Society of Robots - Robot Forum

Mechanics and Construction => Mechanics and Construction => Topic started by: skepticalmalamute on July 03, 2015, 03:07:39 PM

Title: First Time Building from scratch, building arduino controlled robotic arm
Post by: skepticalmalamute on July 03, 2015, 03:07:39 PM

I was wondering what materials I should use to build the chassis of the arm. I don't have any metal or woodworking tools.

Title: Re: First Time Building from scratch, building arduino controlled robotic arm
Post by: artbyrobot1 on July 10, 2015, 03:22:35 PM

I'd recommend doing what I'm doing - use modeling clay to sculpt parts, then coat the clay in either thread or cloth dipped in glue to form a hard shell.  You can cut the shell in half to remove the clay after and then glue it back together or leave the clay inside if you don't care about the weight.

Title: Re: First Time Building from scratch, building arduino controlled robotic arm
Post by: mklrobo on July 11, 2015, 12:49:04 AM

 Hello!
I would build upon what artbyrobot1 said;
You can make your chassis with fiberglass, cheaply. Light as a feather, stronger than steel,
the result is amazing. Check out Instructables site; it has the steps for this. Good Luck!!  ;) :) :D ;D

Title: Re: First Time Building from scratch, building arduino controlled robotic arm
Post by: artbyrobot1 on July 11, 2015, 02:02:47 AM

Yep fiberglass cloth can usually be found in the car section of walmart or stores like it right next to the bondo.  Also, for the resin, stay away from polyester resin or w/e just buy the double syringe looking toothpaste tube size epoxy from any hardware store to use as the resin.

Title: Re: First Time Building from scratch, building arduino controlled robotic arm
Post by: cyberjeff on July 24, 2015, 05:57:46 AM

Quote from: artbyrobot1 on July 10, 2015, 03:22:35 PM

I'd recommend doing what I'm doing - use modeling clay to sculpt parts, then coat the clay in either thread or cloth dipped in glue to form a hard shell.  You can cut the shell in half to remove the clay after and then glue it back together or leave the clay inside if you don't care about the weight.

An interesting idea. You may be able to wash out the clay.

On a related note you may wish to try either burlap (for reinforced strength) or cheesecloth (for details)