3D Engineers - Vehicle re-creation specialists
AS Motorsport - Aston Martin DBR2 Body Re-creation
Aston Martin DBR2 Replica - Picture courtesy Peter Gunnar
The brief
Scan an existing Aston Martin DBR2 replica and subtly manipulate the subsequent data to create a vehicle with revised features. In particular the bodywork aft of the doors was revised to create a vehicle that not only more faithfully followed the original cars lines, but as a useful by-product increased the boot volume.
Once the design had been agreed, design and manufacture a buck - a tool used to create aluminium car bodies - and commission this at the clients chosen body manufacturers.
The buck was specifically designed to break down into five distinct modules, so that storage and work space could be saved and parts of the body produced in sections on a work bench if required.
Information utilised
The scanned data obtained from the subject vehicle, original Aston Martin body plans, templates taken from an original car and contemporary photographs of the iconic Aston Martin DBR2.
Project progression
Normally, we would make this section mainly narrative. However, with this project the pictures more than adequately describe the flow of the project, our tenacity and attention to detail so the narrative has been kept to a minimum.
We would like to add that the help of Faye and Anne from the Aston Martin Heritage Trust (AMHT) was invaluable. The AMHT is open to the public and is a fantastic resource for any Aston Martin Lagonda enthusiast.
Scanned section of an original Aston Martin plan (Courtesy AMHT)
Paper template of an exhaust vent from an original car, acquired from one of our contacts
Visiting race meetings and classic auto events to take hundreds of pictures of similar cars
Exploring how original cars have been created or restored and investigating original features. (Courtesy AMHT)
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Studying contemporary pictures. Wonder who the lady is? (Courtesy AMHT)
Having scanned a vehicle, the scan data had to be manipulated
Checking scan symmetry
Body aft of rear doors completely re-designed utilising the original plans
Lower bonnet and lights re-designed
The complete car finished
Render - a computer picture - created for ASM promotional purposes
Design a buck
As usual, we took time to speak to the metal workers that would be using the buck to ensure it met their requirements. This is a useful process that means we are able to add features specifically designed to suit particular methods of working.
The aluminium body builder specifically required 3D elements within the buck structure
Computer Aided Design (CAD) body super-imposed over the buck to ensure the end result was correct
The buck may be taken to shows, so the client's logo was incorporated into the side
Door was made removable so it could be created separately on a work bench
All parts of the buck numbered for ease of assembly
Cross bolted with steel inserts. Strength with practicality
We would like to thank Andrew Soar of ASM (AS Motorsport) for allowing us to tell the story of our work with his firm. If you ever need a replica Aston Martin DBR2 please contact ASM via their website www.asmotorsport.co.uk.
Finally, this project would not be complete without thanking John and Paul from North Devon Metalcraft for their input. A pragmatic outlook coupled with an in depth practical knowledge helped ensure the buck design was a truly useful creation produced within the client's budget. Additionally, they proved that the project was possible despite another less capable firm saying it wasn't in terms of delivery time, method and cost. This makes 3D Engineers proud to be involved with such an experienced team and why we recommend them to our clients.
Modern technology helps faithfully replicate the body of a design icon. Black and white pictures (Courtesy AMHT)
Please note that 3D Engineers and AS Motorsport have no connection with, and are not endorsed by, Aston Martin or the Aston Martin Heritage Trust.
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