Disney Imagineering has created a retracting lightsaber

[FlightlessDuck]

Someone on reddit theorized it was made from spooled LED strips like a tape measurer, surrounded by an extensible film sheath

 

[hertamaniac]

Has Disney Built an Actual Working Lightsaber?

 

[fatmanatee]

Someone on reddit theorized it was made from spooled LED strips like a tape measurer, surrounded by an extensible film sheath

Not just a theory... Disney has a patent for this. Anyway now I'm REALLY intrigued by the GS experience.

 

[gharter]

Wonder how long before you can build one of these at Savi's?
Bet they won't be cheap.

 

[Keyser]

I'm assuming you all have seen the Hacksmith retractable lightsaber? But, just in case you haven't: Youtube Video

They also have a "solid blade" version (that would I guess in theory let you fight with another lightsaber, but that one's not retractable).

 

[robododo]

The patent is pretty neat: https://www.theverge.com/2021/4/13/22380919/disney-real-lightsaber-patent-star-wars-ben-ridout

I'm curious about how durable it is. My bet is they only use them for shows and what-not for at least a little while.

 

[The Jackal]

The patent is pretty neat: https://www.theverge.com/2021/4/13/22380919/disney-real-lightsaber-patent-star-wars-ben-ridout

I'm curious about how durable it is. My bet is they only use them for shows and what-not for at least a little while.

It definitely is for show. It works on the same principle as a tape measure. Sure is neat, but not durable for fighting.

 

[Grumpy by Birth]

It works on the same principle as a tape measure.

Which makes me wonder if it will appear 2-dimensional in person.

 

[robododo]

Which makes me wonder if it will appear 2-dimensional in person.

It's a complete cylinder, though. Imagine two tape measures back to back, so they make a completely round shape. I'm guessing that the two halves interlock for strength. A saber, even for show, that the actors cannot swing seems not quite magical enough for Disney.

Think about how floppy really thin cardboard is, but a cardboard tube? That's a play sword for kids (or adults)