Building K9 from Dr.Who

Back Again...

2012-02-16T11:50:00.000+11:00

No, I haven't been exterminated off the face of the planet. I am still here, still tinkering on my K-9.

7th December last year, I came to my laptop that was running fine a few minutes earlier and it just had a black screen. It could not be revived. It took over two months until work managed to get a replacement laptop to me with all my data recovered on it. So now I can access the web more easily and get back to blogging my creative endeavours.

More posts to follow shortly, so stay tuned.

Regards, Izzy

Referenece Images

2011-11-05T13:00:00.001+11:00

Here are some more reference images of Matt Irvine's Hero prop I found in 2009 from a forum. They were uploaded at the time by Gaffzille. Matt can be seen in a number of images.

Where's K-9?

2011-11-02T13:00:00.001+11:00

I just love this, it is very well done.

Source: http://tdwgeeks.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/u1gu1.jpeg

Referenece Images

2011-10-30T13:00:00.003+11:00

It is always good to have more reference images when you are building a prop. Here are some I stumbled on from RPF, post up by Dano.

Source: http://www.therpf.com/f9/doctor-who-k-9-tin-dog-build-119847/index2.html

Notice the bumpers have been changed by Matt Irvine to square ones.

Matt Irvine has replaced the screws in the head with rivets.

K-9 Merchandise

2011-10-27T15:00:00.010+11:00

The K-9 Official Site has announced that there is to be some official merchandise released. This includes...

THE COMPLETE BOOK OF K-9

This Hardback book is in Full Colour featuring the story of K-9; from his travels in Time and Space with Doctor Who to appearing in his very own series. Featuring anecdotes from many of the people involved with K-9 over the years this is a must have volume that features exclusive never seen before designs, photos and behind the scenes stories.

THE K-9 STORYBOOK

Join K-9 and his friends in this full colour book featuring short stories, behind the scenes features, comic strips and Monster mayhem!.
Release Date September 2011 (still not released).

K-9 COLLECTORS FIGURINE

Details and Image to be announced very soon!

None of the items have been released yet, even though this announcement was from July. I am especially looking forward to 'The Complete Book of K-9'. However, from the Official K-9 Facebook Page I can reveal what the figurine will look like.


Prototype model displayed at the San Diego Comic Convention in the USA. (21 July 2011)

In a toy factory in China... (12 October 2011)

Robot dog set for starring role

2011-09-28T20:33:00.009+10:00

Source: http://www.media.utas.edu.au/general-news/all-news/robot-dog-set-for-starring-role

CentrStage is gearing up for a Dr Who-themed play in Launceston this week.

Evolutionary scientists believe the humble dog may have been the first domesticated animal on the planet.

Picture: “Russell”, played by Chris Jackson, and Who Knows director David Quinn pose with their new-found robotic friend, K9.

Humans and canines are believed to have first joined forces more than 10,000 years ago, and the relationship has been so successful that the dog has been dubbed “man’s best friend”.

But the dog of the future may be more along the aluminium-plated lines of the star of CentrStage’s upcoming comedy, Who Knows.

The Dr Who-themed play features the title character’s constant companion, the robot dog, K9.
Who Knows director David Quinn has already formed a strong bond with K9, who will be performing in the show from 7pm at the Annexe Theatre at Inveresk, from Wednesday, September 28 to Saturday, October 1, with a matinee at 11am on Friday, September 30.

Quinn has praised both the cast and the technical crew who have brought K9 and the rest of the Dr Who world to life.

Along with the antenna-eared K9, technical staff have also sourced or built from scratch a range of other Dr Who props, including a TARDIS, Daleks and a time travel computer.

“When it all was put together, it was fantastic. When you see it under light, it looks amazing,” Quinn said, while throwing an affectionate arm around K9.

“The people that have put so much work into it have really kicked it up a notch.

“We even have a Dalek; we’ve nicknamed him Jerry.”

Quinn said the show, while technically complex, was coming together well.

“Everyone has stepped up to the mark and we are going to have a fantastic looking show as a result,” Quinn said.

Who Knows, is being performed by CentrStage, from 7pm at the Annexe Theatre at Inveresk, from September 28 to October 1, with a matinee at 11am on September 30.

Tickets are available through the Princess Theatre on (03) 6323 3666.

LISTEN to an earlier interview with David Quinn about Who Knows here: http://www.media.utas.edu.au/home/nested-content/podcasts

Published on: 27 Sep 2011 3:42pm

Snow K-9

2011-07-07T16:12:00.000+10:00

For all my readers who are having snow, like in Tasmania, I thought I would present a very inspirational snow K-9, make by Paul Edwards. For the readers in summer, perhaps it will help you think of cool days?

Source: http://www.pauledwards.org.uk/community/community-reporters/14-k-9-without-doctor-who

Yet another one of them silly days, my daughter is off college and wanted to do something in the garden. Obviously today was different, it was full of snow, so no more computer for a while. My last attempt was a polar bear of sorts, so for my next attempt I looked for something completely different. My daughter likes , so I gave it a little bit of thought and decided to have a go at Dr Who's dog

It is starting to take shape, looking a bit like K-9.

Good Dog, K-9 finally finished.

Paul Edwards giving K-9 a pat for being a good dog.

Once I had finished, someone decided to let our dog out, who promptly attacked K-9 and decided to pee all over the other side. After a few adjustments all is well again. Now just got to find of way of stopping our dog attacking it again.

Lego K-9

2011-07-06T16:13:00.001+10:00

I am always amazed at the care and creativity people put into their K-9's, what ever they happen to be made of.

This one is made from lego and is by Lego_Joe. Fantastic!

Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/26956555@N03/4335667121/in/photostream/

K-9 from Doctor Who... made out of Lego. He moves, his eyes light up, his tail wags, his head moves up and down and he fires his nose laser.

John Leeson in Podcast

2011-06-30T14:56:00.000+10:00

A must for all K-9 fans to listen to! :) It was a pure joy to his voice and stories. Thank you Gerri and Eugenia!

Source: http://womentalkscifi.com/podcast/article/51-podcast-41.html

Podcast 41

Tailwags from John Leeson

Submitted by Gerri on June 15, 2011 at 19:04 pm

In this podcast Gerri and Eugenia have a conversation with someone very special to them! John Leeson the voice of K9 one of the Doctor’s longest running companions. K9 has worked with more incarnations of the Doctor than any other companion has! Go on Google him! John Leeson played the voice of K9 for most of the last 25 years and in this podcast we get to listen to some of his most memorable moments from the set of the show, his career in the arts and his passion for food and wine. Gerri and Eugenia were very lucky to meet not only one of their icons but a charming and very interesting man! Their thanks go to Gifts for the Geek www.giftsforthegeek.com.au for this wonderful interview.

K-9 Cross-stitch

2011-06-26T16:20:00.000+10:00

If the current range of K-9 craft wasn't enough for you, there is even a cross-stitch pattern available from here!

Even though K-9 looks really cute, if I were to make it I would change the writing. The quotation is infact, "Why does he looks so... disco?". It comes from Rose Tyler in School Reunion when she first sees K-9.

K-9 Notebook Bag

2011-06-25T15:30:00.000+10:00

A very cute K-9 Notebook bag that was created by Jennifer!

Source: http://jennhoney.tumblr.com/post/5235440694/ok-this-is-what-i-sent-to-jules-for-her-birthday

Build Your Own Paper K-9 - new version

2011-06-22T13:28:00.001+10:00

Mike Daws has created a lovely little model of the new K-9. You can download it from the official site, direct from Mike Daws's site, or by clicking on the image below. I might have to make one myself. :) I have to finish my knitted one first! :D

K-9 in Fashion?

2011-06-18T09:04:00.000+10:00

I have come across this wonderful work by Tess-san who is into fashion design. To see the image in full scale, click here.

New K-9 Wallpapers

2011-06-17T08:59:00.001+10:00

The BBC have made some new high resolution (up to 1440 x 900) K-9 wallpapers available, some of them are brilliant to use as reference images. Oh, and you can use them on your computer desktop too. ;)

You can get them here.

Print Friendly Option - now avaiable on this blog :)

2011-06-16T15:41:00.000+10:00

I know when I have been to a blog and have seen a piece of information that I wanted to keep for future reference, or as a guide, but when you go to print it or save it as a PDF, it just spits out pages of gibberish, the photos are all crammed into one corner. It is just a waste of paper.

To stop this happening here, I have installed a new tool, called PrintFriendly. So if you open a post you are interested (as a separate post, not in the blog feed), then you will have a couple icons come up, giving you the option to print the post, or save it as a PDF. All free, and free of ads too. I hope it saves some hassles as well as saving some trees.

Tiny Knitted K-9

2011-05-21T12:30:00.000+10:00

My friend Jamie passed on a weblink for a pattern of a tiny knitted K-9. I just had to try it out. Here are my results.

Resting on my hand to show size comparison.

To make your own, you can download the pattern for free from the Ravelry link. I had to add a weight into his bottom whilst stuffing so he can sit on the table without doing a face-plant. Knitted in 2.75 mm (US 2) needles with scraps of 8ply yarn.

Thank you Helen Callis for creating such a cute pattern!

Desktop Patrolling K-9

2011-05-19T12:30:00.002+10:00

I have come across this news and must share. In September a desktop patrolling K-9 is due for release. Here is some info on them:

Source: http://www.ikoncollectables.com.au/p8166/Doctor_Who_-_Desktop_Patrol_K-9/product_info.html

Set K-9 loose on a flat surface and he'll navigate his way around. Anytime K-9 senses a nearby object, he'll say, "Access denies, recalculating route. If he happens to bump into something, he'll apologise and move on. With 3 settings (OFF, Master for male owners, Mistress for females), K-9 will defend you and your desktop by warning you with "Danger Master/Mistress" when going near an edge, then backing away, as well as warning you of any deadly Desktop Patrol Daleks that may be nearby, even going as far as engaging them in battle!

I am rather excited by the release. It shouldn't be over priced too, with a current RRP of ￡11.99.

Make a Mini K-9

2011-05-09T14:00:00.000+10:00

This is a cute little K-9 project.

Source: http://www.dadcando.com/default_MAKING.asp?project=K9

Make a K9

Make a cardboard K9 to go with your TARDIS

When the BBC decided to bring back Dr. Who, they even brought back faithful old K9, and a whole new generation of kids got bitten by the Time Lord bug.
. . . My kids were no different, and so we decided to make a K9 to go with our TARDIS. For anyone who doesn’t know what this is, K9 was Dr. Who’s robot dog from way back when, although he did make a brief re-appearance in the recent series. Dr. Who first came to TV in 1963, over 40 years ago. But then 40 years is just a blink of an eye to an immortal from another galaxy, and so the magic of Dr. Who is the same now as it ever was.
. . . If you haven’t seen the show, I recommend the series on DVD as almost essential viewing for anyone aged 8 and over (some scenes may be a bit scary for younger viewers).
. . . To make your K9 you really need to use foamboard, and to finish it off a hyper-bright red LED for the eyes, but these are not big hurdles, because you can easily and cheaply buy both on-line from various merchants.
. . . This model was made extra tricky because my son wanted it to be the same scale as the TARDIS. Even though the TARDIS was quite big, K9 is still a small model, and a whole lot of new issues come with making a small model. If you build a bigger one, why not build it over the base of a cheap remote control car. Foamboard is very light and most remote control cars have their rechargeable battery compartment door on their underside anyway. All you need to do is build your body to replace the car’s body and hey presto, you have rejuvenated an old toy and made something really cool, a radio controlled K9.

Dr.Who vs Star Wars

2011-05-08T14:57:00.004+10:00

This fantastic picture of a Cyber3PO & R2Dalek is by Kari Fry and Jason Novak for TeeFury.com.

Source: http://www.teefury.com/archive/1199/Cyber3PO___R2Dalek/

This here design is a collaboration between Kari Fry and Jason Novak. Since Jason is an awesome writer, and Kari not good at making words, Jason's doing the interview solo:

Tell us about this design.

Well, Kari wanted me to come up with ideas for T-shirts. One thing that has always interested me is the idea of a mash-up, like in music. You know, taking two ideas and making something new from them. In fact, the blog I write for, To Eleven (at http://toeleven.net) posts mash-up music we find on the internet. So, this shirt is an extension of that.

Where are you from?

I'm originally from Canton, Ohio, the Hall of Fame City. But I hate football, so I don't talk about that. Now, I live in Shaker Heights, Ohio.

How would you describe your style?

Well, the idea's style is the mash-up thing I was talking about. I was the brains, but Kari's the talent. Not that she doesn't have brains. I assume she does, actually.

If you could collaborate with anyone, who would you pick?

Kari Fry! If not her, then a graphic designer I know, Jayson Shenk. He cowrites the blog with me, and he does great design work, too!

What historical figure do you most admire?

Probably someone like F. Scott Fitzgerald or J. D. Salinger. Really anyone with a letter for their first name. No, seriously, I'm a writer, and those are two authors I love.

If you weren't designing shirts, what would you be doing?

Writing, listening to music, gaining super powers through high doses or radiation and spider venom. You know...keeping it real.

Would you rather guest star on a cartoon or a sitcom?

I'm kind of a walking cartoon as it is, but I'd like to guest star on an episode of How I Met Your Mother. I think Ted Mosby's from Shaker Heights, so we'd have something to talk about!

Cats vs. Star Wars: which would win the battle?

Star Wars, because cats don't have the Death Star. Cats would totally PWN Star Trek, though.

What is your favorite t-shirt color?

Black or Grey.

What has been your favorite vacation or travel experience?

I have visited Pittsburgh a few times, and I really liked it. Lots of independent music stores there.

Any shout outs?

I'd like to give a shout out to my girlfriend, Adele, and to my brother and my sister-in-law, Ryan Novak and Kari Fry! What up?!?

K-9's Nose

2011-05-07T12:35:00.000+10:00

I have been working on K-9’s head recently. To make him look more like the Hero prop, I have added a little nose addition from 3mm Foamex then sanded it down to the right shape.

The nose of my K-9.

Nose of the Hero prop. Please note that the upper part of the nose was only filled in later. In earlier versions that part is not there.

Ali Spagnola - K-9 Painting

2011-05-06T14:00:00.002+10:00

Ali Spagnola has an interesting site that allows you to request free paintings. The topics are varied, but she does some super cute robots!

Source: http://www.alispagnola.com/blog/archives/1521

K-9 Plushie Pattern

2011-05-05T09:59:00.001+10:00

I stumbled across this most adorable pattern and thought I would share it. It is for a K-9 soft toy. The pattern and description can be found here.

It is SO cute, I am very tempted to sew one myself. :)

K-9 Pisanki

2011-04-24T11:41:00.000+10:00

Every Easter I make pisanki, Polish traditional Easter eggs. They are dyed in onion peals then an image is scratched into the egg using a sharp object like a pin. Usually images are of chickens, bunnies, ducks, bazie (pussy willow), wheat, and other imagery depicting new life and happiness.

This year I thought I would make one slightly different, but an object that does bring me lots of joy, K-9. Here is the result...

The beautiful bunny and bazie (on the dark egg) were done by Sarah.

K-9 in Dork Tower

2011-04-23T13:50:00.000+10:00

A very good image from Dork Tower 19/4/11. Very touching.

Source: http://www.dorktower.com/2011/04/19/

Dedication

2011-04-22T22:20:00.000+10:00

With the most recent passing of Elisabeth Sladen, I have decided to dedicate my K-9 build to Elisabeth's memory.

Fairwell Sarah Jane Smith

2011-04-20T13:48:00.001+10:00

I have just learned that Elisabeth Sladen has passed away after loosing her battle with cancer. I must admit that this news has made me very sad, and even brought quite a few tears to my eyes. I remembered watching her as a teenager on Dr.Who repeats on the ABC, enjoying how she was good friends with the Doctor as they traveled through time and space. I also loved her recent role reprisal in the Sarah Jane Smith Adventures, her fine acting keeping me entertained.

Liz, I will miss you.

Here is what the media are saying on her passing...

Source: http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2011/04/20/3196291.htm

Doctor Who star Sladen dies

Updated 2 hours 48 minutes ago

Cult role: Elisabeth Sladen with Tom Baker as Dr Who (handmadelife.blogspot.com)

British actress Elisabeth Sladen, best known for her role in cult science fiction television series Doctor Who, has died after a battle with cancer.

Liverpool-born Sladen, who was 63, first appeared on the BBC show in 1973, playing the Doctor's assistant, Sarah Jane Smith.
Sladen went on to star in her own spin-off children's show, The Sarah Jane Adventures, the latest series of which was aired late last year.
She made several guest appearances in the revived Doctor Who series with David Tennant.
"I absolutely loved Lis," former Doctor Who writer Russell T Davies, who created The Sarah Jane Adventures, said.
"She was funny and cheeky and clever and just simply wonderful."
Doctor Who's lead writer and executive producer, Steven Moffat, has also paid tribute.
"'Never meet your heroes', wise people say. They weren't thinking of Lis Sladen," said Moffat.
"Sarah Jane Smith was everybody's hero when I was younger, and as brave and funny and brilliant as people only ever are in stories.
"She was exactly as any child would ever have wanted her to be. Kind and gentle and clever; and a ferociously talented actress but in that perfectly English unassuming way."
Sladen leaves behind actor husband Brian Miller and daughter Sadie.
- AFP

Wheel Hubs

2011-03-27T11:54:00.000+11:00

Trying to get a set of wheel hubs (Lynxmotion, HUB-02) has been a problem for me fot over three months now. If you go an try to do a direct purchase from the Lynxmotion website then for one tiny part they quote US$106.70 for shipping!!! Astronomical for a US$8.00 part! I tried to contact them directly not only to confirm if this shipping price is indeed correct, but also what the outer dimeter of the part as they did not list it any where on their site.

After several emails and no reply I tried looking for local distributors. After the third one I tried... I had success! And what service too! Not only did they have the item in stock, they could ship it right away, and at a reasonable AUD$6.50 postage. The hubs were AUD$10.40 (ex GST) a pair. Within days my parcel arrived. So if you are looking for Lynxmotion products or parts I seriously recommend going to the following chap:

Milan
Sedonia Technologies
34 Cyclamen Avenue,
Altona North, Vic, 3025
Phone: 04 1580 2157
info@sedoniatech.com.au
http://www.sedoniatech.com.au/

2 pirs of Lynxmotion HUB-02 hubs (one pair is for another bot)

There is only a 0.5mm difference in the inner dimeter of the wheel (scooter wheel) and the outer dimeter of the hubs, so a little sanding will mean a perfect fit.

Armageddon Expo Tasmania Cancelled for 2011

2011-03-18T20:40:00.000+11:00

Very sad news!

Event update – Hobart Postponed, Melbourne initial Line-up announced
Friday 18 Mar 3:08 PM

After the success of the Sydney and Adelaide events, plans were well underway for the Hobart and Melbourne events planned for June and October.

Unfortunately Armageddon’s head office which is located in Christchurch NZ has been affected by the recent earthquake. This has forced us to postpone the planned Christchurch Event and we have had to make the painful decision to postpone the Hobart event as well.

This is due to logistical difficulties which have arisen from the natural disaster which has been hard on all concerned. This was not an easy decision, as we know that our fans in Hobart were looking forward to the event. However, unless we could provide the incredible expo that we were planning we did not want to bring something that was not up to expectations.

We will be working to re-confirm a date for 2012 and hope to have an announcement post Melbourne.

Changes to Armageddon Expo Tasmania

2011-03-17T12:56:00.001+11:00

I have noticed that they changed the ticket sale dates, and also dropped a few of the guests. For Gold and Silver passes, this is the link that works:

For Gold & Silver Passes

Gold is $463.50 and Silver is $103.00. Ouch. Pricey for a small con. I have yet to find out the regular ticket prices are.

Source: http://armageddonexpo.com/au/tasmania-general-info/

Tasmania General Info

June 11/12^th 2011

Doors open 10am to 6pm both days
Wrest Point, Hobart, Tasmania
General Tickets will be on sale through TICKETEK from March 18^th 2011

VIP tickets will be on sale through http://www.cultureshockevents.com

The event guest line-up is subject to change, so please check back for updates.

Animation guest – Signing free
Rachel Lillis - Pokémon

Comic guest – Signing free
Bill Sienkiewicz - Artist Legend of Electra Assassin

Celebrity guests
Fee applies for tv & movie star guests autographs and photos
Louise Jameson - Doctor Who

All guests attend work and health commitments pending
Fee applies for guest autographs and photos

More to be announced soon!

Armageddon Expo Tasmania

2011-03-08T12:59:00.001+11:00

Yes, Armageddon Expo is coming to Tassi! For all you Doctor Who fans, Louise Jameson is listed as one of the guests. Can you guess where I will be that weekend?

Source: http://armageddonexpo.com/au/tasmania-general-info/

Tasmania General Info

Hobart expo general details
June 11/12^th 2011
Doors open 10am to 6pm both days
Wrest Point, Hobart, Tasmania
General Tickets will be on sale through TICKETEK from March 15^th 2011

VIP tickets will be on sale through http://www.cultureshockevents.com

The event guest line-up is subject to change, so please check back for updates.
As at 17^th December 2010, Event guests include:

Animation guest – Signing free
Rachel Lillis - Pokémon

Comic guest – Signing free
Bill Sienkiewicz - Artist Legend of Electra Assassin

Celebrity guests
Fee applies for TV & Movie star guests autographs and photos
Paul McGillion – Stargate Atlantis
Amber Benson – Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Louise Jameson - Doctor Who

All guests attend work and health commitments pending
Fee applies for guest autographs and photos

More to be announced soon!

K-9 Head, take 3, days 10 & 11

2011-02-24T12:30:00.003+11:00

As I wasn't quite happy with one side (It is just me being fussy and I know it is my fault for not reading the instructions properly!), I have put in a bit of car bog and started working to get the correct shape. I have also filled in gaps etc (covering my sins!). It looks a mess now, but I am sure it will come out ok. After I get it right I will add the final neck pieces.

K-9 Head, take 3, day 9

2011-02-15T09:00:00.015+11:00

Having had friends over I had not had a chance to work on K-9, instead I was taking photos like this:

However, I am back from the outdoors and my work place. I have trimmed the upper piece, reinforced more of the joints with fibreglass and also cutout the top of the Inner Bezel support along the scored lines I made earlier.

I trimmed the cut piece and placed inthe upper piece to reinforce it. I also fibreglassed that area too.

K-9 Head, take 3, day 8

2011-02-05T09:00:00.005+11:00

I have skinned the rest of the side. It has come out much better than the other one. I would recommend that you do the bottom/back sinning first (as per instructions), then the top, then sides.

K-9 Head, take 3, day 7

2011-02-03T09:00:00.002+11:00

It was the next day and I was set on the right track. So the photo below now, it is looking a bit more like Dave's plans. I marked the back and where the sides and top were., then cut it out as per instruction and glued it, but I had not glued the sides yet.

I used a clamp to hold it on the top part. It was actually hard to get the curve, but bending the 1mm strene a few times it took the shape.

Once the glue had cured, it was ready for the next stage. However, it was still very hard to finish off the side skin with the styrene. When I glued it wasn't right. I felt that a top part was required now for the sides to take the proper shape. So that's what I was going to do so that the other side at least would be easier to do and also wouldn't have to be fixed up.

This is a view of the back with the back and side skins on. The curve of the side skin doesn't look quite right to me.

Sigh.

From the side view. I am not liking the crease the skin has. I hope I can get it out with a bit of bog and sanding...

To make the top piece I printed out the top panel from the Lespaceplie K-9 Plans. I then glued the printed paper pattern it to a 1mm styrene sheet and then cut it out. I then measured it against the head I had and trimmed it down slightly to fit, then glue it into place.

With the top panel on, I could star gluing the other side skin. It seemed to glue one much easier than the other side and tape the shape a lot better.

K-9 Head, take 3, day 6

2011-02-02T09:00:00.078+11:00

Always worrying what kids can do to a prop when it is around them, I have decided to reinforce the head using fiberglass resin. I have used a plaster's tape, with has an open weave and a sticky side to do the initial reinforcement. The plaster's tape provides more control than regular glass mat, especially in those tight places.

Below is a close up of the reinforced joints.

Now I am trying to skin the side of the head with 1mm styrene. WARNING: THIS IS NOT THE NEXT STEP YOU SHOULD DO!!!! I stuffed up, I admit it! I accidentally got my instructions mixed up because they were not stapled together. So this is what I think the next bit should be:

Skin the bottom and back of the head, as per Page 8 of Dave Everett's instructions.
Add a top section that covers the Inner Bezels and glues to the top of the Back Support Bulkhead (this is a divergent bit from the instructions).
Skin the sides of the head, as per Page 11 of Dave Everett's instructions.

However, I am blogging what I did, so here it is in order...

I glued the front half of the head to the 1mm styrene sheet.

I used a LOT of masking tape and also clamps to keep the styrene to the edges of the head frame.

As one part of the clue cured I moved on further. As the tape was rather tight it would unstick sometimes so I used smaller clamps on the other side to hole the tape under the correct tension.

There were one or two points that needed a bit more glue, but by the end of the day I had a gap at the back, but I didn't know how to attach it to the sides! I needed that back piece that skinned the underside and the back for this to attach to. (Thanks Dave for showing me that I got things the wrong way round). :-)

K-9 Head, take 3, day 5

2011-01-31T09:00:00.028+11:00

With the glue now cured on the Antenna Support pieces, I unbolted and removed the Aluminum Channel pieces. That will be reinstalled again later.

I cut six pieces of 3mm styrene from scrap, each piece being be about 15mm x 30mm. I glued three together to form a 9mm thick styrene piece, then turned the head frame over and glued the two assemblies into place up under the Head Gun Inner Face. These pieces will later be tapped to screw down the top part of the head.

K-9 Head, take 3, day 4

2011-01-30T09:00:00.015+11:00

With the glue set on the Head Gun Inner and Bezel Inner, I added the two Antenna Support pieces. To keep the pieces aligned, I bolted them onto the aluminum channel pieces prior to adding them and then slotted them into place. I am glad I did as the width for the channel pieces was about 1mm too narrow on the Head Base and Internal Real Left and Rear Right pieces. I sanded them gently to fit then glued the Antenna Support pieces. I applied a bit more glue when the first batch had set to make the joint nice and strong.

I glueg in the remaining two Side Support pieces so they are flush against the cutout in the Inner Bezel.

K-9 Head, take 3, day 3

2011-01-27T08:25:00.001+11:00

I am trying to take each step carefully, allowing a few hours for the glue to cure and harden prior to adding another part.

The parts with the glue cured, and ready for more!

In the part below, you can see that I have scored the sides of the Bezel Inner. This is because later that section will have to be removed. It is far easier to score a part on a desk then trying to do it on a prop. :)

Bezel Inner glued to the first two Side Supports. I used a set square to keep the angles at 90°.

I diverge slightly from Dave's instructions here, opting to glue the Bezel Inner to the back of the head (Internal Rear Left/Right), the top of the nose to the front (Head Gun Inner Face), and then join the parts together. This way you know what angle that intersecting glue joint needs to be.

Bezel Inner and Head Gun Inner Face glued together with masking tape and supports removed.

Tomorrow, the neck support and additional head supports. I will probably also add a little glue in areas that need strengthening too. If you ever do this, make sure you only do small sections at a time - if a part is under tension, it may unseal the joint, or make it soft, and you will find that all your hard work is misshapen!

K-9 Head, take 3, day 2

2011-01-24T10:40:00.001+11:00

As I had the parts all cut out, all I would need to do is clean up the edges with a bit of sand paper and chamfer the parts where needed to the appropriate angles (checking it against other parts of course). I still not have found any Weld 3 glue, so I have been using Revell Contacta Professional (from model store) to glue the parts instead. To keep the parts square, I have a good set square, and also some metal guides that hold the parts together till the glue sets. Sometimes a bit of tape has been useful to keep parts together.

Internal Rear Right and Internal Rear Left parts glued to the Head Base. Note chamfer on the Head Base.

Nose Supports glued onto the Head Mouth Face part.

Tape Guides glued for the ticker-tape tongue.

The other-side of the glued parts above, showing the mouth opening.

Rear Supports glued to Internal Rear Right and Internal Rear Left. I had to support the back of these to make sure the weight of them didn't change the internal angle between the internal parts and the Head Base.

You can see the supports clearly here.

Glue has cured and supports were removed.

The other view of the part.

Back Support glued into position against the Rear Supports. I used masking tape to hold the part in place till the glue cured.

While the glue was curing, I chamfered the Nose Face part and glued it against the Nose Supports and Head Moth Face. I used masking tape again to hold the part in place. Then I glued the base of the Head Mouth Face to Head Base. Supports were used to keep the part in place.

Another view of the parts glued.

View from above. With the light fading, I thought it was best to let the glue cure and strengthened over night.

K-9 Head, take 3, day 1

2011-01-23T10:20:00.001+11:00

As I am fortunate to have access to a laser cutter, I laser cut the fiddlier parts of K-9's head, the rest hand cutting it using my trust Olfa knife.

I had also purchased a piece of 20x20x1.5mm aluminium u-channel (purchased from Bunnings) that day, so cut that into the 233mm and 340mm lengths. A drill press helped make sure the holes were aligned front and back. Using a smaller guide drill bit initially, also made sure there was less clean up in the holes. Getting the right sized counter-sunk screws were a pain, and had to go for imperial sided ones (purchased from Mitre-10), but they seem fine. I used four, using a couple washers at the back, and super gluing the bolts tight. Everything was sanded clean and smooth, including the tops of the counter-sunk screws.

Just a little note, I used the Antenna Support pieces as a guide for the location of the screw holes on the actual U-channel, to make sure when it comes to bolting up the neck to the support that all the holes will line up true. Below is the completed Aluminium Neck Assembly.

The start of K-9 head, take 3

2011-01-22T10:12:00.000+11:00

I have been having problems with the constructing the head, and after two attempts with unsatisfactory results, and the new release of Dave Everett's Styrene K9 plans, I have decided to follow Dave's lead and try his head construction. I will try to show how I put it together step by step, taking photos as I went.

K9.replicarobots.net currently down but not out

2011-01-19T12:26:00.003+11:00

The new K-9 Website, http://k9.replicarobots.net/, has been down for a little while now due to a supplier problem. However, the founder Dave Everett is working on getting the site back and running. So don't despair, it will be back! With hope it will be up again soon.

Sylvester McCoy Sweater

2011-01-11T09:26:00.005+11:00

I have been interested in having a Sylvester McCoy Sweater for a number of years now, and recently having improved my knitting skills I thought I would give it a go. However, when I was looking for the design, I came across a group that is attempting to do a second run of professionally made McCoy sweaters. The first run looked very impressive, so I put my name down for it and thought I would share it here, just in case there were more Dr.Who fans, like me, who have been desiring the item.

The link to the sweater and ordering is here or if you message me I can pass on the person's email address to contact them directly.

More K-9 Art - K-9 Love!

2011-01-10T11:49:00.000+11:00

This K-9 cartoon is by Otis Frampton.

Source

Amazing K-9

2011-01-09T11:43:00.000+11:00

Sorry, I just couldn't help myself with the pun!

Ben Morris is an illustrator, and does some fantastic work, including a clever K-9 maze which was in Doctor Who Adventures (issue 135, pages 18-19).

Source

K-9 in Crochet!

2011-01-08T09:52:00.000+11:00

Continuing the pattern of crafty K-9 people, I have found a wonderful design by Meredee, it is K-9 in fillet crochet! She has created two designs, one large and one small. These can be found on her site, or on the images below.

Those on Ravelry, I am sure you can find her their too.

Source

Cute K-9 T-Shirts

2011-01-07T09:45:00.000+11:00

There are more t-shirts with K-9 popping up on the market. Brilliant!

Source

Source

Cardboard K-9

2011-01-06T09:38:00.000+11:00

Impatient to make a full-scale K-9? Here is a fun way to spend an afternoon and build a K-9. It originally featured issue #3 of Doctor Who Adventures Magazine, but an enhanced version can be found at the following link or click on the image below.

Source

K9.replicarobots.net

2011-01-05T10:43:00.004+11:00

If you haven't had a chance to check k9.replicarobots.net out yet, I recommend it. Dave Everett has just added his plans for a styrene K-9, which includes instructions, and the cut-out templates, similar to the styrene R2-D2's. The plans are based on the very accurate Lespaceplie K-9 Plans.

Very soon I will finish the FAQ's for the site, which will include technical information on all TV versions of K-9.

Steampunked K-9 (K-1889)

2011-01-05T09:29:00.002+11:00

It is amazing what can be done with the concept of K-9, and how much the form can be changed and yet stays recognisable. This is a fantastic example – a steampunked K-9.

Artist James Richardson-Brown, who made it for a piece of Doctor Who fan-fiction entitled Time and Tide, created this wonderful work. It looks that he used a Character Options remote control K-9 as the base.

Source

The artist’s site

Simpsons vs Dr. Who

2011-01-04T09:33:00.002+11:00

Dean (Springfield Punx) draws many of his favourite characters in the Simpson’s style and he has done Dr.Who and has even drawn K-9!

So cute!

Source

Kawaii Bento Club's Robot Love Contest

2010-12-16T16:40:00.006+11:00

This is just so cute, I had to post it. What a great combination of my favourite loves - K-9 and sushi! Yet another edible K-9.

K-9 Bento Box

New K-9 Site

2010-12-01T13:34:00.003+11:00

The man who is the founder of the R2 Builders Club, Dave Everett, is setting up a new club, the K-9 Builders Club, based on the R2 club. So far there is a website, but there is more to follow. So if you are into K-9, hop onto the site and check it out.

http://k9.replicarobots.net/

Lack of posts

2010-12-01T13:32:00.001+11:00

Yes, well it is inexcusable my lack of posts, but I have a collection of items ready to put up, so watch this space over the next few weeks. :-)

Ginger Bread K-9!

2009-10-14T13:57:00.003+11:00

I stumbled across this very cool site and just had to share... I am in admiration to the patience of the cook!

Ginger Bread K-9

Tasmanian Sci-Fi Convention 2009

2009-05-14T23:56:00.001+10:00

This weekend I am planning on attending the Tasmanian Sci-Fi convention held at the Wrest Point Casino. I am looking forward to it as I will be able to meet some prop builders there that I have only spoken to on forums on the net for a while. I am sure to learn something and see some great builds :)

More distractions...

2009-05-14T11:41:00.005+10:00

As you can probably tell from the few posts that my attention has been taken else where... I have been tinkering on K-9 at least once a week, but not enough to show a great deal. There are bits and pieces done and he is coming along. Once I do more I will post a photographic journal of how I got the body together. It will make more sense to post it in one go rather than having little dregs now and then.

And so what is my distraction?

Getting a motorcycle license. :)

I have a blog on that too!

Here is a picture of my bike with its brand new "L" plate!

In the News: K9 Back For Sarah Jane Series Three

2009-02-05T12:16:00.001+11:00

From SFX Magazine... Fantastic news!

Thursday February 05, 2009

K9 Back For Sarah Jane Series Three

Sarah Jane Adventures producer Nikki has told Doctor Who magazine that K9 will be back in a big way in the third series of the spin-off show: "We've already got 10 scripts at first draft stage, and I can now announce that K9 is going to make a return to Sarah Jane's attic! He's been locked away in that safe, saving the world from a Black Hole, for far too long now. I can promise that the fun is only just beginning - just wait till he gets to meet Mr Smith properly." He is due to appear in around half of the 12 episodes.

Quite what all this means for the Australian K9 series currently in production is not clear, though clearly the rights situation does allow for K9 to be used in both production. Surely the BBC isn't worried enough to adopt spoiling tactics?

Source: http://www.sfx.co.uk/page/sfx?entry=k9_back_for_for_sarah

In the News: K9 Series Producer Speaks

2009-01-28T12:07:00.005+11:00

From SFX Magazine...

Wednesday January 28, 2009

K9 Se ries Producer Speaks

Above: K9 - due for a regeneration

Paul Tams, the co-creator and associate producer on the K9 series that is being filmed in Australia has spoken to The Doctor Who News Page (aka, Outpost Gallifrey) about how the show is progressing. Apparently there will be 26 half hour episodes and K9 will be achieved both as an practical animatronic prop and using CGI. Tams also promises, "I've made sure that hidden in most episodes fans will spot some nod to the past - either a mention or a visual treat." And, much to everyone's relief, he says that the new look K9 will not look like the cartoony concept art that's been seen doing the rounds on the net. The show should be ready to air in Australia later this year.

Source: http://www.sfx.co.uk/page/sfx?entry=k9_series_producer_speaks

Face Detail

2008-09-29T11:45:00.003+10:00

Here are more stills from Invasion of Time, showing head, mouth and gun detail.

Collar

2008-09-29T11:28:00.005+10:00

I have noticed that the collar tartan does change between stories, but using stills from the story, Invasion of Time, I have been able to match at least one collar tartan to the Buchanan Modern Tartan. I have, however, noticed that the Ancient version of the tartan is used in several other versions of the collar. I am not sure if other tartans are used, people with a Scottish/ Celtic background could tell me better, but that is what I have noticed. Also sometimes the collars look faded on the outside, but you can tell the original tartan must have been brighter by looking at the rim and inner part of the collar.
With that information, and tracking down a little shop in NSW (Scottish Accessories Shop, Croydon) that sells tartans, I bought a tartan scarf that I will use for the collar. The scarf is such a lovely woolen fabric I dread to cut it!!

SportBEC Switch-mode Battery Eliminator Circuit

2008-09-28T14:10:00.003+10:00

I have a battery, I have the motors, I have a speed controller, but I need something that can get power to the the servos efficiently and without frying them. I have chosen to go with the SportBEC option. Here is a little about it... And it is a tiny part, I must say!!!

SportBEC (Battery Eliminator Circuit) powers your receiver and servos much more efficiently than a standard BEC. As many as 8 servos can be powered without worrying about an overheating BEC. SportBEC works great up to very high voltages, and is especially suited for "sport" aircraft and glow conversions. SportBEC is usually a necessity at 4s and above when running high torque or digital servos.

SportBEC's output is selectable between 5V/6V using a small slide switch. The 6V setting gives more speed and torque to the servos, and is especially useful for helicopter flyers. A red LED indicates when 6V is selected.

We use these BECs in our robots for powering our control systems that have high current demands. We will hook up IP cameras, wireless bridges, microcontrollers, etc. and the BEC has no problem with the current demand. Great source for servos too. Since its a switching supply we eliminate the need for multiple batteries, we run everything off of a single 24V source using the BECs for the control and servos instead of having a separate battery or batteries.

Because it is an efficient switching regulator, SportBEC can supply its full rated current of 3.5A all the way up to 33.6VDC.

Many design hours were spent on SportBEC to ensure it does not create radio interference. It uses a shielded inductor and optimized layout, so you can use it without fear of glitching.

SportBEC installs between your ESC and receiver, so you don't have to modify your speed control to disable its internal BEC.

For best results, ensure that the SportBEC is installed at least 2 inches away from your receiver and antenna.

Additional notes: If you are using small servos make sure they can run at 6v. Some sub-micros, notably the Hitec HS-50 and Futaba S3154, can be damaged by a 6v supply.

For even more information about the SportBEC go here or here...

I have uploaded some information about the SportBEC, including the manuals, so it doesn't vanish like so many things on the web do...

A Beginners Guide to Switching Regulators.doc

A Beginners Guide to Switching Regulators.pdf

Using an External BEC on multiple models.pdf

Neck Tube

2008-09-27T12:50:00.000+10:00

The neck has been a bit of a problem for me for a while, and reading the forums I knew that it would be an issue. The original diameter was 5 1/4". There is a couple of stories of what the neck material is on the hero prop...

The usual one the you hear is that is a style of ducting tubing.

The second, and more recent that I have heard, is that it was a rubber gaiter from a tractor. This is a quote from a recent post on the Doctor Who Prop Builder Guild... Thanks Phil!

"I was talking to Matt Irvine at the NSC a couple of months ago and he said the original prop used a gaiter from an old tractor or bit of agricultural equipment - he wasn't sure which as he didn't build the original prop." - Phil

Knowing that they used a Mini steering boot for the tail bushing, it is very possible that the latter is true. However, the former is easier to get hold of... At least for now...
I headed off to the Purple Pig (a place in Hobart that probably sells the largest range of hoses) and bought a half meter length of rubberised ducting tubing that the guy at the shop thought was the closest to my reference images.
Sadly it is only 5" in diameter because they have stopped making the 5 1/4" ones many years ago, but that 1/4" shouldn't make too much difference. The chap ended up giving my a trade discount because he liked the idea of the build so much! :-D
A big thanks to Sarah for holding the tube during the photos!

Let There Be Light

2008-09-26T12:39:00.001+10:00

Another thing I bought recently was the Knight Rider LED kit that came in a little while ago, well actually two kits from Active Electronics. I have also bought the coloured high bright LEDs from Oatley Electronics to replace the dimmer red ones that come in the kit. From Jaycar I bought LED mounts for 5mm LEDs. I have started building one already...
As mentioned before, one kit is destined to light up the control panel, the other one will light up the false panel that I am planning.

New bits

2008-09-25T12:27:00.005+10:00

Over the last few months I have been hunting for parts for K-9 and here is what I have found…

A few posts ago I mentioned that I had bought some windscreen wiper motors. Here they are cleaned and stripped next to a 12V sealed motor cycle battery.
The steel turn arm was removed by clamping tightly the turn arm in a vice, getting a friend to help hold onto the motor to prevent it turning as I undid the nut. They are well fixed on!! The brass mounting was removed by removing the small nuts using socket spanner.
A bit of CRC was used to ease the nuts off as they had welded on over time. All nuts and bots were retained for future mounting. Then with some more CRC the motor was thoroughly cleaned up.
Just for all you car boffins out there... Here is a photo of what they would have looked like in the original car...
And this is what I sort of hope to achieve with them, like Robert's K-9.

Totem in The Age

2008-09-24T14:38:00.005+10:00

As mentioned in the last post, I have put a piece for Totem. Well, The Age newspaper has written an article about it... It can be found directly on their site...

Oh, you inscrutable doll

September 20, 2008

More than 120 artists' dolls will soon be on display at Federation Square, writes Frances Atkinson.

Sayraphim Lothian with Rachel Hughes' bald calico dolls that are part of the Totem installation.
Photo: Roger Cummins

THERE ARE TWO Sayraphim Lothians. One has pale skin, shiny hair and large eyes, the other has shiny hair, large eyes and pale green fur. "I'm so happy with it," the real Lothian says, gently stroking the little monster's hair.

The creature sitting quietly in the corner represents a part of Lothian she'd rather not talk about in detail. "I suppose she represents my own insecurities. She's a monster who is trying to fit into human society. She's wearing a handmade dress and has jewellery that doesn't quite match."

The furry doll is part of Totem, an installation made up of more than 120 dolls that will fill the hollow walls of the atrium at Federation Square as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival.

Lothian approached artists from Australia and around the world and asked them to create a doll with soul - a piece that "reflected their inner identities". A few found the question so personal they couldn't commit to the project, but many others found the idea of creating a doll that embodies some aspect of themselves an irresistible challenge.

Lothian describes herself as an art mercenary who works in television, film and theatre. She's also a graphic and web designer who is happy to do anything artistic, providing she's paid for it:

"Which is basically what most artists do to prevent working in call centres." Lothian also worked as a puppet technician on Spike Jonze's yet-to-be-released film Where the Wild Things Are, based on Maurice Sendak's classic children's book of the same name.

At her headquarters, the Auspicious Arts Incubator in Southbank, Lothian's studio resembles a surreal mail centre where packages in brown paper and bubble wrap of assorted sizes take up every inch of space. There's a Frida Kahlo-inspired skeleton, a traditional-looking doll with a fabric cigarette hanging from its mouth, a brightly coloured, papier-mache doll featuring Andy Warhol's face.

The latest arrivals are on the desk. One is a small sculpture of a rabbit with large belly, protruding front teeth and what Lothian suspects are real whiskers. It hangs on to a smaller bunny doll, in the same manner a toddler might grasp a favourite toy: upside down, by one leg.

Lothian said the artist, American Carisa Swenson, was initially worried Australian audiences might not like the doll because of our prejudice against rabbits and the damage they can do to the environment. Lothian doesn't really know what Swenson is trying to convey with her doll, but adds, "I'm fine with that. I don't try and interpret them too much." But, she adds, "all art is personal because it comes through this filter of their own experiences".

Of course, dolls don't always equate with sweet. In his book A Room Full of Toys, Alberto Manguel observes, "The body of a doll is always slightly disturbing." He might well be talking about a piece submitted for the project by Melbourne artist Jon Beinart entitled bubbapilla - a stack of five headless baby dolls which are connected with only one head at the top.

With each set of arms and legs pointing to the front, it does resemble a bizarre baby/caterpillar hybrid that is undeniably strange and beautiful. In contrast, artist Madeleine Hoxley drew on her science background to create a free-form quilted skeleton that's anatomically correct. Black stitching provides the shading while caffeine-coloured fabric helps promote a creamy, bone-like pallor.

One of the most captivating pieces is by American artist Beth Robinson. Her doll, about 45 centimetres tall, is a woman wearing a dress made from vintage fabric. She has long, dark hair, a hank of Robinson's own locks, and four arms. One set reaches up to her head in despair or frustration, the other holds tiny dressmaker's pins and a black voodoo doll. Her eyes are entirely silver - sightless and watchful at the same time.

Via email, Robinson says, "I spent a lot of time thinking about who I am as an artist and a person and how the two work together to create me."

No less curious are five large bald dolls made out of simple calico by Melbourne artist Rachel Hughes. Delivered in a woven basket, each face is delicately painted in muted colours. Lothian suspects they are partly a self-portrait of Hughes and each of her four sisters. "I think they're incredible," says Lothian. "Every choice an artist makes tells you something about them."

While some of the pieces are as far removed from a prosthesis-coloured Barbie or pimped-up Bratz doll that you can get, many are influenced by traditional doll-makers. Lothian said she was inspired to create Totem partly because of her own childhood connections with dolls.

Her grandmother Marj was a member of the CWA and spent a lifetime creating dolls for Lothian and her sister. "She knew about the project but developed dementia and died early this year, so I've dedicated Totem to her memory."

Melbourne artist Jade Burstall is making a documentary about Totem that will run on a large screen during the exhibition. "'I'm not a crafty person but I got on board because I was drawn to the idea of dolls with souls. The installation process will take Lothian two days to complete and Burstall plans to capture much of it on film.

The project has also inspired debate between artists about the nature and craft of making dolls, and the process of transformation that turns a doll into a work of art. Lothian believes environment has a lot do with it.

"Some dolls are clearly not playthings. Most of the dolls in Totem are one-of-a-kind art dolls." However, Lothian hopes audiences will connect with the installation. "Totem is not just about self-identity, it's like a vox pop of how a section of society see themselves. Each doll has been created using a wide range of techniques that showcase how varied the craft can be."

Totem will be on exhibition at the Fracture Galleries, the atrium, Federation Square, city, September 25-October 12. www.melbournefringe.com.au

The Age is a sponsor of the Melbourne Fringe Festival.

This story was found at: http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2008/09/18/1221331043429.html

Distractions...

2008-09-24T11:54:00.010+10:00

I haven't posted for a while now, not because I haven't done anything to my K-9, or done anything Dr.Whoey, but I have been distracted by other things that have taken some time from the build and posting... Here are some of the works that have distracted me...

My doll is made of copper wire, piano wire and clay for the Totem exhibition 24 Sep - 13 Nov at the Fractures Gallery, Federations Square, Melbourne.

I also have a couple pieces in the GLC exhibition 19 Sep - 2 Oct at the Moonah Arts Centre. I managed to sell the photo on opening night :-)

Touching the Well

Image Details:
Digital photograph (Sony α 100, f/5.0, ISO 400, focal length: 30.0mm, hand-held, unflashed), printed on archival professional photographic paper, digitally laminated and block-mounted.

Artist’s Statement:
In this image, a smooth, delicate and feminie hand reaches out, seeking something within the moving, dark water. Hands are important in the sharing of love: literally, in terms of sensuality and touch and symbolically, in the display of commitment and marriage (i do).
Hands are also used to worship, to pray and to display reverence. People raise their hands to God and count beads with their fingers as they pray. Holding the hand of a loved one can be a type of worship (idol).
Hands have always been, like faces, an important way to identify someone. We each have unique handprints, handwriting and artistic/creative style (i.d.).

Homo gynoides sp.

Artist’s Statement:
Technology is a mask that veils our true selves from the modern world. Though technology is meant to help us in our every day lives, increase our senses and stimulate us, instead it forms a barrier reducing our social interaction and awareness of our surroundings.

The mask has had putty to reshape it, an additional head section put in using card and papier-mâché, it has been strengthened using papier-mâché, had electronic components (mostly from old hard-drives and CD drives) glued, screwed and hacked into her face, and some wire added. The black is a back gesso primer.

Dry brushed. This is a two coat dry brush, the first is using Jo Sonja's Rose Gold metallic paint, and then the second is the Rose Gold mixed with equal parts with Chroma Cadmium Red to produce a more vivid red.

Varnished using a satin artist's varnish and wires added. The eyes have been fixed in and battery pack soldered. The front of the battery pack has got a layer of red holographic tape over it that shines through the mouth to create "teeth".

And finally... The mask with its lights on!

Sabertooth

2008-07-09T11:16:00.008+10:00

Here is a little about the Sabertooth 25A system I am getting. A bit of overkill, but I have read in a few places that under stress that wiper motors can produce 30A peak current! So I don't want to take any risks.

The Sabertooth 2X25 is one of the most versatile, efficient and easy to use dual motor drivers on the market. It is suitable for high powered robots - up to 100lbs in combat or 300lbs for general purpose robotics.

Out of the box, the Sabertooth can supply two DC brushed motors with up to 25A each. Peak currents of 50A per channel are achievable for a few seconds.

Overcurrent and thermal protection means you'll never have to worry about killing the driver with accidental stalls or by hooking up too big a motor.

Sabertooth allows you to control two motors with: analog voltage, radio control, serial and packetized serial. You can build many different robots of increasing complexity for years to come with a Sabertooth. Sabertooth has independent and speed + direction operating modes, making it the ideal driver for differential drive (tank style) robots and more.

The operating mode is set with the onboard DIP switches so there are no jumpers to lose. Sabertooth features screw terminal connectors - making it possible for you to build a robot without even soldering.

Sabertooth is the first synchronous regenerative motor driver in its class. The regenerative topology means that your batteries get recharged whenever you command your robot to slow down or reverse. Sabertooth also allows you to make very fast stops and reverses - giving your robot a quick and nimble edge.

Sabertooth has a built in 5V BEC that can provide power to a microcontroller or R/C receiver. The lithium cutoff mode allows Sabertooth to operate safely with lithium ion and lithium polymer battery packs - the highest energy density batteries available.

Sabertooth's transistors are switched at ultrasonic speeds (32kHz) for silent operation.

Sabertooth 2X25 uses 1.3 milliohm MOSFETs in its bridge. Going by other's ridiculous rating schemes this would make it a dual 190A motor driver!

Model:	Sabertooth 2X25
Specifications:	25A continuous, 50A peak per channel. Synchronous regenerative drive Ultra-sonic switching frequency Thermal and overcurrent protection Lithium protection mode Input modes: Analog, R/C, simplified serial, packetized serial Size: 2.6” x 3.2” x .8” 65 x 80 x 20 mm Weight: 96g / 3.5oz
Applications:	Combat robots up to 100lb Normal and hobby robots up to 300lb Differential drive robots Electric vehicles, ride-on toys, scooters Easy speed/direction control for pumps, conveyors, automation and any application that uses two brushed DC motors

For more even more about the Sabertooth, you can go here and here

I have uploaded some information about the Sabertooth, including the manuals, so it doesn't vanish like so many things on the web do...

Sabertooth 2x25 QuickStart.doc
Sabertooth 2x25 QuickStart.pdf
Sabertooth 2x25 Manual.doc
Sabertooth 2x25 Manual.pdf
Motor Drive Efficiency Comparison Test.pdf

Knight Rider

2008-07-08T11:10:00.002+10:00

I have received a message that the "Knight Rider" LED kits are ready for me to pick up. I am going to that today at lunch from Active Electronics in town.

This morning I ordered my motor controller. There will probably be a customs delay of a weeks or two, but shouldn't be too much longer than that. I am getting a Sabertooth dual 25A motor driver from Robot Parts, an Australian online store for robot parts funnily enough.

Wiper motors

2008-06-27T17:38:00.003+10:00

I finally found a place that sells wiper motors in Hobart that have a long shaft! Yeah! :-) Sadly though I couldn't find a left and right motor and will have to flip one over and reverse the polarity to make one run.
I found the motors at a wreckers - Moonah Auto Salvage, and they are a pair of KF Ford Laser wiper motors, all rather greasy and muddy. If you had to pay for plastic bags, you would with these motors!! I need to clean them up at least a little before even testing them. In the photo I have already wiped them down a bit. Still, they were only $44 for the pair, so I shan't complain!

Push buttons

2008-06-25T13:33:00.005+10:00

I looked near and far, but I seemed to have run out of luck with finding the push buttons. Either they were really expensive (about $20 each) or that they had run out of the lens colours that I needed. So I have decided to go for cutting the "buttons" out myself out of acrylic sheet using a laser cutter that I have access to.
As I have translucent red for the eyes, I did not need that, I just needed a translucent yellow, blue, and green. I also wanted a translucent white, which in the plastics industry they cal "Pearl" and is commonly used in shower screens. Yesterday I went to Eagle Plastics and gave a lovely gentleman my order, and today I have four sheets of acrylic of various colours 15x15 cm for only $5!

Yesterday I also went to the neighbouring store, which is a specialise electronics store called Active Electronics. They are a dealer for Altronics based in Perth. I bought 6m of rainbow 16 strand cable for $8.10 for the 6m and also ordered two "Knight Rider" LED kits to illuminate the buttons on the back of K-9's panel and also a false panel I am planning on making.This is what they say about it:

(SC May ’02) This little LED chaser kit is super easy to build and provides a bright addition to any shop display or vehicle. It features 32 bright LED’s which glow red. Built into it’s PIC micro controller are 12 patterns which can be selected at the press of a button. Speed is adjustable via an on board trimpot.

Requires 12VDC supply

Features

• 12 switch selectable light patterns
• Adjustable pattern speed
• Adjustable LED brightness
• 2 pattern medleys

The K-9 Poll

2008-06-05T15:34:00.002+10:00

By popular demand, the K-9 poll is back! :-) So for all those people who wanted to vote, now you can.

Oh, and by the way, the John Leeson photo has arrived in all it's glory! The gold pen of the signature looks great, I have to get it framed now! The postage was shocking, but I am very happy to have it :-)

A little bit nerdy!

2008-05-16T10:54:00.000+10:00

I came across a signed photo by John Leeson of K-9 on eBay and very late last night I won it! With a little help from a friend, Niall, it will be sent from the UK, and I can't wait.
It is very nerdy, I know, but John Leeson was my favourite voice actor of K-9. He sort of was K-9.The photo is 6 by 8" and has a COA. I have included the image from eBay.

The Comparison

2008-04-15T10:30:00.012+10:00

These RS handles pictured here are now the closest match to the K-9 prop available now, or so I have found in my research. The original handles use to be sold as "Industrial Unit" handles by RS. The current ones available are very similar, but not quite the same. Sadly the RS websites no longer carry an image of the handles or additional data on them, which makes me wonder if they are reducing their stock. However, there is an image in their paper catalogue.

RS Australia

RS Stock No.: 221-320
Manufacturer's part number: MG.01.99.01
Page : 1 - 1632

Attributes

Attribute Type	Attribute Value
Type	Handle
External Length	98mm
External Width	12mm
External Height	28mm
Material	Aluminium

This is an image of the handle from the the TV prop of the rusty version of K-9. I am still hunting for a good image of an early version of the prop to post, but when I do I will add it too so you can see it. The front seems to be a bit flatter and squarer than the current RS handle, as if the face has been ground off slightly. Not sure what it is like in real life, if the angles are as sharp. It is one of the reasons why I went for the handle I did, it is angular like this one, but without the expense of the current RS handles ($AU28.20 plus shipping!). I know mine are a little more rounded internally but I don't think it will matter that much once painted. I hope!

Handles

2008-04-10T14:00:00.013+10:00

As the RS handles are very expensive and hard to get hold of if you don't own a credit card, I am going to be using the following handles on my K-9. I have noticed that several other people have used very similar ones too. These ones were from Mitre 10. They look very close to the RS ones. I will post an image and specs of the RS shortly.

The clear plastic bag that the handles come in have a white sticker on the outside with a barcode and description: "Handle brush nickel 96 mm 9995483R" and they are by Hettich International.

Bad Back

2008-04-08T10:17:00.003+10:00

Unfortunately, at the start of March, I slipped a disk in my back, which was rather painful. Not only physically, but mentally as it stopped my doing so many things I loved, like building my K-9. I was forced to down my tools and take up lighter activities for a while, like knitting and reading. Sadly my knitting isn't good enough to knit a K-9, but I did think about it!! I knitted little egg beanies instead and the start of a scarf. Hmm... I could knit K-9 a scarf...? No that might be a bit silly.

Feeling quite a bit better now, I am going to start tinkering again in my spare time, which I have been itching to do so. So you might see some action on this blog again soon (finally!) ;-)

Multimeter

2008-01-02T10:43:00.001+11:00

As I have been slowly gathering parts and also tools (as I few tools to start off with), I have come to the stage that I have had to get a multimeter. I asked my sister who works for Disk Smith Electronics what would be best to get, and she actually recommended that it would be better to go to Jaycar Electronics, the rival electronics company! That made me laugh.

I should have known thought that as soon as I mentioned my K-9 build to her my sister would relay it to my mum and then my mum would relay it to my dad. I was worried that they would think it was a waste of time and money. Perhaps they do, but they didn't mention it, instead my dad said that he had a professional multimeter that I could have! It will cover all my needs, and even if I would want to test my house electrical supply -- not that I do (and all you kids out there, don't you go trying it either! Electrocution isn't fun!).

It will be arriving in the post this Friday, together with a poppy seed cake :-) Yummy!

K-9's 30th Anniversary DWM Special

2007-11-29T15:44:00.001+11:00

"Happy 30th Birthday K9!" says the front page in the current issue 388 of Doctor Who Magazine. The magazine is focused on K-9's 30th Anniversary with several pages on K-9. There is also an article on the Sarah Jane Adventures which I am always sad that he isn't present in. There are a few reference shots of K-9 in the magazine, but sadly not many. There are larger and better photos of Catherine Tate... Grr..

The DWM Website

This is what their web-page said about the issue...

Issue no: Issue #388
Release Date: Thursday 18th October 2007
Pricing: UK £3.99 , US $7.99, AU$13.50

Doctor Who Magazine - Issue #388 DWM Press Release

Elisabeth Sladen, star of ‘The Sarah Jane Adventures’, talks exclusively to Doctor Who Magazine about her brand new series...

“When Russell first suggested ‘Sarah Jane Adventures’, I wondered where they could take her, but she’s opened up and I’ve absolutely relished that. I loved that period of finding things in Sarah Jane, and it’s all come back. I’m so pleased.”

Lis also reveals more about forthcoming stories, including the series’ dramatic conclusion, ‘The Lost Boy’…

“All hell breaks loose! Sarah Jane tries to do the right thing, but then someone shows her something… and it’s not the right thing. There’s someone else who knows about the shenanigans in the attic. And Sarah Jane gets the shock of her life, too!”

Also in the issue, there’s exclusive access to the set of Series Four’s Roman episode with director Colin Teague; new companion Catherine Tate chats about Donna, Daleks and difficult crowds; K9’s birthday is celebrated as the magazine looks back fondly over 30 years of the Doctor’s metal pooch; actor Noel Clarke reveals what happened when he met the Daleks; the Doctor and Martha are deep in trouble in Part 3 of their latest comic strip adventure ‘The First’; acclaimed writer Steven Moffat talks candidly about who he fancies, childhood hobbies and what makes him cross as he plucks questions from Out of the TARDIS tin; and executive producer Russell T Davies writes about the Things You Don’t Write in Production Notes.

All this, plus the latest exclusive news on the new series, plus reviews, DVD previews and competitions.

http://www.drwho-online.co.uk/DWM/DWM.htm

K-9 Units

2007-08-13T13:48:00.001+10:00

Today in my lunch hour I was surfing the net, checking to see if there were any new cool images of K-9 out there. I stumbled across a couple sites in the US for Police K-9 Units, where they use dogs to help them fight crime. I just loved the t-shirts they had, they made me laugh. I looked to see if I could get one, but sadly they are only available in the US. The same goes for the badge. Perhaps I might have to screen my own when I have time. First I better get me K-9 done! :-D

Doctor Who Night At the ABC Store

2007-08-10T11:32:00.001+10:00

Tonight is an exciting night. Not only am I going to an art gallery opening that has two of my pieces in it, but there is a Doctor Who night at one of the local ABC stores here in Hobart! The ABC store are running quizzes, and contests including a drawing competition… Of course I couldn’t help but enter… Oh, it is like living in UK in the 70’s with all that is going on in Doctor Who here now, or at least like from what I have read and always dreamed I could have lived through.

Tonight the shop is also showing off the new radio controlled K-9’s for sale. I am guessing from the price that they are the ¼ scale ones, but it will be good to see them. I am tempted to get one myself, but I have to save up for more bits for my full-sized mutt!

Here is a close up of what I entered…

Logo

2007-07-20T17:21:00.001+10:00

After seeing the R2-D2 websites with their cool logo of the droid it inspired me to make a K-9 logo. Here is the base sketch before I put it into Illustrator. I hope to get it done this weekend. He will have a red paint-brush style stripe through his eyes, similar to what R2 has but in blue.

Confusion!

2007-07-17T12:41:00.001+10:00

When I started trying to find about Foamex, I was getting a little confused on the web… It seems there is another material that is called Foam-X but it isn’t the same stuff as Foamex! Then when I went to signwriters they were asking me if I wanted foamcore or foamboard (sometimes just by description) and I had to learn very quickly the differences so I didn’t get the wrong thing. I ended up doing a bit of extra research and coming up with this summary sheet. It is an amalgamation of stuff from Wiki, a few signwriters forums, a cool site about Sintra that I give a link below, together with a few things I have found myself.

Closed-cell PVC foamboard
(Foam PVC, Trevacel, Simona, Foamex, Forex, Sintra, Paylite)

Closed-cell PVC foamboard is a light-weight rigid material used primarily in the manufacture of signs and displays, although its material properties have made it extremely popular among model makers and prop builders. Like PVC, closed-cell PVC foamboard is solid and has a very rigid structure. Where it differs is in its closed-cell foam structure, which makes it very light (up to half the weight of solid PVC), highly resistant to moisture and some chemicals, and very easy to cut and shape (similar to balsa). It also has thermoplastic properties, and begins to soften at around 65°C. Typically, closed-cell PVC foamboard can be cut softened and shaped by immersing in boiling water or with a standard heat gun, and painted with standard automobile paints.

Alcan Composites produces closed-cell PVC foamboard under the trade-name Sintra®.

Good sites for information about closed-cell PVC foamboard/Foamex/Sintra and how to use it…

Sintra Data/Handling Sheets

Foamboard

Foamboard is a type of display board made primarily with foam. It generally consists of a foam core in between two sheets of thin, rigid paper; and is characterized by its light weight, and the ease with which it is scored.

Foam board comes in thicknesses of millimetres to inches, and sizes up to the size of a small wall. It is often used as a display board or poster board, and for making models of buildings and objects. Unlike closed-cell PVC foamboard, standard foamboard is not resistant to the elements as the paper disintegrated with water.

Foamcore

Foamcore is a strong lightweight, easily cut material useful for backing, mounting photographic prints, framing, 3D design and painting. It consists of three layers — an inner layer of Styrofoam®, clad with outer facing of either a white claycoated paper or brown Kraft paper.

The original white foamcore board was made in 1/8 inch (3 mm) and 3/16 inch (5 mm) thicknesses for the graphic arts industry by Monsanto under the trade name Fome-Cor. The surface of the regular board is slightly acidic. For archival photo purposes Monsanto produces a neutral, acid-free version. Similar products are now available from competitors in a wide range of sizes and thicknesses.

This material does not hold up well to some glues, such as superglue, and certain types of paint. The foam tends to melt away and dissolve. While Elmer's White glue works well in casual settings, the water in the glue can warp the fibres in the outer layers. Best results are typically obtained from the higher-end spray adhesives like 3M's Super 77. In situations where a craft store is either not nearby or closed, a hot glue gun can be used as a substitute, although the low viscosity of hot glues can show up in finished projects with board warp, bubbles, or other unsightly blemishes.

Building Material for the Body

2007-06-22T13:26:00.001+10:00

What to make the body out of? That was a hard decision. Most people on the forums choose MDF, even though it does produce a lovely smooth finish with less sanding than other materials I dislike the material on the weight factor, not to mention the dust is highly toxic.

Fibreglass? Well, you need a good mould and I haven’t worked with it before so I am rather hesitant to start with such a major project when not having a proper workshop, and one with good ventilation.

Plywood? I was thinking seriously about this material. It is lighter than MDF but there is a lot mucking about with the finish. I have worked on a plywood model before, so at least I had the experience.

Then I came across a material on the Dalek Builders’ Guild, foamex, also known as sintra, and closed-cell PVC foamboard, amongst other things.

Dalek Builders' Guild post on foamex K-9

This material is lighter than MDF, but has that smooth exterior. It is easier to cut, and can be cut using a craft knife. The only problem was with the material, where to find it Tasmania!!? It took me three months, but I got there in the end, finding it from a company called Pool Signs from North Hobart.

Pool Signs

I bought…

One sheet of 3mm Foamex board 2400 x 1200 @ $92.00 per sheet
Two sheets of 5mm Foamex board 2400 x 1200 @ $134.00 per sheet.

As the sheets were so huge, I had them cut in half (1200 x 1200) and delivered (another $20). It comes to $380 for the body material, but I don’t think I will use it all up. Actually I think I have enough for another project of some kind!!

There is a funny story when I was going to get the sheets… The Phil, the manager, asked me what I was going to do with it all. I said I was building a model over email and the phone and he wanted me to elaborate.

“Do you know the TV show Dr. Who?” I asked him

He beamed. He turned to his wife, also working at the firm. “Call my ‘phone.” He said to her. She did so, and it started up with the Dr. Who theme playing loudly.

Not only was there one excited Dr. Who fan there, but it seemed the whole team was interested in my project. I didn’t feel so geeky anymore. So once I am done I have promised to visit them to show it off. Later they helped me take the sheets to my office where I am doing most of the work.

Acrylic Sheet

2007-06-21T13:27:00.001+10:00

This week I have been hunting down for acrylic sheet (perspex or similar) for K-9's eye's and also side panel. So I needed a transparent red material (3mm/ 1/8") for the eyes, preferably a deep red, and a clear for the side panel. I tried looking on the online directory for where to go... I swear it is getting worse by the day to find something! Supposedly there was nothing in Tasmania that sold the material. This was suspicious to me. I tried just a general web search... Same thing. Instead I came across a couple of companies that sold to the public and I inquired tentatively how much would it be to get the stuff to Tasmania. The reply was...

"Minimum order: $50 + GST + Freight"

!!! I wasn't expecting it to be that much. On the forum they recommend to use a red acrylic clipboard. Unfortunately, the fashion is not for red but for fluro pink and orange, so that was out.

A friend of mine at work knows a lot of industrial type places recommended to me a local place, Eagle Plastics in North Hobart. In the evening, the same place was recommended by an art friend of mine. So today at lunch I drove through the icy streets of Hobart to get to the place and was rewarded by a very friendly man with just the right sort of acrylic sheet I was after. He even gave me advice on how to join two faces together. And the price... Only $10 for both the transparent red and clear! Just goes to show it is so much better to ask around and to shop locally :-)

The Background

2007-06-20T13:15:00.000+10:00

It is over a year now since I committed myself to building a full-sized replica of K-9 from Dr.Who and it has been a slow process and a big learning curve for me. I have been reading up lots on robotics, materials, and also the history of K-9. I now have a large folio of material, together with some books, at home that helps guide me and I still don't have a dog to show for it. However, I do have a lot of parts and knowledge. I hope to put down some of what I have done so far here for people to access in the future if the want to build a K-9 too. I will also list how much things have been costing along the way... I know it will be scary in the end, but it will be a good thing for people to know if they want to get into a project like this one.

A major site that I have been visiting over this last year is The Doctor Who Prop Builder's Club, and a must for anyone to join if they want to start this project.

For the best plans of K-9 around:

Lespaceplie K-9 Plans