Thing Lives! Next Gen Remote Control for Animatronics - Jesse Velez

From the creator

Recorded Date: September 29, 2025 Learn more about Maker Faire Bay Area! https://bayarea.makerfaire.com/ Jesse Velez is an animatronics designer with a passion for movies, sci-fi, and art. He builds practical effects for film, television, live entertainment, virtual reality, and other creative industries, leading teams to bring imaginative ideas to life. Velez discussed his recent project for Netflix’s Thing Season 2 premiere. Starting from the first prototype, a walking hand, his team upgraded the design using motion capture gloves from Manus and prosthetic robotics from All Bionics. The goal was a fully wireless, portable hand that mirrors Velez’s movements for live interactions, red carpet events, and international appearances in LA, Istanbul, Seoul, and London. The hand’s design combined 3D-printed fingers and wrist, modified hardware to match actor proportions, and off-the-shelf electronics including FPV drone batteries and boost converters to fit the system into a compact, self-contained package. Custom software translates the glove’s motion capture into real-time robotic movement, enabling precise performance despite environmental interference. Velez emphasized problem-solving, rapid prototyping, and creative adaptation of existing technologies. The project demonstrates how innovative animatronics can enhance storytelling and live experiences, providing filmmakers with versatile tools for immersive effects.

Published 2026-01-13 · Watch on YouTube ↗
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