Spalker

grabcad

This started off as an exercise in learning Solidworks in which I modelled a linkage that I found fascinating that was based on a crane design used in the early 20th century. Once I got it working it occurred to me that the motion could be used to turn a circular motion into a walking motion. Several design iterations later and the walker was born. The design is not particularly elegant in places because I wanted to be able to make it in my workshop, which I did. I have posted a video of it in action. It is currently radio controlled and uses two motors which can go backwards or forwards which enables it to turn on the spot. I would like to develop it further by adding articulation to the center which will improve the steering, and maybe make it autonomous. Feel free to make it for yourself if you wish, but please do not make it for resale as I may wish to develop it as an executive toy or something later. By the way, the name is simply derived from from SPider and wALKER.