Making an Impressive Working Robotic Arm from Cardboard
Source: makezine.com
This project demonstrates how to build a fully functional robotic arm using hydraulics powered by water-filled syringes. The structure is crafted primarily from recycled materials like cardboard, popsicle sticks, and household items, utilizing syringes to translate fluid pressure into mechanical motion.
Categorisation
Stage 3: Architect (11-13+)Systemic & Design ThinkingUnplugged / Paper-BasedTabletop & Physical PropsArts & Crafts
Props & Materials Required
- •Cardboard
- •8 10ml syringes with rubber pistons
- •Dead AA battery
- •4 lengths of clear plastic hosing
- •Popsicle sticks
- •Super glue
- •Water
- •Empty soda can
- •Wooden skewers
- •Paper clips
- •Zip-ties
- •Ruler
- •Box knife
- •Pencil
- •Scissors
- •Hot glue gun
- •Pliers/snips
Why It Works & Notes
Parent Note:
Hydraulics, fluid dynamics, mechanical advantage, structural engineering, and basic robotics design.