How To Make A Theo Jansen Inspired Walking Robot Insect

Make a Theo Jansen inspired walking robot insect. via instructables

I built this Walking Insect, inspired by the creations of Theo Jansen who used a Genetic Algorithm to find a set of linkages to form a leg where the foot moves in a locus suitable for walking. What he came up with has a very organic look to it in the way it moves.

He has used this linkage to produce the most wonderful kinetic sculptures including the Srandbeest. My creation is nowhere near as amazing – but is, I guess more a humble Engineer’s interpretation of his artwork.

The parts were all cut on my CNC Plasma Table, published here as an Instructable, but you could equally well have the parts laser cut – or even cut them out of thick card with a scalpel from the DXF files provided.

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