Just finished New Half Mask (Chimp) with Ears 2013:

Front View (teeth exposed fixed position):


Front View (mouth open)


Side View (with mouth open):

Very nice work Lou. Thanks for sharing.

Steve

http://thedummyshoppe.com/blog

Another new 2013 Half Mask. The Joker Half Mask.

Front View:
http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128......5354.jpg

Front View (mouth open):
http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128......5411.jpg

Side View:
http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj128......5411.jpg

Side View (mouth open):
http://s271.photobucket.com/user/maskgee......jpg.html

Seems like I can no longer post pictures here.

The Joker Mask:

Front View:

Front View (mouth open):

Side View:

Side View (mouth open):

Those masks are amazing!

Finally completed, the new Remote Control version of my Big Mouth Mask. Works on 4 AAA batteries. Transmitter works on a rechargeable 4.2V battery using a standard 5V USB cellphone charger. Lightweight!
No more cables, no need to be beside the volunteer. Volunteer can now move freely.
Coming soon July 2013!

Front top:

Back top: (note: I used 4 AA batteries. I will change this to AAA batteries.

Demo video:
http://youtu.be/Ya2HkhH_cvY

Lou -
Great look! A couple of questions:
1. What is the weight of the mask?
2. How big is the controller - can it be hidden in the vent's hand?
3. Are you making different frequencies so more than one mask can be used at a time?

Thinking about my two person routine here - thanks for any info!
Tom

Hi Tom,

Here are my answers:
1. Weight is approximately 370 grams including the 4 AAA batteries.
2. The controller is a 3 channel 2.4GHZ Gun Transmitter. This is the smallest and lightest I can find. No, it cannot be hidden in the hand like a key FOB. It also weighs approximately 370 grams.
3. Yes, there will be different frequencies on every mask.

I cannot use a key FOB because the mouth cannot be controlled precisely for big and small nouns. With this type of transmitter, you can control how wide or small the mouth opens for every word.

Obviously, this is not a magic trick. The audience knows you are controlling the mask (just like the cable version) but it is the way you present it that counts the most.

The transmitter can also be hidden inside a cloth bag where the mask is also placed. In that way, there is a reason to hold it.

I am still thinking of more ideas. Perhaps some of you can share.

On another note for non-ventriloquists: You can use a hidden assistant wearing a wireless mic to talk for the mask with a dialog or impromptu.

Thanks for the info Lou! The video looks great. Congrats on incorporating this advancement.

Finally, found a way to use a key fob for my new remote control puppet mask. I will make an optional "Upper Lip" version. As you can see, I can make 3 actions with the remote as it has 3 buttons ( I removed 2 in the picture). Lower lip, Upper Lip and possibly Wiggling Ears or a light up red nose. A foot switch is another possibility.

This will be rechargeable using a standard 5V USB cellphone charger. Will work 30 to 45 minutes.
Aside from these, it can be operated live mode or it can be pre-programmed.

Next problem: who can afford this? LOL!

The new Hilarious "Smart Alec" Mask. Available in cable or remote (no cable) version.





This is the complete set for the New Remote Controlled (No Cable) Mask. Also includes a carry case.


Upgrade now to the new remote controlled version so you don't look like holding your volunteer's butt all the time. Remote versions of the Big Mouth Mask and Smart Alec Mask will be available November 15, 2013. Please PM for prices. Thanks!

This is a video explaining how the remote control version works. You can control this at a distance of 200 feet. Or use a hidden assistant to control and do the talking.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pDcH-Nb6Gbo

Great Job Lou. You have stayed focused and gotten the mask down to a fine science.

Steve

Thank you Steve!

I have chosen this configuration because the mouth can be controlled accurately. Slight pressure will open the mouth slightly and full downwards will open the mouth fully so that it can follow the exact words. Each mask works on different frequencies and can be controlled up to 200 feet away.

Sean Bogunia is working on the key fob version right now using his latest technology similar to his DeckTR and ITS units. But. . . . that will cost more.

Love it Lou. The key fob version sounds great! Any idea what the cost will be?

The mic is fantastic and it does make sense using it for the one wearing the mask even if the performer has his own headworn mic.

I guess its up to the buyer how he wants to be different.

Maybe ...instead of a mic, the system can be mounted on something similar to a clipboard ala lie detector.

...or that transmitter can be disguised as a funny looking phone or tablet and pretend you are reading questions from it.

In any case... this is fantastic.

Thank you for your kind words, Wanlu!

This is not really a magic trick. Obviously, the audience knows who is controlling it. It is really up to the user on his presentation. One good thing is that the volunteer can now freely move with this mask instead of standing still all the time. Dancing won't be a problem at all. In my act, I make the mouth sync with the song while dancing.
Before I place the mask on the volunteer, I explain to my audience that the mask has the latest state of the art technology. It has a voice changer and will sync with the voice inside. In that way, they never suspect the remote.

maps: I don't have a price yet for the key fob version. Sean Bogunia is still creating the program for it. He wants to make sure that the mouth will open and close with precision. But probably around US$300 more for the key fob version.

I've played around with servos and r/c and they are really fun!

Lou, keep me informed of your remote control mask! I'll love to get my hands on one of them for this year end shows!

A Remote Controlled Custom Made Macho Mask for our good friend, John Pizzi. I can't wait how he will use this in his shows.