Sergiu PărgrasIndustrial designer
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Prop design · Prop-making · 3D printing

Digital Bat

Year
2021
Client
Kunst Atelier
Role
Prop Designer
Finished articulated Digital Bat prop

Although props are often non-functional objects, this one was especially demanding because of its small dimensions and the movement requested by the director.

Bringing a sketch to life

The Digital Bat measures 200 mm across its wingspan, while some connecting parts are as thin as 1.5 mm. Starting from a sketch provided by the set-design department, I developed the prop as a moving object that could be handled and used by the actors.

I used Rhinoceros and PrusaSlicer to model, prepare, and produce the articulated 3D-printed system.

Digital rendering of the articulated bat prop
The prop began with the set-design department’s sketch and was translated into a workable moving object.
Digital Bat component layout and mechanism study
The mechanism was developed around the compact wingspan and the movement required on set.
Digital Bat technical design study
Each element had to remain light, legible, and robust enough for repeated handling.
Detailed digital model of the articulated bat prop
Fine clearances allowed the joints to move while preserving the bat’s character and silhouette.
Digital Bat assembly and component study
The assembly was resolved as a compact system of printed parts and mechanical connections.
Digital Bat wing mechanism design
The wings and articulated body were coordinated to create a convincing moving prop.
Digital Bat design model shown from the side
Digital modelling made it possible to test the movement and proportions before fabrication.
3D-printed Digital Bat prop component
3D printing translated the fine mechanical details into a physical prop.
Assembled Digital Bat prop
The printed components came together as a tactile, actor-ready object.
Detail of the articulated Digital Bat prop
The articulated structure preserves movement within a very small physical scale.
Digital Bat prop shown during fabrication
Fabrication tests refined the connection details and the final motion.
Finished articulated Digital Bat prop shown upright
The final prop brings the set-design sketch to life as a moving object for the actors.
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