1. Project Background and Process Positioning
The Henghui Model Workshop received an order from a customer for a customised 1:12 transparent lawn mower model, requiring 90% structural fidelity. The production team adopted a ‘layered visualisation’ process solution, combining ABS injection moulding with acrylic laser engraving to ensure that the internal transmission structure is clearly visible while maintaining the strength of the shell.
2. Core Production Process
1. Frame Casting Stage
A 3D scanner was used to create a point cloud model of the prototype, with 12 key transmission nodes such as the gearbox and blade shaft marked for emphasis.
The main frame was injection moulded using modified plastic on a 50-tonne injection moulding machine at a temperature of 215°C to complete the basic moulding.
Mould lines were manually trimmed, and 400-grit sanding discs were used to achieve seamless joints.
2. Transparent Component Processing
CNC-cut 36 transparent panels from 2mm-thick acrylic sheets
Hydrofluoric acid mist etching process creates transmission structure textures on the interior
Ultrasonic welding is used at critical connection points to avoid adhesive marks affecting transparency
3. Dynamic Structure Restoration
Micro-bearing nesting technology enables 360° rotation of the blade assembly
Magnetic battery compartment cover design retains the original snap-fit form
Throttle wires use 0.3mm enameled wire braiding to replicate the actual wiring layout
III. Surface Treatment Process
1. Multi-layer coating system
Primer: Tamiya TS-13 transparent primer (3 cross-coats)
Main Colour: DuPont ChromaLusion® Chameleon Paint (green-gold gradient effect)
Protective Layer: Urethane Clear Coat (cured at 60°C)
2. Weathering Treatment
Enamel stain washing applied to the cooling vents to simulate oil residue accumulation
Titanium metal powder sprayed on the blade edges to simulate wear and tear
Randomly distributed 0.2mm diameter ‘grass clippings’ electrostatic flock
