Hello Polly!
One of the fun things about touring our exhibitions is that every so often we can update them. Sometime we’ll build a new version of an existing model - sometimes it’s a completely new model. So, let me introduce you to ‘Polly’ the Polacanthus!
‘Polly’ had her first public trip late last month when we took her to a Tartan LUG show - but she’ll be properly on display from February 2023 when she joins the rest of Brick Dinos at the Horniman Museum and Gardens. I’ll admit that it has been a while since I’ve had the chance to dedicate myself to a build from start to finish, so what better way to document the build than a timelapse?
Building a new dinosaur for Brick Dinos
In case you spotted my earlier Facebook post about Unistrut - well, this is why I’ve been experimenting with that. Usually I’d create a CAD model of the framework to be fully welded, but in this instance my aim was to create a 100% correct digital twin of the model - including the framework inside. As you can see in the thumbnail above, I even created a 3D model of the cradle that the horns and tail slot into.
Some fun facts for you:
The 120 hours is correct, split over 5 weeks. I did edit out lunch ;-) I’m a fast builder but they really take a loooong time! This doesn’t include the other parts of the display which probably add on another 20-30 hours at least.
You might see some strangely printed bricks going into the model. That’s because we always try to recycle our bricks as much as possible. These bricks had mis-prints or errors - but the brick itself is fine so they’re kept for the insides of models.
The four largest spines on Polly can be removed. Not to make her any less dangerous - it’s just easier to move her around without them!
When assembling the model I accidentally managed to put one of her feet on backwards! Thankfully the frame I’d designed could be loosened in order to fix it!
Polly has a specially designed transit case to protect her (and her spines) when she is on tour. Complete with instruction manual.
Finally - Polly, like our other Dinos, does roar. To find out what she sounds like though, you’ll need to visit her on tour!
