Other Props • Re: Replicating a GB2 background prop (warning: deep dive)

Here's what I've come up with so far (told you it was going to be a smaller version!):


There's going to be a main box/enclosure, and then two faceplates bolted to it (probably with black thumbscrews).

The upper panel will contain two rows of three 4-digit LED segments, as well as two toggle switches.
Something like this:


The lower panel contains three flashing light grids which should replicate the blinking sequence in the film, as well as a smaller control panel on the left side:


I've designed this so both panels (and probably the enclosure) can be laser cut out of MDF and/or acrylic, and I should be able to etch the text/diagrams into them as well. 3D printed bezels will surround the LED segments and light grids too. I'll be deviating from the original on the small lower left control panel, it will be a separate plate which bolts onto the front (making it something I can swap out as needed). I haven't yet decided what will go there, but I'm thinking it'll be at least one push button, one or two toggle switches, and the "alert" button can be replaced with a cable port. Potentially a panel mounted aviation connector so we can plug additional devices into this.

First mockup of the pieces:


I can't read the text on the original prop so I just made up some technical sounding jargon, threw in a couple of Apollo references just for my own entertainment.

I've tested some LEDs and decided to go with warm white:

Probably going to use an HT16K33 module to run them, I've got plenty of those laying around and I2C keeps the wiring to a minimum.

7 Segment displays work nicely too:


There's still a lot to figure out, and right now other projects have jumped ahead in priority over this one. But so far it's been an enjoyable process, and I can't wait to get stuck into it again!

Statistics: Posted by prodestrian — February 14th, 2025, 4:40 am

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