1. Conceptual Design Idea & Research
When I was trying to select a subject for this 3D animation project, I have attempted to do research on metamorphoses that have happened in factories and robotics. One form of metamorphosis in regards to machines is through folding exoskeletons of robots in order to achieve a new form of life (Miyashita et al, 2017).
After deciding that I wanted to create a set of machines which borrow resemblance from manufacturing factories, I have searched for different types of machines that would conceptually fit the vision and conceptual idea I had.
The metamorphosis that would happen in this animation would consist of an orb going through three stages of life – a bubble, a marble and finally, a Personal Satellite Assitant. This animation as a whole would represent simple ideas turning into dreams and a few of them turning into reality. Each different state of being has a different rate of succeeding in meeting their ambitions (for example, the pink bubbles have a very low chance whereas for the regular marble it is higher).
The Personal Satellite Assistant has the purpose of supporting astronauts with smaller tasks in space, such as
Originally, when I created the first draft of the animation, the colours at the beginning during the bubble generator scene were incredibly pale and muted – this was my attempt at fixing the colours and applying one of the Tufte principles – the colours
2. Animation Storyboard
Before creating the stroyboard, I have tried to brainstorm more ideas so that I can create a more cohesive story for the animation. This story is supposed to revolve around dreams, chances and ambtions, and I have decided for the factory to have some form of control over the outcome of the marble. The narrative begins with bubbles being generated in a machine that resembles an electricity generator, representing the low-stakes ideas that are the beginnings of major dreams. These bubbles are rather easily destroyed, therefore representing that for many people, even their small dreams fade away as they can be unrealistic. I have made the decision that these bubbles should be pink, linking to the common motif of “rose-coloured glasses” which portray a sense of naivety and unrealistic optimism.
The second frame of the storyboard presents a bubble popping, and falling to the ground as a marble. This marble is the representation of a dream that is more substantial and has a higher chance of success.
3. Visual Design Treatment
One of the Tufte theories which would be applicable to this 3D animation is the micro and macro readings.
4. Final Design
I have tried applying real life resources about industrial factories to my 3D design via the research that I have done previously. One element of this is deciding the materials that I will be using for the objects in my fictional factory. When it comes to the flooring, I have decided to use epoxy flooring because it brightens the environment and slightly improves the safety of the workers (ImpactFloors, 2025). When it comes to the main body of the machine, I have selected a shiny, reflective metal surface that can withstand a lot of pressure after long periods of time.
5. 3D Metamorphosis Animation
Harvard Referencing
- Jurco, A. N., Scurtu, I. L. (2024) Aesthetic considerations in industrial and vehicles design. Journal of Industrial Design and Engineering Graphics, 19(1), 153-156.
Escalante, M. (2015) John Wiese – Deviate From Balance [Photograph]. https://agiyuzuru.wordpress.com/2016/04/16/john-wiese-%E2%80%8E-deviate-from-balance/ [Accessed 12/4/2025].
Willats, S. (2013) Information fusion: four stages of representation [Gouache paint]. https://www.mottodistribution.com/shop/publishers/modern-art-oxford/stephen-willats-conscious-unconscious-in-and-out-the-reality-check.html [Accessed 12/4/2025].
Red Velvet (2019) The ReVe Festival Day 1 [Digital]. SM Entertainment.
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