Home Practice & Makers 3D-printed Strandbeest: a miniature machine you can build yourself

3D-printed Strandbeest: a miniature machine you can build yourself

The Strandbeest constructions by Dutch artist Theo Jansen have fascinated people for years with their complex mechanics and impressive movement. With a 3D printer and basic electronic components, makers can now create their own, smaller version of these kinetic works of art. Hobbyist Maker 101 shows how this can be done in just a few steps.

The heart of the machine is an Arduino Uno, which serves as the control unit. The electronics are supplemented by an L293D motor driver shield, which drives two DC geared motors. These provide the characteristic movement of the legs. Power is supplied by a 3-cell lithium-polymer battery.

The structure of the mini beach beast consists entirely of 3D-printed parts. Legs, joints and the chassis were created with precisely designed files that are available online.

The control of the Strandbeest is kept simple. Using an infrared sensor that receives signals from a standard IR remote control, the machine can be moved forwards and backwards and turned left or right. This uncomplicated operation makes the Strandbeest accessible even for beginners in the field of Arduino programming.

The design files are freely available online so that anyone interested can start building straight away. Videos and instructions from Maker 101 offer additional support during implementation.


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