Transformers Studio Series
The Studio Series segment is a modernization of Transformers movie products that deliver theatrical characters based on their movie CAD designs that were developed by ILM. In addition to precise character representations, it also delivers scale-accurate depictions of robots and vehicles in relation to one another. While the line was initially created to cover live-action theatrical films, it has been expanded in recent years to include the 86 animated film. Studio Series tries to maintain licensed vehicle designs in partnership with various automotive manufacturers.
Redefining Development Process
Shortly after joining the Transformers team, I set out to streamline the paint decoration development process in order to eliminate redundant duplication. The existing process, which had not been updated in over 2 decades, involved digitally painting over gray model photographs and providing a spec for mold layout and materials along with tracking individual paint operations. Due to the limitations of the photographs, this could often lead to inaccurate information, improper deco count, and unpaintable materials not being identified. It also had poor downstream use, as the files required duplication for digital paint master, and again for digital packaging assets.
The new process that I establish, utilized the digital CAD files of the figures, allowing them to be manipulated and painted in a three-dimensional environment. Starting with Zbrush, and being followed up with Keyshot, this process provided an incredibly thorough production breakdown, for a much faster / lower-cost development, more accurate information share, and reuse of the files for downstream development uses.
Multipurposing Assets
Working in this digital format has enabled us to generate a more accurate representation of the toy while allowing the files to be used for packaging, marketing assets, and most importantly paint master development.
From Screen to Toy
This is a mini-series that I have been publishing alongside various figure releases to give further narrative to the development process. This has quickly translated to fan engagement and has been republished across all major Transformers fan sites / social media platforms.
All of the below can be accessed via social media:
