Transformers Autobot Matrix of Leadership

thingiverse

This is my version of the Autobot Matrix of Leadership, from the 1986 animated movie. I've found several good versions to print online, but they all print in a single color. This model is split into individual components so that each color can be printed separately as needed. I built this model to allow plenty of space for electronics, and also included two features to allow easy on/off and external charging. The left handle has a cavity and internal tube for wire that can be used to attach a toggle switch that's easy to access with your thumb. The bottom left also has a USB port component that can be used to allow USB charging of internal electronics. The simplest setup is a cheap Harbor Freight flashlight wired up to the external switch with some blue plastic or film to alter the color. The “Optional printed parts” listed below are for my more complex setup to hold a 4x4 matrix of NeoPixels (LED Top) connected to a Digispark and LiPo booster/charger with wireless induction charger (tucked into the LED Supports part). The two halves of the Matrix can be connected together with pieces of 1.75mm filament in the holes provided, or with rare earth disc magnets glued into the slots provided. The magnets (two in each hollow) allow the Matrix to open and close more easily, but aren't necessary. Some of the parts can print without supports, but most require it to fit together properly or avoid longer gaps to bridge. The parts that need support are marked below. Using PrusaSlicer's “paint-on supports” allows you to place them only in areas you want, which uses far less filament than standard support on the entire model. The final prop is just under 13.5 inches across. It also prints well at 50%, although the slots for the magnets and switch won't be as useful. Printed parts list: Silver parts: Bottom Left Valve Left handle (supports) Left Shell (supports) Left Valve (supports suggested) Right handle (supports) Right Shell (supports) Right Valve 01 Right Valve 02 Top Right Valve USB Port Orange parts: Left Bottom Segment (supports) Left Middle Segment (supports) Left Top Segment (supports) Right Bottom Segment (supports) Right Middle Segment (supports) Right Top Segment (supports) Clear/natural parts: Crystal (supports) Accent color parts: Bottom Left Valve Button USB Plug (optional) Optional printed parts: LED Top LED Supports Non-printed parts list: 8.5mm x 13.5mm Rocker switch - https://www.amazon.com/Fielect-Rocker-Switch-Toggle-Marine/dp/B083KG6873 4.75mm x 1.55mm magnets - https://www.amazon.com/Small-Circular-Disc-Magnets-16x1/dp/B087JWVWJ7 USB adapter - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07W844N43 M3 x 6mm bolts (to attach USB adapter) - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014OO5KQG Four of the segments need to be placed in specific locations to match up with the registration marks on the handles, and the holes into the inner sphere for wiring. The middle segments, with the valves, can be placed on either side, but work best as they're labeled to match the animated version in the movie. Enjoy!