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Post by GmanJeff on Sept 27, 2018 9:27:33 GMT -5
I suspect that many involved in Z are trying to model in the smallest possible physical space while still generating some sense of realism. To that extent, very large structures like this probably will appeal only to those who are working with larger layouts than may be the norm. In other words, I would guess the market for very big structures in Z is relatively small.
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Post by charlie on Sept 27, 2018 13:30:35 GMT -5
I suspect that many involved in Z are trying to model in the smallest possible physical space while still generating some sense of realism. To that extent, very large structures like this probably will appeal only to those who are working with larger layouts than may be the norm. In other words, I would guess the market for very big structures in Z is relatively small. You're right. That just because I want to model this one for myself and make more for those who are interested. I'm not looking for large market (I cannot anyway!) It's true we want to make a diorama or layout in very limited space with Z, so we need small structures. But to my opinion, and for those who can do it, when we have space for larger Z layout (even home layout), there is a real lack of larger structures. And it's because we do Z, that we can add bigger and higher buildings, what is a 35m high building in Z: only 16cm!
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Post by charlie on Oct 1, 2018 14:21:11 GMT -5
Hi, The printing equipment in on the way! I hope to start tests in the coming weeks. After many working hours, the 3D model of the station is ready for printing . It needs about 6-7 days work/printing to produce 1 piece. So I may build only 10 of them in total. I will also start with a smaller trackside structure (faster and cheaper!). I have several in mind: -a factory backdrop with loading dock (about 3cm wide and 15-20cm long) (a modular construction in order to assemble several of them on the same row) -a small fuel dealer -a standard city building (offices, library), 5 to 10 floors. -a livestock exchange building -a fruit or milk style depot Any suggestion? Charlie
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Post by charlie on Oct 2, 2018 13:47:55 GMT -5
Don't ask me too many things, I haven't started yet, and production will be extremely limited, as I'm not a pro, and designing takes a lot of time! Charlie Another good news! After checking up how things can be done legally here, I can actually become a "pro" very easily, by combining modeling with my own job. This means: - I plan ---if everything works fine--- to design, build and sell structures on a more or less regular basis. - I will try to work on one project after each other. - First, I'll focus on the ideas/projects listed earlier, but after that I'll try to be open to other eras. - Production will still be rather limited : I'm thinking of 10-15 units max for large structures like the station, 20-50 units for "normal size" buildings, and more for detailing items. Charlie
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Post by cwrr on Oct 2, 2018 15:05:04 GMT -5
I could use a Milwaukee Road substation for my Milw layout.......
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Post by charlie on Oct 21, 2018 6:59:13 GMT -5
Hi all, Good news My printing equipment is now running pretty well. I've been doing some successful tests and I will soon start producing the buildings. Here is the first printing draft of the central roof. Windows will come separately. After checking this one carefully, I already modified the 3D model and the printing parameters in order to get a better quality and a more solid model I'm now modifying all the parts of the station for the same reasons. When I get the complete draft of the station and a satisfaction on the quality, I'll start producing for you! In the mid time I will complete the administrative details for the opening of my "company" under the name of " Z&US Models". I'll also try to open a blog/Facebook/other page for presenting my models elsewhere than on AZL forum, as I guess this is not a place for selling! Hope you like it! Charlie
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Post by charlie on Oct 30, 2018 7:02:29 GMT -5
Hi all, The process is going pretty well so far, a few more adjustments to be done for better results I haven't thought of that earlier, but I'll need to do small changes on the project: As far as I know I cannot use UP logo or name freely (is that correct?) and sell it. Therefore I'll need to remove the logo and company name (free to you to make your own logo later on and choose the company name). That being said, I'll therefore build a clock as an option to fit on the front instead of the logo, like in the early 1900's Source of the picture is unknown, date is 1910) I now have a better view on the building processing, just to give you an idea, It needs 80hours to be printed, more than expected, but quality goes first. And I'll take more time to improve all the parts. I'll therefore (not talking about taxes) have to increase slightly the final price, but do my best to stay in this range of price. Charlie
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Post by markm on Oct 30, 2018 8:28:02 GMT -5
Charlie,
Check with UP, it was buried on their website, but the last I checked UP allowed free use of the name and logo of the road and all the predecessor roads so long as you provide them with information on the use, and you acknowledge the UP ownership.
BNSF used to have a similar arrangement, but a couple years back I read in a Kansas City business journal that they were evaluating formal licensing. I don't know the outcome but I assume that if they went through with it, AZL, MTL and a few other companies would have gotten a cease and decease letter by now.
Mark
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nick
New Member
Posts: 10
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Post by nick on Oct 30, 2018 11:34:34 GMT -5
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Post by charlie on Oct 31, 2018 3:58:45 GMT -5
Thank you for your help guys, I'll have a look there. Logos are ready and pretty nice after printing, so if it works I will provide them. If not, I 'll make a small clock instead Charlie
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Post by charlie on Nov 1, 2018 4:55:26 GMT -5
Hi, It's moving on! Here is the first draft of the central block The wings are currently under process. This gives you an idea of the size and details. Forgive my awful camera...need to change it! I'm waiting the answer from Union Pacific about the use of their name and logo Charlie
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Post by charlie on Nov 2, 2018 16:03:43 GMT -5
Hi there! Getting closer to the end! Here is the almost complete station, still some micro parts like the roof detailing, the small porches above doors and windows, and the hand-guards on the back stairs and I'm done! Already 2 full months on it ! Next projects will be smaller So, everything goes as planned, next week I'll finalize the details, window glazing and inside floors templates (floors won't be included, just realized that a template for cutting them in plywood or carton paper will be better if you want later on to add lighting effects). I should then be ready for producing for you (if I get an answer from Union Pacific about the name and logo). I'll try to open a web-page (facebook at first) for direct contact. Please let me know by personal message if you want one, from now-on, selling price will be 185€ (shipping not included). Keep in mind that the building process is relatively slow, I will serve you in the order of confirmation and let you know what is you number. Charlie
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Post by cwrr on Nov 3, 2018 14:50:42 GMT -5
That is beautiful Charlie!! Well done!!
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Post by texrail on Nov 3, 2018 15:27:17 GMT -5
Thanks for your initiative! It will strengthen our z-scale attractivity. The price is very attractiv,too.
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Post by charlie on Nov 4, 2018 7:41:37 GMT -5
Thank you guys for your support Charlie
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