolleyes:




...I've been trying to tell him....

Shadar Al'Niende
06-26-2010, 05:01 AM
....Previously, I had a pretty poor light, taped up in there for illumination. That's not the Slothfurnace way, so here we go machining some custom parts...


You make me chuckle....man, you are amazing. Always good for some eye candy :D

slothfurnace
06-26-2010, 12:20 PM
Wow again!...Ok I love/hate you right now and that is definitely a complement....Thanks for making a bar raising contribution. In the spirit of friendly competition it is SOoooO on..lol:D

This saber is totally CF worthy!

Ok, challenge accepted. BRING IT!


:rolleyes:

...I've been trying to tell him....

Maybe if I make it good enough, I can get one.


You make me chuckle....man, you are amazing. Always good for some eye candy :D

I appreciate it!

And now, today, I soldered on the wire mounts for the prongs, and set it in the chassis, to test fit. The crystal is NICE and snug in there now, both being held in by the prongs and the LEDs.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/029.jpg

Next, I will have to trim a bit out of my radiator for this to fit snug, and maybe shorten the radiator by a section or two.

Vlad Doon
06-29-2010, 02:14 PM
It's a strange feeling. In one hand, it's an obvious state of the art masterpiece and I enjoy every single photo with delight. On the other hand, it opened my eyes on the possibilities for me to achieve something similar = zero. I can't see a single wire..
How can all the electronics and batteries parts fit in ?

Obi-Ben
06-29-2010, 05:33 PM
Zoh...my...god...

The only thing that seems out of place in that saber is the quartz. You know what you need in there to match the brilliance of the rest of your build? A diamond.

And that sketch definitely needs to be framed. Seriously, you could auction that off and any number of us in the community would eagerly bid to have it in our collection. Fund your next build...

Crystal Chambers
06-29-2010, 05:43 PM
Although framing the sketch is a good idea....I think he should keep the sketch and saber together. My $0.02

slothfurnace
06-29-2010, 08:36 PM
Although framing the sketch is a good idea....I think he should keep the sketch and saber together. My $0.02

Hm... perhaps an auction for the set?

Tyhm
06-30-2010, 01:56 AM
If it doesn't net you enough cashmonies to fund your next 3 sabers, there's no justice in the world.

Obi-Ben
06-30-2010, 04:50 PM
Are you saying that you wouldn't want to keep it for yourself?

Matt Thorn
06-30-2010, 05:18 PM
Are you saying that you wouldn't want to keep it for yourself?
I myself would be extremely reluctant to part with it.

I just got my own korbanth BK4 from Jasher, and slothfurnace's ANH Obi-Wan (http://forums.thecustomsabershop.com/showthread.php?t=10564) looms heavily in my mind as I wonder how to approach it. :? I do intend to shamelessly steal his activation switch and transistor kill-key. :cool:

Invisas1979
07-05-2010, 10:55 AM
I'm so impressed SF. I thought your pure build ANH Obi was a great built but this crystal chamber is just brilliant.

You have a very intricate thought process my friend and the skill to pull off your designs.

Can't wait to see more.

Crystal Chambers
07-06-2010, 05:29 AM
anxiously awaiting next update pic.....:D

Seems like July 4th has slowed down the builds a bit. Since I saw your shoutbox message I see you're waiting for parts to come in.

slothfurnace
07-08-2010, 06:26 AM
anxiously awaiting next update pic.....:D

Seems like July 4th has slowed down the builds a bit. Since I saw your shoutbox message I see you're waiting for parts to come in.

Anxiously awaiting my order from the Graflex shop. JEEZ they're slow to ship. I got my TCSS order within a week. This is taking three. :(

Matt Thorn
07-08-2010, 07:16 AM
Anxiously awaiting my order from the Graflex shop. JEEZ they're slow to ship. I got my TCSS order within a week. This is taking three. :(
Oh, yeah. Tim's shipping time is the best. Have you ever ordered from Parks? Be prepared to wait for two months or more, even for a simple thumbscrew. :(

Obi-Ben
07-09-2010, 12:06 PM
Oh, yeah. Tim's shipping time is the best. Have you ever ordered from Parks? Be prepared to wait for two months or more, even for a simple thumbscrew. :(

ARRRRG! Yes!

vargose
07-09-2010, 01:37 PM
Tim's graflex holder is back in stock now.

slothfurnace
07-10-2010, 01:03 PM
Tim's graflex holder is back in stock now.

I'll have to check that out if I can't get this one to work.

And now, some updates!

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/030.jpg

So now I have my battery pack and sounboard installed, I need to pass the wires almost from the back of the chassis to the front.

Mostly this is easily done, but where I have my radiator and crystal section, I'd rather not have exposed wiring, so I went to work today making a brass wire conduit to replace one of my threaded rods.


http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/031.jpg

I drilled out enough space to fit 7 or 8 wires, and threaded the end. I'll drill and tap the harddrive retainer plate to accept this 1/4 x 20 threading.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/032.jpg

Here I go peeling back my brass rod. I'll want something art deco as a style, as the Graflex comes from the 30's I think that would be appropriate.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/033.jpg

And my conduit has shape! I had to drill it out from the other side, since my drill bit isn't long enough to go all the way through it. I left enough material to shorten and shape to fit at the top of my conduit.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/034.jpg

Here, I have drilled the harddrive platter retainer and am tapping it for 1/4 x 20 threads to accept my conduit.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/035.jpg

Once all set in place, my wires will run from my soundboard through these motor stators into my conduit, up through that into the blade socket.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/036.jpg

Before, I just had a small screw and nut holding these together. Now I must drill out and tap for another hollow brass screw I'll need to make so my wires have a place to run.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/037.jpg

And here's my hollow threaded brass rod that ties the two stators together.

More soon, as I begin the slow task of bringing this all together.

Shadar Al'Niende
07-10-2010, 02:14 PM
*shakes head*


You just continue to amaze don't you man? :D

*begs* please keep going? :cool:

slothfurnace
07-10-2010, 02:28 PM
*shakes head*


You just continue to amaze don't you man? :D

*begs* please keep going? :cool:

Ok... :)

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/038.jpg

Et Kin Evenstar
07-10-2010, 02:34 PM
Is it wrong that I am whistiling at these pics like I normally would when I look at a super ***y, hot woman?

Matt Thorn
07-10-2010, 06:20 PM
Is it wrong that I am whistiling at these pics like I normally would when I look at a super ***y, hot woman?
Yes, it is wrong.

But under the circumstances, forgivable. :p

Et Kin Evenstar
07-10-2010, 06:43 PM
Hehe....and FWIW the forum censored my use of the word S E X Y. I could've said "Foxy" but this isn't the 70s. ;-)

Jedi-Loreen
07-11-2010, 12:22 AM
That's not so hard to figure out. ;)

Matt Thorn
07-11-2010, 05:07 AM
"A lonely sailor's best friend is his ***tant."

"I hail from Sus***."

Just testing. Sorry. Quite juvenile of me. ;)

Skottsaber
07-11-2010, 05:09 AM
tisk tisk tisk...

*shakes head*

slothfurnace
07-11-2010, 01:32 PM
So I've had a few hours today to devote to this... And my approach today was to fix something about my design that's been bugging me.


You may have noted from previous posts that I made a wire conduit for passing wires across the crystal chamber. I do like my conduit. It makes me not like the random bits of brass tubing that I have on the other two posts underneath the radiator.

So, as the Slothfurnace Way dictates, we must make custom parts!


http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/039.jpg

This is a section of brass cut down to match the wire condut base. Notice I have one section, but two pieces. I do this so my diameters match across the two pieces, then I will cut it in the middle and have two matching pieces. It's easier to do this than to start fresh twice.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/040.jpg

Here you see the finished pieces that match the conduit. I don't thread these on the outside, but I do thread them 6-32 on the inside to act as nuts so I can tighten the harddrive platter retainer down, and get rid of the 6-32 nut between the brass tubing and radiator as seen in the previous photos.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/041.jpg

Now I need to turn 16 brass 6-32 nuts down to cylinders. You'll see why in a minute, but it's to further remove unsightly non-custom parts from the chassis.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/042.jpg

These are almost the right diameter, don't think I need to shave them down any further.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/043.jpg

And this is why I need them! I will thread them in between the plates of my radiator. I needed to do this for a couple reasons. Mainly to make more rigid my radiator, as it was a bit floppy when installed because the way it went together meant I couldn't tighten it down. The other reason is, again, to hide the unsightly threaded rod.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/044.jpg

MUCH better, I'd say. my three support posts now match aesthetically, and are more functional to tighten things down so nothing moves.

I will polish up a few pieces and re-assemble the radiator. Yes, it will be much more tedious this way, but it's worth it. Also, the with of the brass cylinders is just a hair thinner than the width of the brass guitar string bead ends, so I may leave those out, but I haven't decided.

Matt Thorn
07-12-2010, 03:21 AM
......
..........
..............
..................

:shock:

It's gotten to the point where praising this chassis is sort of embarrassing. Like seeing Michelangelo's La Pietà (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piet%C3%A0_%28Michelangelo%29) in person in Saint Peter's Basilica and saying, "Awesome! Great sculpture, dude!"
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/1f/Michelangelo%27s_Pieta_5450_cropncleaned_edit.jpg/572px-Michelangelo%27s_Pieta_5450_cropncleaned_edit.jpg (http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/1f/Michelangelo%27s_Pieta_5450_cropncleaned_edit.jpg)

And so I feebly resort to testing the forum's censoring software again, this time with a quote from today's New York Times:

Japan’s governing Democratic Party suffered a stinging setback in midterm elections on Sunday that showed growing voter disappointment with the party’s apparent inability to deliver on promises to revamp the country’s sclerotic postwar order.Hmm. It doesn't like "***tant" or "Sus***," but it let "sclerotic" slide. :|

Crystal Chambers
07-12-2010, 05:58 AM
Nice work hiding the earthly hardware. Before you know it you'll have a whole new saber but I'm sure it'll be well worth it.


lol...Matt you're too funny. It's tempting to play along but I'm going to behave for once.

Jedi-Loreen
07-12-2010, 10:30 AM
I don't remember what I said the first time I saw La Pietà. It was back in 1982. :cool:

cannibal869
07-12-2010, 01:26 PM
I find this thread incredibly beautiful, inspiring, and yet depressing at the same time... <sigh>...

Still, keep the pics coming man!

Jedi-Loreen
07-12-2010, 01:58 PM
I think a lot of us feel the same way.

xl97
07-12-2010, 06:32 PM
I 'really' dig the 'cylinders' from the brass nuts!.. Im so stealing that to work on my set-up..

all you work is top notch. very insipring... (puts my cores/chassis to shame!) LOL

Matt Thorn
07-12-2010, 06:51 PM
slothfurnace, would you mind sharing some info about and photos of your equipment (lathe, milling machine, etc.)? Is there any CNC involved? Skill and knowledge aside, I'm not sure my own mini-lathe is capable of something like threading the inside of a rod that way. :|

FenderBender
07-13-2010, 05:14 AM
Incredible work man. Im also seething with jealousy as I had a radiator like design planned for a saber too. You beat me to it:D Ah well, it is quite enjoyable to watch this develope.

slothfurnace
07-13-2010, 06:31 AM
slothfurnace, would you mind sharing some info about and photos of your equipment (lathe, milling machine, etc.)? Is there any CNC involved? Skill and knowledge aside, I'm not sure my own mini-lathe is capable of something like threading the inside of a rod that way. :|

I'll take some shots of my work area tonight. But the only special tool I have is the lathe. Everything else is hand tools, a drill press, sandpaper, a decent tap & die set, etc.

Threading the inside of those tubes and the outside of the conduit is just done with my tap and die set.


Incredible work man. Im also seething with jealousy as I had a radiator like design planned for a saber too. You beat me to it:D Ah well, it is quite enjoyable to watch this develope.

Thanks Fender! Today's Tuesday, and Tuesday & Wednesday nights I have all evening to work, so hopefully I'll progress a little further down the line on this. But it's still taking so long I feel I haven't beat anyone to anything yet. I appreciate your comments though.

slothfurnace
07-13-2010, 07:50 PM
Well, tonight I thought I'd tackle the speaker chamber, and found some Delrin to make the speaker retainer rings out of. Normally I would have plenty of pics of the "making of," but my camera battery was dying so I only have a few of the "after making"

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/045.jpg

You see here the temp speaker, and a speaker grille I found out of an old radar detector.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/046.jpg

The delrin rings kind of sandwich the speaker and the grille together, and the outer shell of aluminum holds everything snug. I'll eventually put a set screw in the rear ring to keep it all tight.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/047.jpg

The smaller diameter lip of the aluminum cap also secures my battery pack inside the battery can.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/048.jpg

I might need to shave a little off for length though, I need to make up about a quarter of an inch someplace so it all fits in when collapsed.

jin starkiller
07-13-2010, 07:59 PM
very cool .....looks like a awsome job ...can't wait to see the finished product

Tyhm
07-13-2010, 08:52 PM
A terrestrial speaker grille? Kudos on finding one that fits snugly, but it's always kinda pulled me out of it to have a masterfully handmade lightsaber with a speaker grille...but what do I know, I don't even smith...

Matt Thorn
07-13-2010, 09:11 PM
A terrestrial speaker grille? Kudos on finding one that fits snugly, but it's always kinda pulled me out of it to have a masterfully handmade lightsaber with a speaker grille...but what do I know, I don't even smith...
Um...so what is he supposed to do? It's black, it doesn't scream "speaker grille!", and, most importantly, the grille won't be visible when the hilt is together, or even when it's in "showing off the insane chassis" mode. :confused:

Noyl Wendor
07-13-2010, 09:11 PM
Where did you find the "canister" for the battery/SB? Was that something that you did on your lathe?
I like the idea of having a compartment for the battery/speaker/SB.
That is a very nice set up, very pro. Very cool. Can't wait to see the FP.

Tyhm
07-13-2010, 09:55 PM
Um...so what is he supposed to do? It's black, it doesn't scream "speaker grille!", and, most importantly, the grille won't be visible when the hilt is together, or even when it's in "showing off the insane chassis" mode. :confused:

I don't know; I'm not trying to criticize the build in general, just pointing out the one bit. It's slothfurnace though, I'm sure it'll get well buried behind yet more ridiculous awesome.

Also, I know little enough about graflex' that I did not realize it wouldn't be visible ever, so, there I go showing my ignorance again. I've seen too many otherwise awesome builds spoiled by having the hilt end in a really obvious speaker, so I was starting to get disappointed.

slothfurnace
07-14-2010, 06:24 AM
Where did you find the "canister" for the battery/SB? Was that something that you did on your lathe?
I like the idea of having a compartment for the battery/speaker/SB.
That is a very nice set up, very pro. Very cool. Can't wait to see the FP.

The canister was made out of some aluminum tubing, and capped with a harddrive motor mount that I machined down to fit.

4 AAA rechargeable batteries and my soundboard barely fit. Such that I had to drill that little hole visible in one of the pics above for the vertical capacitor to poke through.

xl97
07-14-2010, 04:16 PM
sorry to beat a dead horse here..

but care to share how you turned down those brass nuts?

seems you have them on a threaded rod.. all tightened up and butted up to each other.. all the way up tot he chuck jaws.. (yes?)

on the other side though.. Im a bit stump'd.. I dont see a center in your tail stock or anything.. but more so a MT2/3 drill chuck in your TS?

what is it 'holding/clamping' on to though?

is that a sleeve over the treaded rod? so it spins freely inside?


Thanks

Matt Thorn
07-14-2010, 05:36 PM
on the other side though.. Im a bit stump'd.. I dont see a center in your tail stock or anything.. but more so a MT2/3 drill chuck in your TS?

what is it 'holding/clamping' on to though?

is that a sleeve over the treaded rod? so it spins freely inside?
It's too bad slothfurnace didn't make a video of the whole build. I think there are plenty of sabersmiths out there, myself included, who would gladly pay for an annotated DVD. :cool: Of course, then we would see a minor boom in second- and third-rate knock-offs that would just make slothfurnace's work look all the better by contrast. ;)

I'm still working with the default setup that came with my lathe, and badly need to get some add-ons. :neutral:

Obi-Ben
07-14-2010, 07:06 PM
Hey Sloth--with all those funky internal components, about how heavy is this hilt going to be? You've given me some neat ideas of how to counterbalance my blades.

cardcollector
07-14-2010, 07:29 PM
I dunno about you guys, but this makes me want to go take a machining course!

There is so much detail put into this saber I can't even come up it words to praise it.:shock:


Wait. I got it.
superawefusilious increperfecdetailition...



:cool:

xl97
07-14-2010, 11:13 PM
Im just curious as to how he is securing the TS end in the 'drill chuck'

it has to 'spin' somehow...no?

anyways..

I just thought it was a nice trick/tip to pick up..

Noyl Wendor
07-15-2010, 01:21 AM
The canister was made out of some aluminum tubing, and capped with a harddrive motor mount that I machined down to fit.

4 AAA rechargeable batteries and my soundboard barely fit. Such that I had to drill that little hole visible in one of the pics above for the vertical capacitor to poke through.

What diamiter was the aluminum tubing? I've been playing around with the idea of working on something like what you have going. I managed to find some 1 1/4 copper tubing that fits nice and snug in the bottom section of the graflex.
BTW slothfurnace....I blame you :). I went back and broke down my Graflex to find a way to improve the chassis, took out the sound, cutting, sanding, drill/tapping, lots of stuff I can do better. Your fault :). Well at least your fault for inspiring some new ideas. ;)

Shadar Al'Niende
07-15-2010, 05:38 AM
There is so much detail put into this saber I can't even come up it words to praise it.:shock:


Wait. I got it.
superawefusilious increperfecdetailition...



:cool:

:shock: That's awesome ;)


I tried to pronounce that... i failed....

slothfurnace
07-15-2010, 05:43 AM
Im just curious as to how he is securing the TS end in the 'drill chuck'

it has to 'spin' somehow...no?

anyways..

I just thought it was a nice trick/tip to pick up..

Yes, I used the other chuck to hold a piece that i can spin the other end of the threaded rod against.

A minor update with a quick sketch!
http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/049.jpg

This is how I hope it turns out, a quick sketch to see if I like it before I head towards the finish line...

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/050.jpg

Last night, I decided to work on my switch, the obvious place to put it is in the red button, but how? The switch the graflex shop sent that "supposedly" fits under the red button is way too thick to fit there... what to do?

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/051.jpg

Ah, I see the mailman has brought me my Pololu latching switch pcb. hello TINY!

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/052.jpg

After a bit of modification to the original button, it fits great, works great, and I am very pleased with the tactile feel of the snap of the switch under the red button.

I did have to VERY CAREFULLY remove the little dome tab under the red button for the Polulu to fit, but once I did, everything fits like it is supposed to.

xl97
07-15-2010, 05:45 AM
awesome.. I thought thats how you did it...but never doing it myself.. I had to ask..

I still thinks its a great tip/trick (yoink)..

Thanks for the reply..

slothfurnace
07-17-2010, 06:15 AM
Well folks, after about a week of trying to think of how to interface my switch and detachable blade to the rest of the chassis, I think I have it. Last night I stopped the mental gymnastics and actually started making the interface point a reality.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/053.jpg

Here we have my blade adapter, modified with a big notch and filed down in the top channel to be as flat as I can make it. Also visible is my aluminum plug that inserts into the adapter, and outer collar that fits the harddrive platter retainer from the chassis, and also perfectly fits the inside diameter of the graflex housing.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/054.jpg

The plug precisely fits snug into the blade adapter. This is where the end of the chassis will plug into the blade adapter and through this, on to the blade and plug.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/055.jpg

Why the notch? Well, My Pololu switch, while awesome, does need connection back to the rear of the chassis, and having a quick disconnect wire that I plug in and stuff into the thing isn't the slothfurnace way.

So, we make custom parts, and create a multifunctional feature. This notch both serves to index the angle of my chassis to the saber itself, therefore keeping things in line, and to allow me to use a 3 contact plug (mounted in the chassis front piece) to connect the Pololu to the back of the saber.

The reason for the long wires, is so that I can push the Pololu out to the end of the channel and drop it down so it all fits when I insert it into the graflex top end. The height of the Pololu wouldn't let me mount it in the channel, I have to set it out and down, slide it all in, then once the Pololu reaches the switch hole, I raise it up, and slide the adapter on in under the switch. The wires are coiled that way so that they compress into the adapter channel when the switch board gets closer to the perf board. It BARELY fits. nice and snug.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/056.jpg

This was a scrap piece of perf board and a small screw I had in the parts bin. The flatness of the perf board across the top of the adapter channel keeps the plug stationariy up and down, and the notch keeps it stable left and right. I'll notch out on my aluminum end piece to accept the plug, and when it all fits together, it should be nice and snug.

Next up, the actual blade and the non blade light up insert interface. I have the parts, but no pics yet. I need to test it first.

Ari-Jaq Xulden
07-17-2010, 06:30 AM
So, we make custom parts, and create a multifunctional feature.
I just knew it was that mouse under your hat pulling all the strings.

slothfurnace
07-21-2010, 06:32 AM
Well, it's been a while since I have posted, but here's some updates.

Last week I spent a ton of time on the plug that goes into the blade adapter and interfaces with the detachable blade. More on that later, but here's a few pics.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/057.jpg

When the blade is not in the saber, I have a 1" to 3/4" blade stepdown adapter as my plug. Inside that I have soldered 6 Mako V3 LEDs to make the ring illuminate when it's turned on. Not quite finished with that part yet though.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/058.jpg

Here I have set up my radius cutter to do the radius for the collector on the inside of the chassis, positioned above the crystal.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/059.jpg

Here you see my radiused inner surface, the hole will be for another Mako V3 LED.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/060.jpg

Here I have knurled a section, radiused the outer edge, and begun trimming down the back of the piece so I can part it off and thread it. This will hold the top harddrive platter retainer plate to the machined adapter plug. That might not make sense now, but once I get pics made of that piece it will all be clear.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/061.jpg

Here's the custom bolt finished, threaded for 3/8, hollowed for the LED, and cut down so it fits the inner hole of my harddrive platter retainer plate.

Invisas1979
07-21-2010, 12:22 PM
This is the most brilliant build thread ever, I'm rapt every time I look at it.

I can't wait for the next update, keep em coming SF.

cannibal869
07-21-2010, 01:55 PM
Agreed - I do have to say that one of the reasons this thread is so full of win is that the pics are just ungodly crisp and detailed. I really really love the super macro mode of your camera Slothfurnace!

slothfurnace
07-22-2010, 05:39 AM
Agreed - I do have to say that one of the reasons this thread is so full of win is that the pics are just ungodly crisp and detailed. I really really love the super macro mode of your camera Slothfurnace!

Hey I appreciate that!


Here's a couple pics on a major update,

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/062.jpg

This was the result of some very tedious headscratching. The joining of the chassis to the actual adapter plug went through heavy revision until I finally found a way to do it with the space I had left that also let the unit be strong.

I decided to take the very heavy risk of drilling and tapping six 2-56 holes through the retainer plate into my plug housing, then using scrap harddrive screws to mount the retainer plate to the plug. I had no room to use the custom LED bolt collector I had machined, so this is how it has to be.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/063.jpg

And here I am testing my wiring harness for fit and finish, all the wires fit, and I also took the last four radiator plates, and for three of them drilled a hole that will accept the shock sensor, and the very last one, a hole that fits the wires for the shock sensor. I like having the shock sensor embedded here, as it adds a bit of interest, and gets it away from cramped spaces while also keeping it rigid.

The switch wires run through holes in the radiator as well, the length of the chassis.

Skottsaber
07-23-2010, 03:20 PM
Now all you need to do is fit some swiss army knife attachments on the other radiator plates...


Seriously though.. awesome *sighs at cliche*

Tyhm
07-23-2010, 06:17 PM
Now all you need to do is fit some swiss army knife attachments on the other radiator plates...


Seriously though.. awesome *sighs at cliche*

Swiss Army Lightsaber? Totally doing it now. Red enamel hilt and all. ;-D

SF, you never cease to amaze...even the soldering is beautiful.

Jedi-Loreen
07-23-2010, 09:53 PM
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b8/JediLoreen/sitharmy.jpg

Hee hee

Invisas1979
07-24-2010, 08:42 AM
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b8/JediLoreen/sitharmy.jpg

Hee hee

Ha ha ha. Good one

slothfurnace
07-28-2010, 08:07 PM
http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/064.jpg

Well, tonight I had to solve a lingering problem with my crystal mount.

The LED matrix had a kind of sloppy circular positive lead ring. In addition to being sloppy, it tended to ground out against my support pillars after I added the thicker machined brass trim pieces.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/065.jpg

To solve it, I tossed the Mark I LED matrix in favor of the Mark II. A triangular hot lead, with inverted LEDs, passing the hot lead under the mount, against the crystal itself to add stability to the crystal.

This also is a tighter, closer in setup, and after noodling with how exactly to do it, I finally just bent and soldered everything with the crystal installed, thereby making sure it all fit. I inverted the LEDs so I could pass the ground Leads up into the mount, grounding against the body of the mount, and hiding them as well.

Matt Thorn
07-28-2010, 08:45 PM
Why do I have a feeling slothfurnace is far from done with this saber? Take your time, Sir. This is like one of those novels you really don't want to end.

slothfurnace
07-28-2010, 09:20 PM
Why do I have a feeling slothfurnace is far from done with this saber? Take your time, Sir. This is like one of those novels you really don't want to end.

Done... that's a novel concept...

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/066.jpg


http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/067.jpg

Matt Thorn
07-28-2010, 09:38 PM
Beautiful. Well, like Leonardo said, art is never finished, only abandoned.

slothfurnace
07-29-2010, 09:43 PM
http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/069.jpg

Tonight I spent ironing out a few things with wiring, getting ready for the final assembly. Hopefully I will only have to tear it down and rebuild it all a few more times.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/068.jpg

I also spent some time on my blade adapter plug, for when the saber has no blade installed.. These pieces are a 1 inch to 3/4 blade diameter reducer, sloped to fit the machined insert, which holds the vintage bulb contact point from the Graflex. It is suspended by the original spring, which sits atop the six Mako V3 LEDs. I connect everything through the Graflex Blade adapter via an 8 pin DIN plug.


http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/070.jpg

And a test lighting of the lit adapter plug. You'll notice the large gaping hole in the bottom of the graflex blade adapter. I hollowed this out to accept the original glass eye, as I was unsatisfied with the glass eye thumbscrews available. Plus it lets me put a section of Anode mesh from a broken nixie tube behind the glass and let the blue light come through.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/071.jpg

The original glass eye mount also serves as a large thumbscrew to tighten against the blade plug or blade when it's installed, to keep it all nice and snug.

I do notice I have one more issue with my crystal mount, it's not coming on with the rest of the saber, due to a grounding issue. It's not a short, but it was an oversight on my part about how the board works. Right now I have t he crystal LEDs grounding through the whole saber. Which works when it's out of the body, but when it's all installed, it doesn't work right with the recharge port, etc. that does actually ground back to the battery pack.

So one more teardown to fix that, and we're looking at home stretch, folks.

Matt Thorn
07-29-2010, 09:57 PM
Somebody call the funny farm. slothfurnace has completely lost his mind.

Just don't make the call until he's finished this saber.

The blade plug and the Anode mesh...You're killing me here, slothfurnace. :shock:

slothfurnace
07-29-2010, 10:24 PM
Somebody call the funny farm. slothfurnace has completely lost his mind.

Just don't make the call until he's finished this saber.

The blade plug and the Anode mesh...You're killing me here, slothfurnace. :shock:

Thank you so much for all your kind words, Matt. It's encouragement like that that cheers me on to the finish line on this project.

I still have a ways left to go, but the hurdles are getting shorter. I also still have a few tricks up my sleeve for some additional unique features so stay tuned. I am shooting for epic here. I just hope I can get made what's been rattling around in my head for the past couple months.

Matt Thorn
07-29-2010, 10:45 PM
"shooting for epic"!?

<whisper>
Folks, don't tell him he already passed "epic" by several lightyears six or seven pages back; let's see how far we can get him to go.
</whisper>

Rhyen Skytracker
07-30-2010, 04:20 AM
That is so Awesome!!! You are killing us, how are we supposed to make great sabers when you raise the bar so high? LOL Great job and keep up the great work.

Crystal Chambers
07-30-2010, 05:10 AM
I say bring it! The more challenges the merrier. Just make sure you finish it sometime soon ...just in case.;)
Hopefully you can get it done before C5 to show some members in person.

Sunrider
07-30-2010, 08:13 AM
That last pic is just Awesome with the micro honeycomb. :cool:

psab keel
07-30-2010, 09:33 AM
If only we all had the resources and capabilities that you had slothfurnace.....

This is going to be one hell of a lightsaber!

slothfurnace
07-30-2010, 08:21 PM
If only we all had the resources and capabilities that you had slothfurnace.....

This is going to be one hell of a lightsaber!

Here's hopin!

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/072.jpg



ROCK! First try, the charging circuit is happy, all my wiring fits, the new grounding scheme works with the crystal mount, and so far no smoke.



http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/073.jpg



It's getting there!

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/074.jpg

Grips, D ring, main blade left to go.

slothfurnace
07-31-2010, 06:01 AM
Here's some better pics in the morning light...
http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/075.jpg

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/076.jpg

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/077.jpg

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/078.jpg

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/079.jpg

Matt Thorn
07-31-2010, 07:27 AM
With apologies and all due respect to all the talented and skilled sabersmiths who have ever made beautiful Graflex sabers, I can say with certainty that this is the most gorgeous Graflex conversion I have ever seen, hands down. Literally any way you look at it, it is an organically complete and perfect whole, and functional, to boot. slothfurnace has perfectly nailed the Art Deco aesthetic he was aiming for, but the saber reminds me of my trip a few years ago to the Bauhaus Dessau (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bauhaus), where every single object is designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

It would be silly to try to copy slothfurnace's Graflex, but this whole thread is a treasure trove of inspiration that can be applied to a huge array of projects. I vote that this thread be stickied.

xl97
07-31-2010, 08:09 AM
I agree a great job!... one of the best I have seen too.

I doubt there will be any ' exact copies'.. but many of the basic 'ideas/effects' have been done before. but his style/flair on those techniques is what completes everything IMHO..

good job...was a great thread to follow.

eastern57
07-31-2010, 04:14 PM
Agreed with what's already been stated. 'Cept the "you're crazy" parts (oh matty matty) :D :D

Since you seem to have both the spare parts and capability, might I suggest something? How about a display shell. A display-while-it's-open mode is cool, but it's been done by everyone who does graflexes... How about a display-while-it's-closed mode. I.e. Carve out some of that graflex upper half (and maybe some of the clamp) so that it reveals all that inside awesomeness. mayhaps some 1.5" polyC tube stock to fill in the cut-out space (and keep dust out).

In my head I'm seeing a quase visual dictionary display... but instead of cross-sections, it's a panoramic peep-hole window. :D

Skottsaber
08-01-2010, 12:40 AM
So... probably the most openable saber in the history of sabers.... and you want to create a window?

I guess its because I don't have a graflex.

Matt Thorn
08-01-2010, 04:16 AM
Eastern, there is a long and noble tradition of mediocre people like me assuaging our egos by labeling geniuses as "crazy." Surely you wouldn't deny me such modest solace? :p

I would hate to see this particular hilt made into a display piece of the kind you described, but it might be something slothfurnace could consider for a future project.

I have been struggling with a saber that uses a korbanth Luke ROTJ hilt, but replaces the Graflex clamp with a "hero" style control box (complete with working triangular LEDs), and which also--heaven help me--can be switched between 15 different colors with a rotary switch hidden under the control box card. I have barely succeeded in cramming it all into the teeny, tiny interior in the conventional way, but slothfurnace's work both on this hilt and his Obi-Wan ANH has inspired me to try to make everything fit more efficiently (and more stably) by using "plug-and-play".

DJMoonbass
08-01-2010, 12:37 PM
woah woah woah......

wait.


WHAT?

how have i missed this? i saw the begining.. but didnt think it would turn into this...


WHAT?

lets just say youre giving yoda at FX a VERY GOOD RUN for his money my friend.

i am beyond words... this is the most beautiful work of art in a saber i have ever seen. i dont think i have seen more craftsmanship and engineering go into a saber.

and thank you very much for the long tutorial. im sure you have given countless sabersmiths inspiration. as you have done me. dont be surprised if you see alot of sabers pop up in the future with "slothfurnace inspired chassis system" in the titles.

this saber will be remembered.

slothfurnace
08-02-2010, 06:32 AM
woah woah woah......

wait.


WHAT?

how have i missed this? i saw the begining.. but didnt think it would turn into this...


WHAT?

lets just say youre giving yoda at FX a VERY GOOD RUN for his money my friend.

i am beyond words... this is the most beautiful work of art in a saber i have ever seen. i dont think i have seen more craftsmanship and engineering go into a saber.

and thank you very much for the long tutorial. im sure you have given countless sabersmiths inspiration. as you have done me. dont be surprised if you see alot of sabers pop up in the future with "slothfurnace inspired chassis system" in the titles.

this saber will be remembered.

Wow, DJ, Matt, everyone, you have really humbled me by your kind words. I am so glad you all have enjoyed following this thread, and I hope when finished it serves as inspiration to others. Matt, thanks for the vote to sticky, I'd be honored. I am in the home stretch to finish it by C5, depending on when my grips get in.

As always I plan to get some work done Tues. and Wed. night, and post pics as I go. She's almost done!

Crystal Chambers
08-02-2010, 07:38 AM
Well you're definitely showing what can be done with a graflex. Personally I'd avoid doing anything similar because now it's been done. Now I want to do a graflex even more. I don't think it's a fair comparison to Yoda, because I've never seen him disguise the innards. Goodman maybe?

Now these pics are great. High res, nice lighting and composition but I really think you need to make a video when it's complete.

Skottsaber
08-02-2010, 07:51 AM
woah woah woah......

wait.


WHAT?

etc. etc. etc.


^Slothfurnacegasm

Don't worry DJ... it happens to all of us ;)

Invisas1979
08-02-2010, 01:21 PM
woah woah woah......

wait.


WHAT?

how have i missed this? i saw the begining.. but didnt think it would turn into this...


WHAT?

lets just say youre giving yoda at FX a VERY GOOD RUN for his money my friend.

.

Not sure how you did but with all due respect to Yoda this isn't just a good run as far as I've seen, this is the next step up.

DJMoonbass
08-02-2010, 06:47 PM
Well to be honest I didn't want to say who's was better. I really can't decide. It's just so epic. just trying to be respectfull here. :)

xl97
08-02-2010, 07:00 PM
I think they both have their place..

one is also for 'retail' (so to speak) (something to keep in mind of course..as it does often dictate build/project approach & materials...etc)

slothfurnace
08-02-2010, 07:32 PM
Hey guys, I would never try and make a run for Master Yoda, I am just trying to do something I like, for me.

I don't know if comparisons are needed.

But now we come to one of the final parts, and one more trick up my sleeve.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/080.jpg

I had to just go ahead and decide to make the D ring clamp. I couldn't find any that worked, and harder still to find the right metal, then lo and behold on the floor of my garage was some thin aluminum. I cut a section out and bent it around this rod that had the same diameter of my D ring, and placed it in the vice so I could round it over to the front, and crimp it under the roll.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/081.jpg

Here I have crimped it, and sanded on it a bit, and made sure the clamp has the amount of play in it I want for the D ring.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/082.jpg

A little more metal removed and sanded to fit the shape of the inner bevel of the graflex endcap.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/083.jpg

And here is the final contour and hole drilled for my stainless cap hex screw. This screw I had to shorten quite a bit so that when it's all mounted, my chassis still slides all the way to the back of the Graflex end.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/084.jpg

After CAREFULLY drilling and tapping the Graflex endplate, this is it all put together. It's not 100% perfect, but I am very close, and satisfied for now. I am in a bit of a rush to finish this for Celebration V, and I hope to have it with me when I go.

Oh, that trick I had up my sleeve?






http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/085.jpg

I drilled out the cap screw.

There's just enough purchase left for the hex wrench, and now this is my sound port. Without it, my sound is half as loud. I wanted to have a sound port back here, but I didn't want to impact the visual authenticity of the saber.

ecko
08-02-2010, 08:17 PM
I'm not sure if you have heard, but I have been giving this build a standing ovation since post #1. (Although I don't want you to stop, my hands are getting sore)

Seriously this is truly and inspiration, so much that I added a replica graflex to my last order. If I can achieve even 1% of your outstanding work, I will count myself lucky.

cannibal869
08-02-2010, 08:59 PM
Oh, that trick I had up my sleeve?

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/085.jpg

I drilled out the cap screw.

There's just enough purchase left for the hex wrench, and now this is my sound port. Without it, my sound is half as loud. I wanted to have a sound port back here, but I didn't want to impact the visual authenticity of the saber.

Epic sweetness!! Good stealth job on that one!

jin starkiller
08-02-2010, 09:06 PM
very sweet ....sad that all finished ..well guess the rest of us will have to be inspired to do better with our crystal chambers in the future:)

DJMoonbass
08-02-2010, 09:47 PM
i vote as well for a sticky. this is going to help me BIG time in making my own chassis. with my own style of course but using slothfurnaces technique.

so thanks again man. this is the best WIP progress for chassis construction.

Caine Drathul
08-02-2010, 11:48 PM
<sigh>

Sloth, you continue to amaze me.

Folks, if you have never seen Yoda's work in person, it makes no sense whatsoever to compare this work to his...these are two different styles and I feel that we ought to recognize them as such...both are amazing and are at a whole different level of saber building mastery.

Matt Thorn
08-03-2010, 12:14 AM
Sorry if I made it sound like I was inviting comparisons. I was speaking purely subjective aesthetics. Heck, I would give my left arm to have half of Yoda's talent and skill. As xl97 noted, a Yoda Graflex is something one can actually purchase, whereas, as slothfurnace pointed out, this is a special project he did entirely for himself. Regardless of his intentions, though, I feel like I'm getting a little present for myself every time slothfurnace adds a new photo to this thread. :D

Crystal Chambers
08-03-2010, 05:04 AM
That hole in the screw is quite impressive. Maybe it's because of the type of sound board but I've seen a few graflex with no holes that were loud. I'm sure they had CFs in them.....like this one should for sure. I'm sure the board you have is ok, and maybe now that you've got this under your belt, a CF saber for you would be even more ambitious.

Matt Thorn
08-03-2010, 06:01 AM
Argh!! We've been over the CF issue at least three times on this thread, I think. This saber has a scrolling LED-ladder blade. Until the CF supports LED-ladders, a CF would in some ways be a downgrade for this saber. Now, if the next CF does support LED-ladders, well, that's a different story.

I was just pondering how to drill a hole in a set screw last week. I suppose if I was half as resourceful as slothfurnace, I could do it with the equipment I have. Someday.

Crystal Chambers
08-03-2010, 06:14 AM
Oh yeah...I forget because I don't do strings. Slothfurnace just told me that in shoutbox. I'm not sure that would be a downgrade. I think there's some advantages to lux style LEDs which is why they seem to be more popular.

Attach that screw straight inline with drill and use a real small bit. It's just not something I would have considered on such a small screw. You're supposed to drill holes for screws, not in screws...lol

Invisas1979
08-03-2010, 06:30 AM
<sigh>

Sloth, you continue to amaze me.

Folks, if you have never seen Yoda's work in person, it makes no sense whatsoever to compare this work to his...these are two different styles and I feel that we ought to recognize them as such...both are amazing and are at a whole different level of saber building mastery.


I think they both have their place..

one is also for 'retail' (so to speak) (something to keep in mind of course..as it does often dictate build/project approach & materials...etc)

I'm not being disrespectful and I understand the point about one being a production item but for me a comparison between two Crystal Chambers is a comparrison. Just like a comparrison And I don't think that they are that dissimilar, SF has a lot of nods to Yodas work, only taken to a more personal level.

Either way, I also say sticky this thread as it'l help people to plan in make some great Crystal Chambers.

slothfurnace
08-03-2010, 06:48 AM
Oh yeah...I forget because I don't do strings. Slothfurnace just told me that in shoutbox. I'm not sure that would be a downgrade. I think there's some advantages to lux style LEDs which is why they seem to be more popular.

Attach that screw straight inline with drill and use a real small bit. It's just not something I would have considered on such a small screw. You're supposed to drill holes for screws, not in screws...lol

Actually, I chucked the screw up in the lathe and used my tailstock chuck to drill through it with a 1/8 bit.

It leaves just enough "hex" left to get hold of with the hex wrench.

However, the harder part was shortening the screw. I had to make a custom jig of brass to screw into, chuck THAT into the lathe and spin it down to shorten it. It almost didn't work.

I bought two screws in case of catastrophic failure, but luckily it turned out fine.

And to settle the CF Issue, yes, I am sure CFs are awesome. I wish I could tinker with one. But for the following reasons I went with the Yoda:

A) - Can't afford a CF
B) - It's too big to fit in my battery can
C) - It won't scroll my LED string, and for that matter the progressive lighting of the crystal chamber's LEDs. Oh did I mention that? The LEDs in the chamber don't all come on at once.
D) - The Yoda was available when I needed it to finish this saber in time for Celebration V.

I am not knocking you single LED CF folks, and this isn't the place for another branch of the LED string vs. Single debate, but this is just how this saber is. I might try something else next go round.

Crystal Chambers
08-03-2010, 07:40 AM
I totally understand. It's odd how saying a saber is CF worthy can stir up needless debate. Enough said.

It's strange that you say shortening a screw was harder when it's normally so easy. Must be something I'm missing about the other process and your equipment. Usually a nut and a cut off wheel on a dremel does the job no prob.

Silver Serpent
08-03-2010, 08:06 AM
I think it may be that he drilled out the screw prior to shortening it. You've got to worry about it being significantly weaker than normal at that point.

slothfurnace
08-03-2010, 08:24 AM
I think it may be that he drilled out the screw prior to shortening it. You've got to worry about it being significantly weaker than normal at that point.

Ding! Yep, that's it. I also wanted to make sure it was smooth and that the inside hollow edge had a nice contour in to it, something picky, but it wasn't the easiest thing I have done.

Roy's Blues
08-03-2010, 09:44 AM
http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/085.jpg

I drilled out the cap screw.

There's just enough purchase left for the hex wrench, and now this is my sound port. Without it, my sound is half as loud. I wanted to have a sound port back here, but I didn't want to impact the visual authenticity of the saber.

You could also hide some sound holes under the D ring holder, using a washer to add a bit of space.
pommel/washer/d ring holder.

xl97
08-03-2010, 09:46 AM
Argh!! We've been over the CF issue at least three times on this thread, I think. This saber has a scrolling LED-ladder blade. Until the CF supports LED-ladders, a CF would in some ways be a downgrade for this saber. Now, if the next CF does support LED-ladders, well, that's a different story.



hmmmmm..........


http://forums.thecustomsabershop.com/showthread.php?t=9708&highlight=Vyper



also, on a side note..

you can put some hex heads in a vise and use a drill press as well.. alignment can be tricky..but not that hard (Ive done several myself)

this was also done before for some hex heads around emitters to let light through as well.

but I suppose it works for sound just as well!! LOL..

Skottsaber
08-03-2010, 10:12 AM
The thing is that the Mr board scrolls the blade up and down, whereas the CF would fade it.

And Sloth... I can't wait for TOR if you can be this awesome :D

Lord Dottore Matto
08-03-2010, 11:21 AM
Oh did I mention that? The LEDs in the chamber don't all come on at once.


Called the ramping LED effect...first done in 2008 by some Sith Lord around here ;)

@ everyone, this is not the place to get into the board debate. That Yoda will be quite nice (I personally really like them and they put out >1A). This saber will most certainly be more than just the sum of it's parts ;)

slothfurnace
08-04-2010, 08:13 AM
Called the ramping LED effect...first done in 2008 by some Sith Lord around here ;)

@ everyone, this is not the place to get into the board debate. That Yoda will be quite nice (I personally really like them and they put out >1A). This saber will most certainly be more than just the sum of it's parts ;)

Thank you LDM, I knew I wasn't the first to come up with the ramping LED effect, I just forgot to mention that's what was going on in there ;)

I filled in the gap above the crystal last night with a machined LED mount that will shine blue light down from the top of the chassis back along the rest of the guts. I think it helps quite a bit, will post pics soon.

Rhyen Skytracker
08-04-2010, 11:45 AM
I feel like I am watching a soap opera. You tells us about something else great you are doing and then make us "stay tuned" for the pictures. LOL

ecko
08-04-2010, 12:02 PM
I feel like I am watching a soap opera. You tells us about something else great you are doing and then make us "stay tuned" for the pictures. LOL

LOL
"As the Graflex turns."
"General Saber"
"Young and the Slothfurnace"
"Days of our Jedi"

Shadar Al'Niende
08-04-2010, 04:23 PM
LOL
"As the Graflex turns."
"General Saber"
"Young and the Slothfurnace"
"Days of our Jedi"

hahah that's priceless...

Skottsaber
08-05-2010, 07:03 AM
How I met your graflex (at C5) :mrgreen:

slothfurnace
08-05-2010, 07:42 AM
How I met your graflex (at C5) :mrgreen:

To add to the drama, I have bad news....
Something happened to my Yoda board. I went to add the wires to the new LED, should have been easy, but even before I added the wires, I noticed my lights went out. My crystal LEDs were hooked up to channel 1, my blade plug insert LEDs were hooked up to channel 2. When I turned it on when I got home ast night, nothing lit up. After rewiring it twice, and testing the actual board, I notice I only get ground connection from three of the six ground channels, one, two, six are not working right. This is with nothing plugged in to the board, and using a multimeter on the board plug pins.

When I test with the multimeter, I get 4.8 or 4.9 volts grounding back to 3,4,5 and a very minimal grounding back t o 1,2, 6

Does anyone know what could have happened? The transistors running those channels are on the edges of the board, perhaps I knocked them loose?

In any case, I am pretty bummed, and discouraged. I suppose I could wire everything up to the middle channels for the convention, but it won't be perfectly timed to the audio, and it bugs me to no end that I have put all this work into this project and come so far, and am so close to being done, and this now is something cropping up.

I'll take some time to mope, and then wire it together so at least I can take pics of the new LED mount above the crystal, but any advice or hints as to what to do with my board are greatly welcome.

No "switch it out for a CF" suggestions allowed.

Darth Xusia
08-05-2010, 08:02 AM
When is the convention?

xl97
08-05-2010, 08:12 AM
possible new yoda board..

but before that.. maybe Zook/MH can chime in here.. he plays with and repairs some of the sound boards here..

maybe he can suggest something.

Jedi-Loreen
08-05-2010, 06:21 PM
CV is NEXT WEEK.

Matt Thorn
08-05-2010, 06:41 PM
Eeek! Somebody send slothfurnace a Yoda board! I'd send the unused one I have, but shipping from Japan, it would never make it in time. It would be a crime to have this saber makes its public debut in sub-par condition.

psab keel
08-05-2010, 07:14 PM
Slothfurnace! I sent you a PM and an e-mail. PLEASE GET BACK TO ME ASAP! I may be able to help you!

Psab Keel

Xoultrain
08-05-2010, 08:32 PM
Slothfurnace, I also sent you a PM. I've been watching this thread since the beginning, and I can't sit by without at least offering some help if I can! I am so amazed by the work you've done, and I can't wait to see it finished!

slothfurnace
08-06-2010, 07:16 AM
Xoultrain, Psab, Matt,

Thanks so much for wanting to help, you guys rock!

Here's the deal, I don't think anyone could get it to me in time, but all is not lost. The board is not dead, it just has three groundchannels out.

I will wire it up to light up at least and there will be sound, the thing is, when the snap hiss of the sound happens, the lights will come on a bit later than they should. While this sucks, it will work for now anyway.

I will replace the board, I have replied to you all offering boards, and again, I do appreciate your help.

Slothfurnace may be down for a minute or two, but he's not out.

slothfurnace
08-06-2010, 05:26 PM
http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/087.jpg

Ok, so I got my lights wired...

I do notice one problem, even when the unit is off, I get a small voltage coming through the board and out to the LEDs.

The kicker? when I plug my kill switch into the recharge port, all the LEDs come on hot.

What in the world could be causing that?

Well, While I wait to figure that out, here's a final update for the night...

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/088.jpg

I got my grips, and decided to put them on tonight as a break from looking at wires...

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/089.jpg

I made a template in photoshop and printed it out, wrapped it around the hilt, and pulled back the last half inch of tape from each grip, and secured them on one at a time. Once I got them evenly spaced, I slid my template down to the bottom, and gently raised each grip and pulled the adhesive protector down with needlenose pliers. Once I carefully aligned the grip, I moved on to the next one until I got all seven straight.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/090.jpg

Next to it you see the correct bubblestrip, but I will shave that down a bit tomorrow and install it.

Matt Thorn
08-06-2010, 08:55 PM
Now that sounds familiar. Are you using a relay or transistor in your setup, or just powering the LEDs directly through the Yoda board?

I had a problem with the LEDs remaining dimly lit after powering down when I tried a solid-state relay. And there are numerous threads on the forums about people having similar problems. Do some searching and you might find a solution.

I'm trying to remember who our resident electrical wizards are. Zook maybe?

As for the LEDs coming on hot when you insert the kill key, it sounds like the charge port may not be wired properly. I've done this a few times myself. If it's wired properly, the kill key should cut the common ground line between the batteries and everything else. Your kill key isn't metal, is it? I suppose it's possible that with all metal inside the hilt, you've got a short circuit somewhere. As for the reason why they should go from dimly lit to brightly lit when you insert the kill key, that sounds like some funky transistor thing. By cutting off power to one thing (say, the board), you may be rerouting power to the LEDs.

Sorry for the vague response, but I'm working from vague recollections here, and I am *not* one of the resident electrical wizards.

xl97
08-06-2010, 09:36 PM
try taking the re-charge port of the equation..and then report any/all problems.. sometimes re-charge ports can be flaky.. which results in false positives.

Shadar Al'Niende
08-06-2010, 09:49 PM
i had a short when the neg on my led grounded out on the inside of the hilt, so that when the metal charger plug was inserted my LED came on... not sure if this is what your issue is but i would guess your kill key/charger turns on the LED due to a short somewhere.

eastern57
08-06-2010, 11:08 PM
Yes, continual dim-lit/low current is a sign that you blew a transistor. If you have a multi-meter you can check to see which one you blew. Use the bridge connection setting, and check from the gnd to leg 2 or 3 (can't remember specifically) on each of the transistors, you'll know which transistor it is when the light goes out.

If you have the ability to swap SMD components - great. Otherwise, I'd say just avoid using that connection entirely, because it will still eat a little battery power unless you have a killkey in. A scrolling blade with 5 segments is still cool.

If you're getting a totally hot (as in "on") LED, you may have swapped the negatives on the recharge port.

slothfurnace
08-09-2010, 06:36 AM
Yes, continual dim-lit/low current is a sign that you blew a transistor. If you have a multi-meter you can check to see which one you blew. Use the bridge connection setting, and check from the gnd to leg 2 or 3 (can't remember specifically) on each of the transistors, you'll know which transistor it is when the light goes out.

If you have the ability to swap SMD components - great. Otherwise, I'd say just avoid using that connection entirely, because it will still eat a little battery power unless you have a killkey in. A scrolling blade with 5 segments is still cool.

If you're getting a totally hot (as in "on") LED, you may have swapped the negatives on the recharge port.

Excellent, I will check this! That sounds like exactly what is happening.

This weekend I went and hollowed out a bit more of my battery can for the board, so I can wrap it in more electrical tape, or possibly some heatshrink to keep everything isolated. I think my big lesson to learn here is I need to do better isolation and insulation from shorts and such. Especially since 95% of this saber is conductive brass or aluminum or steel.

psab keel
08-09-2010, 01:41 PM
Hey Slothfurnace,

If it helps at all, I would suggest heatshrink if you can get the right size. In my experience electrical tape tends to shift too much.

Ronan
08-10-2010, 11:06 PM
Mate... you blew my mind away (and that doesn't happen often!).

Props to you, theirs just nothing i can say to make you understand how i feel...

Except to show you this: Click Me! (http://www.vitaminoc.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/Star-Wars-Rock-Concert-star-wars-6461141-1200-813.jpg)

If you ever feel like parting with it, or maybe getting some work, do contact me :D

Jedi-Loreen
08-10-2010, 11:13 PM
Heh, I had that as my desktop for a while. :p

slothfurnace
08-15-2010, 06:27 AM
Mark LOVED it!

Going in, it was all morning in line to get it signed. I debated the whole way leading up to it whether to get the battery can or the plaque signed, and finally just decided to get the can signed.

The people at the door to the booth really liked the saber, and all convention it turned heads.. But the real joy was when Mark saw it.

He did a double take when my wife said I built it myself. He said it was so much better than what he had on the set, and told me about how the original one had metal tracks that cut his hands, and how uncomfortable it was to handle. He said mine was much more comfy, and really liked the inside, and how it lit up. He sat and talked to me for a few minutes about it and thanked me for bringing it.

I had paid for one signature, and when he was done talking to me about it he said, "Yeah, I tried getting it all on that round part" and I said, well, I had this plaque here if you couldn't, but that looks fine... and he said, "Here, I'll sign that too" and snatched it out of my hand and signed it and handed it back to me grinning, like he knew his handlers hated when he gives out free signatures.

He really was so gracious and nice, and a funny fellow. Unfortunately, they did not allow photography at the table, but I will never forget him shaking my hand and thanking me for bringing it for him to sign.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/091.jpg

Now I have the battery can AND the plaque signed. He solved the debate on how to get it signed!

Matt Thorn
08-15-2010, 06:51 AM
That is a great story. And if any saber in the galaxy deserves a Mark Hamill autograph, it's yours, slothfurnace. I am so glad he took a few minutes to really appreciate it. I feel a sense a vicarious pride for some reason. :cool: Congratulations.

jin starkiller
08-15-2010, 07:00 AM
congrats on getting not one but two autographs ....i'm sooo jealous:D

Shadar Al'Niende
08-15-2010, 08:15 AM
I feel in awe just reading that story.... You ARE going to clear coat that right?! ;)

Rhyen Skytracker
08-15-2010, 09:10 AM
Very nice indeed. I am glad he got a chance to really look at your saber and appreciate it. I know we all appreciate it. :D

ecko
08-15-2010, 09:35 AM
........................ that is just too awesome for words! WOW!:D

Sunrider
08-15-2010, 09:38 AM
That's so cool. Congrats man. And great work. That saber does deserve both sigs. :cool::cool::cool::cool:

Jedi-Loreen
08-15-2010, 10:18 AM
Great story. I'm really glad he liked your saber.

I've met Mark before, and he's a really nice guy.







And, I have bestowed upon this thread........

My 5,000th Post! :p

Obi-Ben
08-15-2010, 12:03 PM
Awesome story. It literally brings a tear to my eye. My non-robotic eye. I really hope you keep this one for yourself. You deserve it.

slothfurnace
08-15-2010, 12:45 PM
Awesome story. It literally brings a tear to my eye. My non-robotic eye. I really hope you keep this one for yourself. You deserve it.

I haven't decided if I am keeping this one or not, but I do have a special love for it.

Here's a couple pics of it around C5, I have to edit some more pics when I get home, but these I liked..

Here it is next to the EFX Luke Reveal...

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/092.jpg

One of the guys at the EFX booth there saw me taking this pic and asked me to please put it down, hands off... he didn't realize I was holding my own saber next to theirs. The other fellow there, an engineer for EFX, didn't catch his name, almost didn't want to hand it back to me after I showed it to him. He started off saying, "We can't make this, it's too complicated. That's why we delayed the Obi, the casting molds were too expensive...."

This shot is the saber at the G4TV Hoth Ice Bar...

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/093.jpg

Which was a lot of fun.

Jedi-Elf
08-15-2010, 12:50 PM
All I can say is wow! That is one amazingly well-built saber and the autographs just make it better! I also love the fact that "Luke Skywalker" himself told you it is better than the original prop! If I were you I'd keep that baby forever and will it to my kids!

Ronan
08-15-2010, 01:59 PM
*Waves money* C'monnnnnn :D

If i may ask, how much did you pay for the autograph? (I had no idea you even had to pay to get autographs... but it makes sense... good business on their part).

Jay-gon Jinn
08-15-2010, 03:22 PM
Congratulations on the autographs sloth! It was a great story to read!

cannibal869
08-15-2010, 03:54 PM
That is a great story. And if any saber in the galaxy deserves a Mark Hamill autograph, it's yours, slothfurnace. I am so glad he took a few minutes to really appreciate it. I feel a sense a vicarious pride for some reason. :cool: Congratulations.

Ditto that - yours is truly one of a kind now Slothfurnace!

And yes, please find some way to protect the signature!!!

-C

psab keel
08-15-2010, 06:06 PM
Slothfurnace!

What an amazing story and experience for you! I wish I could say that I wasn't jealous. But I am. Just a little. Luke Skywalker has been and will always be my favorite character from the films and one day I want to meet Mark Hamill. Not only did he play my hero growing up, but he also seems like a really talented and funny everyman with a whole deal of modesty to boot.

I'm so glad that he turned out to be such a great guy and that he took the time to sign both the plaque and your insanely awesome saber for you.

And I think it's hilarious that the vendor at the Efx booth thought you were handling their product!

Congratulations man! If I were you, I would keep it and pass it on to my children.

-Psab

Obi-Dar Ke-Gnomie
08-15-2010, 06:10 PM
Dude, that is awesome! I'm really happy for you. Your hard work has definitely paid off!

Matt Thorn
08-15-2010, 06:51 PM
I was a bit shocked when I first heard of the American habit of taking money for autographs (and I say that as an American). In Japan, it would be unthinkable. But it does make sense, considering 1) how many people get celebrity autographs just to put them up for sale on ebay (I would never ask for an autograph that I didn't want to keep my entire life) and 2) the fact that a lot of people who are celebrities to us geeks may not be rolling in money, and need to defray costs somewhere.

I love the line from the eFx engineer, "We can't make this, it's too complicated." :p Exactly! That's what differentiates custom sabers (or replicas or doodads of any kind) from mass-produced products. There are some things manufacturers can do better than us (pumping out PCBs and convenient battery/speaker modules, for instance), but there is so much that an individual pouring love (and money and time) into a single piece can achieve that simply can't be replicated in mass-manufacturing.


Congratulations to J-Lo for her 5000th post! Wow. That number may make it sound like J-Lo has no life outside outside these forums, but when you consider that she's been here for four and a half years, that works out to an average of around just three posts per day. (I think.) Hope I'll still be around for your 10,000th post, J-Lo. :cool:

Lord Dottore Matto
08-16-2010, 12:30 PM
Well done sloth. That reminds me of the time when John Holmes signed my...:lol:

Caine Drathul
08-16-2010, 03:36 PM
Well done sloth. That reminds me of the time when John Holmes signed my...:lol:

HAHAHAHA!

"Boogie Nights", LDM style. Uh oh.

Yeah, er, um anyways...cool stuff, Sloth! :rolleyes:

Shadar Al'Niende
08-16-2010, 07:01 PM
...That's what differentiates custom sabers (or replicas or doodads of any kind) from mass-produced products. There are some things manufacturers can do better than us (pumping out PCBs and convenient battery/speaker modules, for instance), but there is so much that an individual pouring love (and money and time) into a single piece can achieve that simply can't be replicated in mass-manufacturing...

Seriously. I don't think i could have said it better myself. Just look at what sloth has done!

Crystal Chambers
08-17-2010, 04:25 AM
Very cool. It's to great to get a peak at your C5 experience too. So who signed it? ChoYaill? lol Funny that his signature barely resembles any of the letters in his name.

Ronan
08-17-2010, 12:51 PM
Very cool. It's to great to get a peak at your C5 experience too. So who signed it? ChoYail? lol Funny that his signature barely resembles any of the letters in his name.

Mark Hamill... the actor that played Luke Skywalker :eek:

Matt Thorn
08-17-2010, 04:19 PM
Mark Hamill... the actor that played Luke Skywalker :eek:
Ronan, she was joking. ;)

Ronan
08-18-2010, 12:38 AM
Ronan, she was joking. ;)

Well I completely missed that one :D

I found it strange she didn't know... darn it:mad:

Crystal Chambers
08-18-2010, 04:59 AM
Funny that his signature barely resembles any of the letters in his name.

Yeah you missed...I know who The Hamill is.

strengthofrage
08-22-2010, 06:53 AM
I'm a little late, just wanted to say I enjoyed your story... that must have felt pretty good coming from Luke himself ;)

galen marek
08-22-2010, 11:24 AM
this is incredible work m'man, it surpasses most of everything i have ever seen to do with star wars!
While building this was it a case of just lucking out and finding bits that just went together or was there alot of precise measuring?

slothfurnace
08-23-2010, 06:29 AM
this is incredible work m'man, it surpasses most of everything i have ever seen to do with star wars!
While building this was it a case of just lucking out and finding bits that just went together or was there alot of precise measuring?

I would say it's a mix of both. There was a TON of fitting parts together, and in the course of that, I would select one piece or feature and say THIS one stays, and as it evolved, more and more got solidified, all the possibilities started falling away and it took shape.

The beginning was the harddrive platter retainer plates. Those were my step one, then I got the idea for the radiator section, and the rest was sculpted around that. As I narrowed everything down, I shaved some lenth here and there, adjusted, shortened, removed pieces, etc, but the general idea stayed the same.

I had designs for the thing to be springloaded, so when you unlocked the clamp it it snapped out to the open position. Designs for this and other features that didn't make it due to the rush to finish before Celebration V are still in my stack of sketches for this saber, but I may revisit those ideas for the next saber.

As for this one, I have got my blade LED string soldered up, the DIN plug adapter machined and threaded for the TCSS blade, diffuser foam (thanks Cordaroyfog) and it's all wired up. I may have to cut my blade down an inch or two though, and I plan to do that Tuesday night (my sabersmith night)

The new Yoda Board seems to work great (thanks Psab!) and I'll get the insulating issues that caused the first one to fry fixed for good before I reinstall it.

I also have begun sketching the display... This saber isn't quite done, and I haven't made pics the past few days because of work and travel, but I'll be back on it this week, so stay tuned.

Matt Thorn
08-23-2010, 06:55 AM
While building this was it a case of just lucking out and finding bits that just went together or was there alot of precise measuring?
Haha! Galen, luck has very little to do with any of slothfurnace's work. Just read the thread (yeah, I know it's long, but it's worth it) and you'll see what a perfectionist he is. :cool:

jin starkiller
08-23-2010, 07:56 AM
very true Matt ...i haven't seen anyone come close to Slothfurnaces as of yet .....but i will have to say the crystal chambers that we are seeing are better than they have been because of his build people are trying to do better than they would have before because Slothfurnaces was a exempliary example of what can be done

galen marek
08-23-2010, 09:21 AM
I know what you mean matt, some extreme hard work and perfection going on here, but sometimes when you're just finding parts, and you think "hmm that would look nice on my saber, and it looks like it might fit", and then you try it out and it fits perfectly.

KuroChou
08-23-2010, 11:01 PM
I gotta say, I couldn't have picked a better time to poke back in here. Absolutely gorgeous man. I would kill for the time and resources to do an in depth saber like this.

As already stated by everyone, it gives me tons of inspiration and direction for things I hadn't quite figured out, or hadn't decided on yet.

It's borderline travesty that you haven't been mobbed by prop companies seeking an art lead.

psab keel
08-24-2010, 01:32 AM
Hey Slothfurnace!

SO glad to hear that the Yoda board is working for you. I certainly hope that it doesn't have any bugs and that you can finish up the saber without any technical difficulties.

Looking forward to seeing more build pictures and most certainly curious as to what saber you'll do next.

Psab

Noyl Wendor
08-24-2010, 09:52 PM
Very nice work, makes me a little jelous as well, you got to shake hands with the Hamill. I just got done reading your story, thats definatly one for the books.
Very cool.

slothfurnace
08-25-2010, 05:41 PM
I gotta say, I couldn't have picked a better time to poke back in here. Absolutely gorgeous man. I would kill for the time and resources to do an in depth saber like this.

As already stated by everyone, it gives me tons of inspiration and direction for things I hadn't quite figured out, or hadn't decided on yet.

It's borderline travesty that you haven't been mobbed by prop companies seeking an art lead.


Thank you so very much! I don't know if I'd want to leave my job, it's kind of a dream for me at the moment, but working at a prop house was what I have been wanting to do since I was six years old, special effects, models, etc. for movies.

Me working at BioWare on The Old Republic as a visual effects artist is close enough!


Hey Slothfurnace!

SO glad to hear that the Yoda board is working for you. I certainly hope that it doesn't have any bugs and that you can finish up the saber without any technical difficulties.

Looking forward to seeing more build pictures and most certainly curious as to what saber you'll do next.

Psab


Yessir! Thank you so very much for the board, I am being extra careful with it. So far it's perfect! As far as what's next, I haven't decided, but I have a few thoughts cooking in my head.


Very nice work, makes me a little jelous as well, you got to shake hands with the Hamill. I just got done reading your story, thats definatly one for the books.
Very cool.

Thanks Noyl! I appreciate it. I have had loads of fun working on this one, and it was a great honor to meet Mark Hamill.


Did a little work tonight on my blade, I think I finally finished this step up. I had to shorten my blade a couple inches, and then I needed to finish my plug.


http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/094.jpg

Here's a shot of the blade plug setup. I have my LED string in there, with one LED off the base, with wires, bent and cut down to fit the hole I drilled in the base DIN plug adapter. This allows me to shine a very bright light into the graflex glass eye. Otherwise, I wouldn't be getting any light in there due to the adapter covering up the glass eye port. I also had to drill and notch the DIN plug retainer bottom half to accept where my LED is sitting. It's all very close quarters in there, but it fits and works fine.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/095.jpg

Here you see how it goes together. The LED is cut flush to the inner diameter of the blade plug. The wire slack will coil up inside the adapter.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/096.jpg

Here is the setscrew that keeps it all together, this keeps the plug in the blade adapter, and the adapter in the blade.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/097.jpg

And now for what I like to call "a little moment of truth." It's when you get it all together and turn it on and see your hard work pay off. It's when you have your fingers crossed and flip the switch.

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/098.jpg

I have a little more work to do on the battery canister, I need to make absolutely sure everything is isolated, stable, and good. But I am very very close.

ARKM
08-25-2010, 05:55 PM
Do want.

Jay-gon Jinn
08-25-2010, 09:33 PM
And now for what I like to call "a little moment of truth." It's when you get it all together and turn it on and see your hard work pay off. It's when you have your fingers crossed and flip the switch.
I know that feeling very well! It happens tome every time I build a saber! It's looking good as always, too!

slothfurnace
08-26-2010, 05:33 AM
I know that feeling very well! It happens tome every time I build a saber! It's looking good as always, too!

Thanks much!

Got my battery can finished up, and here's some beauty shots...

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/099.jpg

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/100.jpg

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/101.jpg

http://www.nonentity.com/New/Images/Projects/ANHLukeFX/102.jpg

Silver Serpent
08-26-2010, 06:33 AM
I know soliciting is not permitted on these forums, but I would pay real money to have the patience and attention to detail that slothfurnace has shown with this saber.

I guess it's back to doing things the hard way...practice, practice, practice :)

Matt Thorn
08-26-2010, 06:43 AM
I know soliciting is not permitted on these forums, but I would pay real money to have the patience and attention to detail that slothfurnace has shown with this saber.

I guess it's back to doing things the hard way...practice, practice, practice :)
Yeah, I don't see "patience" or "attention to detail" anywhere in the TCSS catalog. I'd love to see Tim stock those, along with "talent," "skill," and "knowledge." :p

slothfurnace, am I right in guessing the plug has its own resistored LED(s) inside?

psab keel
08-26-2010, 03:42 PM
Just when I don't think I can be amazed any more by you Slothfurnace, I am proven wrong! I've never enjoyed being wrong in my whole life! haha

Simply amazing work there my friend. And the icing on the cake is having LUKE SKYWALKER HIMSELF autograph the inside of this beautiful piece of custom art!

Bravo my friend! Bravo! : )

(null).exe
08-26-2010, 07:24 PM
Just got to see this in person today and OMG.

Pictures (while extremely detailed) do NOT do this justice!

The radiator and piping on the internals are incredibly small and detailed.

An excellent creation Slothfurnace!

Skottsaber
08-27-2010, 08:07 AM
One word people!
www.slothfurnace.com
:D:D:D:D

Matt Thorn
08-27-2010, 08:25 AM
One word people!
www.slothfurnace.com (http://www.slothfurnace.com)
:D:D:D:D
Skott, I guess you missed this a few dozen pages back:
http://www.nonentity.com/
You can get a taste of the whole range of slothfurnace madness.

Shadar Al'Niende
08-27-2010, 08:25 AM
http://hackaday.com/2010/08/27/devote-your-life-to-replicating-a-lightsaber/

'Nuff said....

Sloth is officially awesome :cool:

Skottsaber
08-27-2010, 08:28 AM
Yeah I did see that loooong ago Matt. I actually have one of those Astromech wallpapers.

ThreeQuadFive
08-27-2010, 12:19 PM
I LOVE your work on these sabers!

Do want sabers?

DO WANT DO WANT DO WANT!

slothfurnace
09-07-2010, 02:54 PM
So, folks, not to necropost, but I have been sitting on this bit of info for a LONG time.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gUZH1hkwdY&feature=player_embedded#!

Scroll to about 3:12, to see my crystal chamber, in game, in my lightsaber assembly cinematic in Star Wars: The Old Republic! Demoed at PAX a few days ago.

Work asked me to do this cinematic, and when I asked what resources were already made, they said none. For the lightsaber insides, that is. I used a pre existing saber exterior.

But naturally I built my crystal chamber and chassis for the game, and now it's public, I can't tell you how happy I am to finally be able to tell people!

Thanks for the ride! This is the final part of this build.

Sincerely,

Bradley W. Lewis
slothfurnace

Jedi-Elf
09-07-2010, 03:19 PM
Oh wow sloth, that is so awesome that you got the opportunity to put your crystal chamber into a game!! Way to go man! Couldn't have found a nicer chamber to use than this one!

Matt Thorn
09-07-2010, 03:52 PM
You actually used your own chassis! That is fantastic. Congratulations. I hope this is the first of many official SW contributions to come.

Shadar Al'Niende
09-07-2010, 06:15 PM
You are officially livin the dream man.... i am sooooo green :mrgreen:

JamoUp
09-07-2010, 06:37 PM
OMG when I saw the vid the other day. I was like "that looks just like sloths saber core"
Excellent work.

Ronan
09-07-2010, 07:43 PM
-Sloth










-Everyone else

:p Damn you Sloth!!!

xl97
09-07-2010, 08:32 PM
congrats!..

its a nice 'wrap' to a nice project..