How to Build a Strandbeest Leg

What's a Strandbeest? The Strandbeest, originally made by Theo Janssen, is a walking machine made from PVC tubing that can move along a beach or similar space using wind-power. The version that we created is a recreation of Janssen’s model, where instead of using PVC pipes, we used Fusion 360 to design and create the acrylic pieces that we used to build and construct the acrylic StrandBeest. The making of a Strandbeest is no easy task, attention to detail is key in order to execute the construction flawlessly. Look at the Supplies list below and the pictures above of them in order for you to know what you need to buy specifically and it's quantity. Keep on reading to find out how the Strandbeest is made step by step and further details on this masterpiece.

Supplies

Materials:

Acrylic Sheets

Bolts: ⅜”

Screws: ⅜” x 1 inch, ⅜ “ x 2 inch, ⅜” x 2.5 inch

Nylon Washers (⅜”) shoulder washers

Tools:

Laser Printer and Computer

CAD Fusion 360 software

Drills

Power Saw

Glowforge

5 acrylic sheets (180x120x0.3)

1 acrylic sheets (180x120x0.5)

Step 1: Design

The first step in order to construct the Strandbeest is to design and form the pieces digitally on Fusion 360, a computer app where all types of pieces or tools can be designed and later on printed with a laser cutter. We used the machine called the Glowforge, a laser cutter that cut through pieces of acrylic in order to create the specific pieces for the Strandbeest (see pictures above). So you don't have to take extra time and design the pieces digitally on Fusion 360, we have done it for you. Attached below are the files of the pieces on Fusion 360, all you have to do now is print it on any laser cutter, we recommend the Glowforge. If you do decide to design the pieces on your own, then follow the steps on this website

Once you have printed out all the necessary pieces, you will be set to start constructing the "Strandbeest". Follow the next steps to know exactly what to do.

Step 2: Breaking Acrylic

The next step you need to take to approach the completion of this machine is simple but difficult. You have to cut the acrylic sheets and make them small enough for them to fit in the laser cutter (for us is the glowforge). Cut the acrylic sheets with the size of 20x13cm with a power saw, be sure to mark down lines with any erasable marker so you know exactly where to cut. This is a simple task as you are just slicing the acrylic into smaller pieces so you are able to place it accordingly in the laser cutter. Once you have your pieces cut to the size of your laser cutter, you can now move on to the next step, printing out the pieces.

Step 3: Printing the Pieces

Once you have completed the previous step and have all your acrylic pieces ready, you may proceed to the printing of the pieces. Again this is a simple step as all you need to do is connect your computer with your specific laser cutter (for us is the glowforge) and print out the pieces you created on Fusion 360, or you can use the files we have attached in Step 1. Remember that this process can be done with all types of laser cutters/printers, although our recommendation would be to use the Glowforge.

Step 4: Construction of the Strandbeest

Now that you have all your pieces printed and supplies laid out on the table, you are ready to start putting everything together and construct this machine. As this is a very tedious, detailed, and complicated process, two of our best constructors, Gabriel and Mauricio, will show you specifically how to build the Strandbeest in the video attached below. Don't forget to look at the pictures attached as these will help guide you on what piece goes where.

Step 5: Finishing the Strandbeest

Now that you have an assembled prototype, make sure that it is functional and working. You can test out the movement of the legs by turning it while holding the middle. Make sure that nothing is failing and is in good condition. If something is not working, go back to a previous step to see where you made your mistakes.

Step 6: Completed Product

Step 7: Conclusion

That was how to build a Strandbeest leg. We hope you learn something new and are able to create something similar to our project. If you have any questions or doubts, do not hesitate in contacting us via email: [e-mail] or via Instagram: @strandbeest.mx

- ASFM Equipment Design Class 2019-20