Case Study: Artem Ltd. achieves rapid production of 30 hermit-crab-ready, highly realistic miniature homes for a TV ad with Stratasys Connex3 3D printing

U.K. Prop Agency 3D Prints Intricate Mini Model Homes for Hermit Crabs in TV Ad

Artem Ltd., a U.K. prop agency with nearly 30 years’ experience, was commissioned by Zoopla to create matchbox-sized, photoreal miniature homes to serve as hermit crab shells for a TV advertisement — all within a one-month deadline. To achieve the fine architectural detail and animal-safe fit required, Artem turned to Stratasys and its Connex3 multi-material 3D printing capability (printed in Digital ABS).

Using Stratasys Connex3 printers, Artem laser-scanned real shells, rapidly produced prototypes that were tested with a live crab, then printed and hand-finished 30 final models. The Stratasys solution enabled all 30 intricate shells to be produced in just one week, delivered realistic, crab-accepted results, and allowed the completed ad to be broadcast across the U.K. as part of Zoopla’s campaign.

Artem Ltd.

Simon Tayler

Owner