Yes, folks! This is version three of my beloved combat robot, GEARHEAD. It is fully 3D printed, except for the electronics, of course. In this guide, I will show you how to make your own combat robot! It may seem like a challenge, but with enough time and money, it’ll be a breeze!

Supplies

-3D Printer
-Electronics (more info in steps)
-CAD Designing software
-Imagination!

Step 1: Designing!

The very first step in designing our very own combat robot is deciding what type of weapon or function you want our bot to have. My bot, GEARHEAD, is an FBS (Full Body Spinner) which uses the outer shielding to inflict damage to the victim. This may sound a bit complex, which it certainly can be, but there are man other types of designs to choose from. For example, there are wedges, vertical spinners, drum spinners, horizontal spinners, hammer-bots, and flippers. The design that we will be focusing on today is the simplest of all of them: the wedge.

To start, you will need to make sure you have access to a 3D printer, cad software, (Tinkercad, Fusion360) and electronics. this step of designing may be tricky, so don't make it so complex!

Step 2: 3D Printing!

For this step, you will of course need a 3D printer that prints materials such as PLA, ABS, or PETG. For my bot, I am using PLA, which works fine. Many other builders prefer tougher materials such as the others listed above. Over all, it is up to you how you would like your bot to look and perform.

Step 3: Electronics!

For electronics, you will need two brushed n20 motors, (12v 600rpm) dual brushed esc, 2+ channel receiver, transmitter, and a LiPo battery (3s 450mah). Just note that these are my hand picked options, which you do not need to follow exactly. This step also requires that you know how to wire up these components properly. If you are struggling with this step, there are many useful guides that are available on YouTube! In the designing process, you should have made the model able to fit and attach your electronics ahead of time.

Step 4: Assembly!

So, this is the fun or stressful part! (depending on who you're asking) This step is all about fitting the electronics into the chassis and screwing parts together. Make sure you have a game plan ahead of time so that you make a minimal amount of mistakes. ;)

Step 5: Testing!

Now this is what I'm talking about! For me, this is the most exciting and fun part of the whole project. You finally get to see what your new bot is made of... Just be safe! It is recommended that you place your bot in a secure area where you are separated from the mayhem. Once you have tested and practiced your new combat robot, it is ready to go; CONGRATULATIONS!

You can see my very first time testing GEARHEAD in the video above...

THANK YOU!