Brains
Modified July 4, 2023
One thing that has bothered me about previous B9 builds is that the brain light rods alternate up and down in a constant, predictable pattern. When watching the show, it sometimes doesn't look like that, but sometimes does. My plan is to use a multi-track cam and to have the lights "hesitate" and "waggle" instead of constant up and down.
The animation in the original costume was only used in the first few episodes of the show.
Here is a video I made of brain close-up clips from the first season of Lost in Space:
This detail from original studio plans shows the intent of irregular light rod movement. These drawings were not the final design but it does make me feel even more justified in not using regular alternating sinusoidal movement.
I am modeling the brain cup, rods, and cam in Solidworks so I can virtually test some cam designs.
The software includes some basic animation that should be sufficient for the task, including a rotation "motor" and gravity.
I've created STL Files for the parts shown in this photo. One top has the standard rod and center holes, the other two have my anticipated 2-track arrangement with different center holes. There's an extra hole to put a piece of pushrod into to keep the top from turning and coming loose.
The slots are for wiring to the brain.
Files are HERE
I created a brain eye in SolidWorks and did an FDM print. It fits the copper-plated brain band I have, so I will use it to make eye molds and then cast in waterclear resin.
Files are HERE
I got a deal on the brain bands years ago because they had defective plating.