[EXTREME3DPRINT] has a new version of their print-in-place tank chassis: the PiPBOT now accepts drop-in motors (in the form of 360° rotation servos), RC receiver, and battery pack to make a functional RC tank platform in no time flat. The design is entirely 3D printed with no supports needed.
This new version is a paid 3D model (and it includes STEP files, thankfully) but the original proof-of-concept print-in-place tank chassis is free and remains a highly clever piece of design that really shows off what is possible when one plays to a 3D printer’s strengths.
A better look at the design’s details can be found on the designer’s website, and a short video demonstrating assembly and operation is embedded below. We particularly like the attachment points on the top of the PiPBOT, which allows for securely mounting all kinds of customized payloads.
Interested in this style of printable RC platform, but want something a little more accessible? If race cars are more your thing, we’d like to also mention the Gamma 2.0 by [Under Engineered]. It’s a print-in-place RC car that needs minimal parts to get rolling and would make an excellent afternoon project.
That’s pretty cool…
Unless I’m getting it wrong the 4 lug ‘gear’ is missing half its teeth, I wonder why
It seems not to be a gear. Watch the video. it does not move. The still image fooled me too but the video makes this clear.
The caterpillar seems useless in this build. It’s way to small and rigid for any obstacle crossing.
I’d not call it useless on first viewing. For something this size I’d think it will perform about as well as can be expected at obstacles (which is to say not hugely impressive from a human scale perspective, but at this small size human scale obstacles are always going to be tough) and does still spread the load of the platform. Which means running on soft ground will be better than wheels would be.
Even is it was useless. It is an impressive print design. Torq and area vs wheels? Not a factor?
The point of this robot is the novelty of “print in place” then construct using origami. I doubt it has any other practical use. It like those print in place ball bearings. They are not very usfull and real bearing are cheap on Amazon but still printed bearings are cool.
aannd its on my printer now