From CAD to Character: The Making of Real-Life Movie Robots

Ever wondered what it takes to bring a movie robot to life? Join A3D Manufacturing for a behind-the-scenes conversation with David Ferreira, aka "botbuilderdave," founder of Potentium Design, as he shares how CAD, 3D printing, electronics, and creative engineering transform iconic movie characters like WALL-E into fully functioning robots.

Where Engineering Meets Imagination

What does it take to turn a beloved movie character into a real-life, interactive robot? From the first CAD model to the final fist bump, it takes a unique blend of engineering, creativity, and problem-solving.

A3D Manufacturing sits down with David Ferreira, aka "botbuilderdave," founder of Potentium Design, to explore how he builds functional movie-inspired robots like WALL-E. David shares his journey into robotics, his design and fabrication workflow, and how he combines CAD, 3D printing, electronics, and precision motion to give his creations personality.

You'll also hear about the challenges, unexpected failures, and lessons learned along the way, plus how David uses his robots to bring joy to children, families, and communities. Whether you're an engineer, maker, movie fan, or just curious about robotics, see what happens when technical expertise meets imagination.

Walle at a conference created by Potentium Design

Why Attend?

From CAD to Creation

Discover how CAD, 3D printing, electronics, and fabrication come together to turn movie-inspired designs into functional robots.

Engineering Personality

Learn how precise motion, programming, and creative problem-solving bring iconic characters like WALL-E to life.

Lessons Beyond the Build

Hear real-world challenges, failures, and lessons learned, plus how robotics can create meaningful experiences and inspire others.

Your Speakers

Michael Dymond

Product Manager at A3D Manufacturing

Terence Woo is the Product Manager for Finite Element Analysis at Hawk Ridge Systems. He has extensive experience with the wide range of SOLIDWORKS and SIMULIA analysis tools and has helped our customers solve problems across many industries. He is located at our office in Vancouver, British Columbia. When he isn’t working on simulation models, he spends his free time skiing, golfing, rock-climbing, and playing hockey.

David Ferreira

Designer at Potentium Designs

David Ferreira is a designer, fabricator, and builder at Potentium Designs, based in Virginia. Specializing in bringing iconic characters to life, David transforms creative concepts into fully functional, interactive creations. His work spans the entire process, from initial design and fabrication to advanced control systems and finishing details. His creations come to life through live performances and appearances at conventions around the world.