This is the HO scale Drake Interplanetary Caterpillar model that I built with my kids. Modeled entirely from scratch using only concept images, we 3D printed the parts, added LED lighting, and gave it a nice pirate paint job.
We started by modeling a single Caterpillar module back in 2014, then added a few more over time with an open side to see the interior, followed by the front module. Of course, that wasn't good enough for the kids apparently, so we didn't stop until the entire ship was done.
My oldest son modeled the original Cargo Module and the Command Module as well as running all of the LED lights to a power supply and controller board. My middle son modeled the thrusters and helped my youngest son with the painting of the original front module section. I finished the painting on the back portion.
All of the parts for the ship were printed using an original Kickstarter Solidoodle, modified with a heated bed and improved hot-end. I didn't really count how much filament was used, but it was quite a bit to print the entire ship along with several smaller prototypes.
If you would like to see more details about the build process, (And give some traffic to Cloud Imperium Games who obviously deserve most of the credit along with designer Jim Marrtin) check out the full posts on the Star Citizen community hub. And buy a ship while you’re there. It’s going to be an amazing game.
https://robertsspaceindustries.com/community/citizen-spotlight/176-Drake-Caterpillar-Model-HO-Scale
https://robertsspaceindustries.com/community/citizen-spotlight/6539-Drake-Caterpillar-Model-Large-Build-Timelapse
