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APMM QuarterlyNewsletter of the Association of Professional Model Makers
2010 Conference UpdatePlanning for the next biennial
APMM conference continues
as a special “Pecha Kucha Night”
for rapid-prototyping is being
explored. p.2
Vincent Ruggio: APMM’s Youngest MemberA young model maker and architect in the making. p.4
Tips for Brilliantly ShinyThin Film Finishes
Achieve the best shine and
reflectivity. p.6
Odds and Ends:
“A Beginner's Guide to
Creative Effects for Your
Model Railroad”
book review p.9
Tidbits: Miscellany p.10
SUMMER 2009
INSIDE…2010 APMM Conference
and Pecha Kucha Night p.2
Meet Vincent Ruggio p.4
Like shiny objects? p.6
“Creative Effects” book review p.9
Fun and more:
Tidbits p.10
Employment p.11
OUTSIDE…3D Printing in Steel
Popular Sciencehttp://www.popsci.com/diy/article/2009-08/3-d-printing-now-stainless-steel
DNA +: Water and Wind Competition Deadline: October 30, 2009http://stellafane.org/convention/2009/index.html
Trends in Aerospace Manufacturing 2009 International ConferenceSept. 9&10, 2009
Sheffield, Englandhttp://www.tram-conference.co.uk/
Designfest 2009: Guadalajara, Mexico October 15-17
http://www.design-fest.com/
Check out more APMM news online:www.modelmakers.org/mc/page.do?sitePageId=73203&orgId=apmm
Copyright 1997-2009, Association of Professional Model Makers, All Rights Reserved.
P.O. Box 165 * Hamilton, NY 13346
Toll-Free Phone: 877.663.APMM (2766) * Fax: 877.765.6950 * Contact Us
SUMMER 2009APMM Quarterly
Some Pecha Kucha Night Cities:
Amsterdam
Asheville
Athens
Atlanta
Bali
Bangalore
Bangkok
Barcelona
Beijing
Beirut
Belfast
Belgrade
Berlin
Bilbao
Boston
Brisbane
Brussels
Budapest
Buenos Aires
Buffalo
Cape Town
Chicago
Christchurch
Cincinnati
Cleveland
Columbus
Copenhagen
Dayton
Delhi
Denver
Detroit
Dubai
Biennial APMM Conference 2010 Update
Pecha Kucha Night:
A Creative Forum in 219 Cities Around the World May Be Part of the 2010 APMM Conference
For the 2010 APMM Conference, Bruce
Willey, the Conference VP, and the rest of
the APMM Board are working to schedule a
Pecha Kucha Night focused on rapid-
prototyping.
What is a Pecha Kucha Night?
“Each presenter is allowed 20 images, each
shown for 20 seconds each - giving 6
minutes 40 seconds of fame before the next
presenter is up. This keeps presentations
concise, the interest level up, and gives
more people the chance to show.” -pecha-
kucha.org
Co-hosting, Pecha Kucha Night Boston
and APMM would include APMM presenters
plus several presenters from the 1500
creative members of Pecha Kucha Boston.
We think you won't want to miss this event!
You might want to attend a Pecha Kucha
night in a city near you to expand your
creative contacts. To learn more about
Pecha Kucha Boston check out their
website: http://www.pecha-
kucha.org/cities/boston. Watch Pecha
Kucha clips on YouTube by going to
www.youtube.com and putting in search the
words “Pecha Kucha Night”.
p.2
Dublin
Edinburgh
Florence
Frankfurt
Fresno
Glasgow
Hamburg
Helsinki
Hong Kong
Honolulu
Houston
Indianapolis
Istanbul
Jacksonville
Johannesburg
Kuwait City
Lisbon
London
Los Angeles
Luxembourg
Melbourne
Mexico City
Miami
Milan
Milwaukee
St. Paul
Montreal
Mumbai
Munich
Nagano
Naples
New Orleans
New York
Oslo
Paris
Philadelphia
Phoenix
Pittsburgh
Portland, OR
Prague
Providence
Reykjavik
Rome
Rotterdam
Sacramento
San Diego
San Francisco
Costa Rica
Sao Paulo
Seattle
Seoul
Shanghai
Singapore
Stockholm
Stuttgart
Sydney
Taipei
Tel Aviv
Tokyo
Toronto
Vancouver
Vienna
Washington DC
Zürich
SUMMER 2009APMM Quarterly
Conference details
SUMMER 2009APMM Quarterly
Meet Vincent RuggioAPMM’s Youngest MemberContributor: Julie Chen, newsletter editor
When we heard that we had a new member and he
was ten years old, many of us were curious to know
how Vincent got his start and eventually found
APMM.
My husband and I arrived at the Ruggio household
in small-town Manlius, NY, outside of Syracuse. We
were greeted by Vincent’s parents, Jim and
Michelle. As Vincent’s homeschool teacher,
Michelle had a lot to say about Vincent, filled with
enthusiasm for his potential. We were escorted to
the basement that serves as school and workshop
for Vincent.
The room had two long plastic tables, about three
by six feet each, completely covered with Vincent’s
work: handmade paper models of buildings. As a
model maker, you may first think, “I could have
done that when I was young.” But looking closer,
and realizing how much personal discipline it would
have taken at the age of ten, it’s clear how
impressive it is.
The collection was a mélange of pieces modeled
after real buildings, while some were original
designs. For existing structures, Vincent and his
mom go online and download drawings for paper
kits. For his own designs, he determines scale on
his own. He focuses on the skins and shapes, but is
still struggling understanding structure as he tells
me that his models need frequent repair from
leaning.
It’s clear even before asking, that skyscrapers are
Vincent’s favorite subjects. They allure him because
of their iconic and monumental imagery.
Under the table was a Lego block neighborhood.
Vincent explained that it was a work in progress,
and that he was planning to make stop-animation
movies, and had several concepts in mind. At one
point in our talk, he describes his fascination with
buildings. He is affected by buildings and their
facades, mostly by what he sees in entertainment
media, like movies and television. He described
how he felt movies often neglect buildings; They
fade into the background, blurry. He wishes they
played a more prominent part in visual media.
p.4
Favorite Model Type: Skyscrapers
Favorite Material: Paper
Favorite Adhesive: Tape
Favorite City ever visited: Toronto, ON
Most Desired City to Visit: Los Angeles, CA
ABOVE: Vincent at an exhibit. Photo courtesy of
monarchrock.tripod.com
BELOW: Vincent’s Lego movie project.
SUMMER 2009APMM QuarterlyMeet Vincent Ruggio (continued)
The Road AheadVincent has already exhibited his work in venues
since age five. However, among many things,
Vincent wants most to become an architect. Like
most architectural designers and model makers, he
had an early fascination to play with Legos and
building blocks.
Unfortunately, attempts to find Vincent a mentor
have not been very fruitful. To keep Vincent ahead
of the curve, Michelle has been contacting local
architects, draftspersons, and architectural schools
in search of a program. Not many people are
interested in mentoring a pre-teen, and pre-college
programs are geared towards high-school juniors
and seniors. She signed Vincent up for APMM to
increase their network and learn more about
making models.
LEFT: The Ruggio Family, Michelle Jim, and son Vincent
ABOVE:-RIGHT: Models at home.
LOWER-RIGHT: Photo courtesy of monarchrock.tripod.com
For anyone in the Manlius or Syracus, NY area
interested in mentoring Vincent, please contact
Michelle Ruggio, [email protected]. They also
keep a website about his work and homeschooling,
http://monarchrock.tripod.com/.
SUMMER 2009APMM Quarterly
Contributor: Mike Mikottis
CTC Sales Manager, Opticote, Inc.
The nanotechnology known as “thin film” can
produce the most brilliantly shiny finishes
imaginable, but success depends on applying the
coating over a smooth, clean surface. Here are
some helpful ideas and tips, along with background
on the technology itself.
What do the phrases “metal-looking plastic”, “super
shiny”, “super transparent”, “true mirror” and
“dielectric color” all have in common? These terms
all describe the cool visual effects that thin film
coatings make possible on the components of
appearance models and physical prototypes.
Whether the purpose is to duplicate the use of thin
film in the actual end product, to create the look of
metal on a plastic part, or to enhance the glossy
brilliance of a finish, thin film coatings are an
indispensable tool for the model maker and the
prototype builder seeking the highest levels of
accuracy and shine. Obtaining the best possible
results does require some care: proper preparation
and handling of parts before coating is the key.
First, a little about the technology itself.
What Is Thin Film?Thin Film is a nanotechnology used to create
coatings comprised of extremely thin and very pure
layers of desired materials deposited onto a target
Tips For Obtaining Brilliantly Shiny Thin Film Finishes
p.6
substrate. Thin film is so thin that it is measured in
nanometers- a million nanometers fit in a millimeter.
Thin film coatings that are thinner than the
wavelengths of visible light are common- in fact the
interesting and useful optical effects thin film
coatings are known for depend on it.
With metals like aluminum, chrome, silver or gold it
is possible to create highly reflective metal mirrors.
With specially designed “interference” coatings
consisting of transparent materials it is possible to
create non-metallic mirrors and colored effects. By
combining these ideas, colored metallic mirrors are
possible. And by additional means such as applying
metal materials in layers so thin as to be translucent
and using various colors/textures of substrates
even more visual effect possibilities emerge.
Clean and Smooth Is The KeyAlthough thin film can be used to create dull metal
and other effects, by far the most popular
decorative use is to create superior reflection-
whether as a plain (or colored) metallic looking
mirror, as polished metal, or as clear (or colored)
super gloss. For these most shiny of all finishes, the
two critical keys are to start with a very smooth
substrate, and to keep it as clean as possible prior
to coating.
SUMMER 2009APMM QuarterlyObtaining Brilliant Shine (continued)
Start Smooth, Or Get SmoothSmoothness is related to the flatness of a material
at the smallest scales. It can be achieved through
manufacturing processes such as molding or
blowing of thermoplastic/glass materials, and by
post-processing such as by mechanical polishing,
topcoats, surface re-flowing, and so on.
Simply put: the smoother, the better. Surface
imperfections become more noticeable under
mirror-like coatings- even microscopic surface
scratches can “telegraph” through a finish. Rather
than relying too much on hand polishing, whenever
possible start with a finely molded or blown part, or
use non-mechanical polishing techniques such as
chemical vapor or heat, or apply an imperfection
covering topcoat.
Start Clean, Or Make CleanEven small surface contaminations are potential
problems because thin film coatings are so
extremely thin. A fingerprint is more than enough to
compromise a finish. Grabbing a part on the edge is
not adequate for avoiding contamination; there can
be enough surface contact to allow migration of oils
to the front surface. But the good news is that
avoiding contamination is often not difficult, and
cleaning is usually possible.
When possible the best approach is to start with a
very clean part and to take the necessary effort to
keep it clean. Wear clean, soft gloves, such as a
jeweler's glove, when handling parts. Take care not
to speak over a part unless wearing a mask- even
the act of normal speaking can launch enough
saliva into the air to cause problems. But there are
always those times when the realities of work flow
dictate the need for cleaning just prior to coating.
You can either do this cleaning yourself, or rely on
your thin film coating provider to exercise their
cleaning experience, processes, and techniques.
But be aware that in some situations vigorous
cleaning may not be possible- such as on parts
having delicate decorative work or masking in
place.
Cleaning approaches should be chosen based on
compatibility with the rest of the materials
comprising the part, and evaluated on a case-by-
case basis. Testing should be done on non-
conspicuous areas or on scraps. Two very popular
and successful possible cleaning agents are
isopropyl alcohol, and mild detergent and water. But
avoid scented detergents- these contain oils.
Using microfiber cloth can help avoid introducing
scratches in softer materials. Cotton swabs are
often another helpful tool. Bottom line: use the least
abrasive tools you can, the most gentle solvents,
and least amount of force necessary to get the job
done.
Stay CleanOnce clean parts are obtained it is usually a simple
matter to keep them that way. Two of the easiest
yet very effective approaches are to wrap parts in
non-scratching optical paper, or to simply slip them
into poly-bags.
p.7
Metalized fobs
SUMMER 2009APMM QuarterlyObtaining Brilliant Shine (continued)
Summary of Tips For Making Thin
Film Coatings Shine:
Start with a smooth substrate, or
be prepared to make it smooth
Start with a clean substrate, and
take pains to keep it clean
Package those smooth, clean parts
to keep them smooth and clean
Do these things, work with an experienced thin film
provider, and you will be well on your way to
brilliant, highly reflective finishes. If you have any
questions on how to prepare parts for coating, or if
you would like to receive a detailed outline
Preparing Parts For Thin Film Coating, please
contact:
Mike Mikottis
CTC Sales Manager, Opticote, Inc.
[email protected] 847-678-8900 x-118
About Opticote
Opticote, Inc. has been a contract provider of thin
film coatings on plastic, glass, and metal in a wide
variety of applications for nearly 40 years. Thin film
is a nanotechnology where extremely thin layers
(measured in nanometers) of pure substances are
deposited on the target in a vacuum chamber.
Coatings employing this technology produce
amazing results- such as altering the way light
behaves to produce various useful optical and
decorative effects, conductive and non-conductive
coatings, and other novel effects such as
transparent conductive coatings and non-
conductive metallic looking coatings. Thin film is
used in diverse products including prescription eye
wear and fashion sunglasses, consumer
electronics, medical, aerospace, defense, lasers,
industrial optics, art glass, and jewelry.
p.8
Black chrome over wood
SUMMER 2009APMM Quarterly
Book Review: "A Beginner's Guide to Creative Effects for your Model Railroad”Contributor: Dennis Heinzeroth, APMM Member
It's not often that you get more than you expected
to, but somehow author Paul M. Newitt has
managed to proverbially cram 10 lbs. of information
into a 1.5 lb book. There is a vast wealth of creative
knowledge contained within its covers. Over 500
photos and illustrations populate its pages, but don't
let that fool you, this book is heavy on text as well.
To quote the book, “The primary goal of this book is
to provide you with easy-to-follow information and
techniques that will give you the confidence to
explore the fun with imagination in model
railroading.”
The first chapter to the last page can be summed
up with these two quotes: “This is designed to help
anyone who has felt intimidated by electrical or
mechanical projects, and learn how to make these
items not only work, but work together.” and “This
book concludes with a comprehensive index and
source guide.” This manual delivers on its
promises.
Ten chapters cover all areas of adding animation to
a model railroad layout, but obviously these ideas
can be adopted and adapted to the needs of the
professional model maker. I recall seeing questions
that have been asked on the M.I.L.E. about adding
that extra “something” to a project that are covered
by the information inside this book.
If you find yourself needing to create moving water
with polarized animation, adding some form of
mechanical animation to a model, or need a primer
on using electroluminescent, LED or fiber optic
lighting effects, this is one book you may want to
take a look at.
p.9
Chapters include:
1. Electrical Primer
2. Wiring Techniques
3. Lighting Techniques
4. Track Effects
5. Animation Effects
6. Sound Effects
7. Scenery Effects
8. Theatrical Effects
9. Effects Operations
10. Source Guide
Each topic is explained in detail and further
enhanced by the numerous photos that are also
captioned with in-depth explanations.
Title: "A Beginner's Guide to Creative Effects for Your Model Railroad”
Author: Paul M. Newitt
Publisher: J-T Publishing
ISBN: 0-9760864-0-9
Pub. Date: June 2005
SUMMER 2009APMM Quarterly
Tidbits: Miscellany
The Status of Rapid Prototyping by Plastics Technology: http://www.ptonline.com/articles/200903fa1.html
Largest model railroad in the world: http://dvice.com/archives/2009/03/astonishing_mos.php
Anyone have a light? http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_3402394.html
Flight test videos of Terrafugia Flying Car prototypes: http://www.terrafugia.com/videogallery.html
Alion to support ARDEC's Rapid Response, Rapid Prototype Technology Initiative: http://www.upi.com/Security_Industry/2009/07/30/Alion-to-
support-ARDEC-initiative/UPI-72221248979565/
Rapid-prototyping technologies in fine art jewelry: http://www.themonitor.com/entertainment/stc-
29060-worlds-connects.html
Making of a Horse Model http://www.hockleystudios.com/making-horse-model.html
p.10
Modeler’s Goose Rhyme
Fabricate, fabricate, Modeler's plan:
Make you a thing as fast as I can!
Mold it, cast it, paint it for a fee,
then put it in a crate for express delivery.
-Dennis Heinzeroth
APMM Member
Solar Powered Moon Rover Prototype http://www.inhabitat.com/2009/07/22/solar-powered-rover-
will-explore-apollo-moon-landing-site/
3D Printing, Now in Stainless Steel http://www.popsci.com/diy/article/2009-08/3-d-printing-
now-stainless-steel
SUMMER 2009APMM Quarterly
Employment Listings
Newsletter Article and Advertisement Submissions
Article submissions by members are more than welcome and can be made at any
time to Julie Chen, [email protected]. Articles may be postponed to
later issues, due to limited space, or subject relevance.
Interested in advertising? Please contact Samanthi Martinez for more info:
p.11
Model Shop Manager/Model Maker
Impressive Prototypes
CAD/Illustrator/Researcher
PRRP Proto-Models
Prototyper
Gravity Tank, Inc.
Senior Model Maker
Yeh IDeology recruiters
Copyright 1997-2009, Association of Professional Model Makers, All Rights Reserved.
P.O. Box 165 * Hamilton, NY 13346
Toll-Free Phone: 877.663.APMM (2766) * Fax: 877.765.6950 * Contact Us
All listings above with descriptions can be found on
www.modelmakers.org by logging into your
account and navigating to Forums > Employment
Opportunities in the right menu bar, or by going to
the following URL:
http://web.memberclicks.com/mc/page.do?sitePageId=77492&orgId=apmm
Both employment listings AND resumes can be posted there as well!