Fischertechnik Recycle Symbol (Green Theme)

How to create a model of the recycling symbol using fischertechnik elements!

I play with different educational manipulatives for a living. (Visit www.weirdrichard.com). Over the years I have built different holiday themed models using all sorts of toys. To celebrate the earth, this instructable will describe how to create a model of the recycling symbol using fischertechnik elements! Building the symbol might get youngsters thinking about a greener way of life!

The universal recycling symbol is a well-recognized image used to designate recyclable materials. It is usually composed of three chasing arrows that form an unending loop. I am modelling a recycling symbol used by Taiwan. This symbol uses negative space to create arrows pointing outward.

Wikipedia's entry on recycling symbols:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Recycling_symbol

Note: The CAD looking images were generated by LDraw/MLCAD and a fischertechnik elements library.

Step 1: Gather Your Parts

You will need to gather your elements. The fischertechnik elements are available from a range of kits available from ebay, Craig's List, or fischertechnik retailers.

Elements can be purchased individually from www.fischertechnik.com.

The List:

4 Angular Block 60 Degrees
8 Angular Block 30 degrees
2 Spring Cams
22 Building Block 30s

Step 2: Upper and Lower Sides

Begin the upper and lower sides of the symbol by creating two stacks of five Building Block 30s connected end-to-end. Note the orientation of the blocks.

Step 3: Right and Left Sides

Construct the left and right sides of the symbol by creating two stacks of four Building Block 30s. Add a Spring Cam into the end slot of both stacks. Note the orientation of the blocks.

Step 4: Make the Arrows

Create an "arrow" by sliding two Angular Block 30 degrees on each side of a Building Block 30. Add an Angular Block 60 Degrees to the end slot of the Building Block 30.(You may have to momentarily adjust one of the Angular Block 30 degrees in order to slide the Angular Block 60 Degrees into the slot).

Make three more arrows using these same parts.

Step 5: Add the Arrows

Center an arrow assembly on each of the four sides.

Step 6: Put It All Together!

Slide the two side assemblies into the upper and lower assembly.

Step 7: Behold the Ft Universal Recycling Symbol!

Congratulations! You have made a variation of the universal recycling symbol!

Your model should look look like this: