A YouTuber was so fascinated by Deadpool and Wolverine’s retro-futuristic accessories that he created his own working version.
The Time Variance Authority, or TVA, has become a cornerstone of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s ongoing metaphysical plot. It first appeared in the first season of Loki, with a distinctive “retro-futuristic” aesthetic. It later played a pivotal role in the plot of Deadpool & Wolverine.
YouTuber and modder Matte gray was delighted with the look of the TVA technology – so much so that he decided to recreate one of the gadgets it uses, known as the TemPad.
Matte gray
To recreate this foldable miniature computer, Matt would need skills in 3D modeling and electronics. He admitted that while he had already dabbled in these areas, the TemPad project would be much larger and more complex than anything he had attempted before.
The starting point was a small LCD screen, along with a microcontroller and an Adafruit single-board computer. The next step was to design and build a prototype enclosure that would fit the components and look the part. This took countless hours in Fusion 360 to get the design right.
After several test prints and adjustments, Matt finally got a model that he was happy with. He then purchased some metallic PLA filament for his 3D printer, to give the device the kind of coppery sheen he wanted.
Next, it was time to wire and solder the electronic components that make this device more than just a static accessory. Of course, not only did it require connecting the cables and circuit boards, but also the code that made it work.
For another embellishment, Matt used a vinyl cutter to add a thin layer of walnut veneer to the surface of the unit to complete the look.
The final assembly was a process that Matt described as “nerve-wracking.” The end result is worth it, as it looks worthy of being showcased on a movie screen in the hands of a Marvel hero.
If you want to see more unusual projects from YouTubers, check out this robot playing Pokémon or Doom playing on a flower pot.
