TARDIS BUILD

I was so happy to have the opportunity to build a lifesized TARDIS.  The replica stands almost 9 feet tall and is being utlized as doorway threshold.  It is on public display at SPACEBUDS in Eugene Oregon.  The replica features light up signs, working doorway, and a working antique phone in the hatch.

 

UNWEATHERED:

 This Tardis will be on permanent public display starting summer 2017 in Eugene, Oregon.  The client wanted a nearly fullsize tardis (it stands at 105" tall) that has an abbreviated profile that allows it to stand flush against a flat wall.  This Tardis serves as an entryway threshold. 

HOW IT WAS MADE:

 The first thing I did was develop a highly detailed blueprint in the form of VECTOR FILES.   I could then take these vectors and laser cut a scale study model.   Here is the first model:

As I communicated with my client, I learned that the Tardis had to be scaled to fit their specifications, and it also had to serve as an entry-way, which meant the back end had to be kept open.  Here's the new study model with these changes:  

 Once I made sure all my specs were correct, I went forward and CNC cut the parts FULL SCALE! 

 Panels being laminated together:

  

 The sign boxes starting to frame up:

Because the Tardis was going to be transported to Oregon from California, I had to make sure it was 100% modular.  Therefore, I couldn't use a single nail in its construction.  Everything down to the framing had to be easily disassembled and reassembled.   This led me to designing a specific framework that was held together with bolts.  The side flats could then be screwed to this frame.

The walls were finally laid up onto the frame and we got our first glimpse of what was going on.

 

 

 

Here we are starting the roof elevations.   I had designed and CNC cut the top profiles for both elevations.  Now we had to attach the various walls:

Once the walls were in place, we could start the complicated task of framing a box for the roof pedals.

Once the walls were in place, we could start the complicated task of framing a box for the roof pedals.

 Bondo us used to fill gaps. 

Primer coating the parts:

I decided to cap the roof in styrene panels for a cleaner look. 

Test fitting the vinyl signage (mounted to frosted white acrylic):

                      ELECTRONICS!

I was happy to invite the famous Randy Neubert (voodoofx, ILM) onto the project as my lighting expert.   l laser cut a mount for the tube light and we utlized LED strip to light both the tube and the signage.

 

 Here's a look at how the Tardis backs up against the wall at the entryway.  

 Build Team: Cristofer Adrian, Jeff Gonzalez, Randy Neubert with the assistance from Neal's CNC, New Digital Graphics, Moore Newton, VoodooFx.com

 VISIT THE STARGATE DIAL REPLICA!