Conor Mulligan - Engineering Portfolio

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Commander Colt’s ARC Trooper Armor (Star Wars)
Description
"Fighting a war tests a soldier's mettle. Winning it... proves their valor." – Commander Colt
Commander Colt's ARC (Advanced Recon Commando) Trooper Armor is a testament to the elite status and unyielding discipline of the Grand Army of the Republic's most formidable soldiers. As a member of the Advanced Recon Commandos, Colt's armor is not just a protective suit, but a symbol of the skill, courage, and tactical prowess required to lead Republic forces on the most dangerous battlefronts.
Colt’s customized Phase II ARC armor is a distinctive blend of standard-issue Republic trooper design and specialized enhancements tailored for special operations. Featuring reinforced plating, an advanced life support system, and an integrated heads-up display (HUD) offering real-time tactical data, this armor ensures its wearer is equipped for high-risk missions deep behind enemy lines. Its crimson markings, unique to Colt’s unit, signify his rank, experience, and unrelenting commitment to duty.
Equipped with a Kama (command skirt) and pauldron, Colt’s armor reflects his ARC designation, granting additional protection and storage for mission-critical gear. The dual DC-17 hand blasters holstered at his sides highlight the ARC Trooper’s signature combat style—highly mobile and lethal in close-quarters engagements. The armor also incorporates a rangefinder and communication suite for coordination with Republic forces and Jedi commanders during battle.
Commander Colt, a dedicated and skilled warrior, was instrumental in training clone cadets on Kamino and leading Republic forces against Separatist threats. His armor remains a lasting reminder of the courage and sacrifice of the Grand Army's finest, embodying the unwavering loyalty and resilience of the clone troopers who fought for the Republic during the Clone Wars.
Challenges
- Achieving a seamless finish across large, segmented 3D-printed pieces.
- Balancing durability and comfort for long periods of wear.
- Accurately replicating the character's color scheme and design details.
Results
- Produced a fully wearable, visually accurate Commander Colt armor set that combines aesthetic precision with practical wearability.
- The modular assembly system allows for easy transport and customization.
Engineering Skills Demonstrated
- Additive Manufacturing: Printed wearable armor pieces with PLA, ensuring comfort and durability.
- Modular Design: Used magnets and elastic straps for adjustable, removable components.
- Painting and Weathering: Replicated battle damage with acrylic washes and dry brushing techniques.
- Textile Integration: Integrated leather, nylon webbing, and elastic straps for functionality.
Project Summary:
- Designed and fabricated a wearable replica of Commander Colt’s ARC Trooper armor from Star Wars, focusing on durability, accuracy, and comfort for extended wear.
Design and Fabrication Steps:
[1] Armor Components:
- Printed armor pieces using Hatchbox Pro PLA on a CR10 V2 3D printer.
- Bonded individual pieces with Starbond CA glue and reinforced seams with Rustoleum filler primer and Bondo spot putty for a smooth, cohesive appearance.
[2] Painting and Detailing:
- Applied a base coat of Rustoleum Performance Enamel for durability.
- Used Rustoleum Black, Charcoal Grey, and Claret Wine spray paints along with masking tape to replicate the color scheme of Commander Colt’s armor.
- Created additional depth with a black acrylic wash applied to crevices, wiping off excess for a weathered effect.
[3] Helmet Construction:
- Integrated a black welding face shield, cut with a Dremel, for the visor.
- Added mesh detailing behind the mouthpiece and respirators to enhance realism.
[4] Strapping System:
- Used 1-inch black elastic straps for elbow and knee pads, secured with snap buttons for easy adjustment.
- Fabricated additional straps and shoulder connectors from 1/8-inch white leather, reinforcing them with stitching and Velcro.
- Constructed belt loops from 1-inch black nylon webbing to hold the thigh plates securely in place.
[5] Assembly and Final Touches:
- Connected chest armor, helmet backplate, and other modular pieces using neodymium magnets for secure yet removable assembly.
- Completed the ensemble with white-painted Chelsea boots, black leather gloves, an Under Armor bodysuit, and a balaclava for a cohesive appearance.





























