Standardized System for Sci-Fi Set Construction

[Matthew Raymond]

I've noticed that spaceship interior terrain sets are pretty common for table top gaming, and that for computer games and rendering, it's quite common to find sets of models for spaceship corridors. I was wondering if there were similar modular systems for physical, life-size sets? I'm looking for something similar to the following:

• Standardized units in all three dimensions that would allow sets to be assembled like Legos.
• Pieces from different sets could be easily mixed and matched.
• New pieces could be made by simply building around standardized frames with common fastening positions that allow independently made pieces to be quickly bolted together.
• Pieces would have their own power for built-in lights and motors using power standards like USB.
• Pieces could feed each other power through standardized power connection points.
• Because units and fastening points are standardized, 3D models of the physical sets could be easily created for digital effects.
• Similar 3D models could be used to allow 3D printing or CNC routing of parts.
• Pieces could be easily added and removed to provide "wild walls" for filming.

Does anyone know if there's any system like this out there?

 

[YJAGG]

Having stared at booths all week, here in San Diego for a tradeshow, I imagine you could use the extruded aluminum 4x4's (24, 40 and 80 inch standards) to frame out something then use the grooves/tracks in the 4x4's to slip in the flexible walls. Some the island booths go north of 15-12feet high with a 2nd level.
Our booth builder uses CAD to mock up any configuration changes we need if the booth space is odd shaped ( going from our usual in-line to an island or once in an L shape. using the parts on the pallet

 

[Matthew Raymond]

After some additional research, I was thinking simple stage platforms for the floor, and for the walls and ceiling, you mount a frame made from 80/20 T-Slot Extruded aluminum on conventional aluminum square 12 inch trusses. Different floor heights may be an issue though, as well as transparent floors or floors with lights. Are there any good options that don't rely on Imperial units, so that we can take this international? Also, what do we do for power? I was thinking of just mounting a USB hub in a wall or something, but then how to you distribute power from one wall/ceiling/floor piece to another? Also, do we care about plumbing, or is that such an edge case that we let the set designers worry about that?