Ahead of Marine Day, BLDB Launches Mechanical Manta Ray Model: First Release of 'Sea God Project'

BLDB (Building Block), known for its adult-oriented metal models, announced on July 16, 2026, the 'Mechanical Mobula Ray Kinetic Model' as the first release of its new series 'Sea God Project,' which reinterprets the forms and movements of marine life through mechanical structures.

Despite being a DIY assembly kit with over 200 metal parts, once completed, the left and right pectoral fins move slowly in sync via motor and gears. The organic, continuous motion is inspired by the graceful glide of manta rays through water.

Unlike static models that merely replicate outer shapes, this product allows users to visually understand 'why this shape swims this way' and 'how rotational force transforms into wing-like motion.'

By removing the magnetic outer shell, users can observe the internal gears and linkage mechanisms, continuing the enjoyment of deciphering the structure even after assembly.

Marine Day in 2026 falls on July 20. Ahead of this season of ocean appreciation, BLDB delivers a single work that combines the aesthetic beauty found in nature with the fascination of hand-assembled machinery.

Design Inspired by the Movement of Manta Rays—Silent and Majestic in Motion

Manta rays move through water as if flying.

With their wide pectoral fins gently rising and falling, they glide across the vast ocean with a beauty distinct from fish that swim by swaying their tails side to side. Despite their large bodies, their movements are surprisingly quiet and graceful.

The concept for the 'Mechanical Mobula Ray Kinetic Model' began with this contrasting impression.

How much of the soft motion of marine life can be expressed using metal, which conveys weight and rigidity?

How can the linear rotation of a motor be converted into the gentle undulation of fins?

Can the very 'movement' that makes a manta ray look like a manta ray be assembled as a mechanical structure, rather than just mimicking its appearance?

In the design, rather than treating the outer silhouette and moving mechanisms separately, the internal gears, left-right synchronization, shell weight, and pivot points were all adjusted as a unified system. Once powered, the completed model activates internal gears, transmitting rotation to the pectoral fins.

The goal is not fast or flashy motion, but smooth movement at a steady rhythm.

Rather than hiding its mechanical nature, the model reveals its metal structure while producing lifelike motion.

This is the kinetic expression the product aims to achieve.

Transforming 'Rotation' into 'Flapping': A Mechanical Model to Observe Power Transmission

Motors are fundamentally devices that rotate a shaft. However, what manta ray fins require is not continuous one-directional rotation. Instead, the broad lateral surfaces must move repeatedly up and down.

This product transmits motor rotation through gears, converting it into fin undulation via multiple components. When powered, small internal gears rotate, causing the fins to move slowly in response.

What appears before the eyes is not mere rotation. Through the coordination of multiple metal parts, a single continuous motion is created.

Which part receives force, around which pivot point movement occurs, and how the left and right fins synchronize—by removing the outer shell after completion, users can observe how input power transforms and propagates through the system.

The charm of mechanical models lies not only in their finished appearance.

Most everyday products that move with the press of a button are designed so their internal mechanisms remain hidden. In contrast, mechanical models make the meshing of gears, rotating shafts, and moving links themselves the object of appreciation.

Assembling mechanisms that are normally concealed, with your own hands.

After completion, being able to review the mechanism again and again.

The 'Mechanical Mobula Ray Kinetic Model' is designed as a single experience combining the satisfaction of completing a model with the intellectual enjoyment of observing mechanical power transmission.

Over 200 Metal Parts: Assembling a Living Entity with Your Own Hands

At the moment the box is opened, there is no sign of a manta ray.

Laid out are over 200 metal parts—each differing in shape and size—along with gears, shafts, fasteners, outer shells, and a dedicated base. Following the instruction manual, selecting parts, confirming their orientation, and attaching them one by one gradually gives form to the internal skeleton and drive mechanism.

What matters in the assembly process is not merely reducing the number of parts.

Distinguishing between similar-looking parts.

Considering the order in which screws are tightened.

Adjusting moving parts to be neither too tight nor too loose.

Checking midway for any imbalance in left-right movement.

Repeating these small checks makes a difference in the final motion.

Before attaching the outer shell, confirm that gears rotate smoothly and that no parts interfere. When powered in its fully assembled state, the previously static metal structure on the desk slowly begins to move its fins.

Completion is not just about achieving the final shape—it is only when it moves for the first time that the work truly becomes complete.

This transformation is a unique experience exclusive to DIY assembly kits, difficult to achieve by simply purchasing a finished product.

Many steps in the process involve parts that will not be visible from the outside once completed. However, for those who assemble it themselves, it becomes clear where the shafts are located, which gears transmit force, and which parts connect the left and right sides.

The resolution with which one views the work changes—that is a major appeal of assembly metal models.

Magnetic Shell Reveals a Second Expression

The outer shell forming the streamlined body uses a magnetic attachment system.

With the shell attached, users enjoy the manta ray’s wide silhouette and lifelike aquatic profile. When removed, the internal gears and frame are revealed, shifting to a mechanical sculpture aesthetic.

The external appearance as a living creature and the internal structure as a machine.

The ability to switch between these two perspectives is a key feature of this product.

No complex wiring or numerous screws need to be removed to secure the shell, making it easy to attach and detach when inspecting the internal structure. This allows not only post-assembly inspection and observation but also changing the display method based on the space or mood.

In the living room, attach the shell to display it as an ocean-themed interior object.

In a study or workspace, remove the shell to showcase it as mechanical art with visible gear motion.

Despite being the same model, its impression changes depending on how it is displayed.

USB-C Power and Dedicated Base: Enjoy Motion in Everyday Spaces

High-quality materials such as LED lighting, 304 stainless steel tubes, and an acrylic base are used. Powered via USB-C port, it can operate anywhere with a USB power source. When placed on the dedicated stand, stable display is ensured.