Progressing to the 1st tread assembly prototype

After more than 5 iterations on the suspension columns, the first prototype of the tread assembly is on its way to being completed. Many components are still in their first generation, including the acrylic spar, roller wheels and skids, and tread sprockets (not attached). Future work on the spar will involve waterjet cutting it out … Read more

Leg Assembly

March 26th is a big day for the legs team: one full prototype leg was assembled out of all the components that were designed or purchased. Six 3D printed pieces: hip mount, upper and lower half of the upper leg, lower leg, and two motor mounts; four unique shafts machined in the shop, eight gears, … Read more

Initial Suspension Evolution

After starting with a design that could be easily manufactured on a lathe and mill, the evolving needs of the suspension system, particularly the need for compactness, required constant part revisions. Eventually, it became clear that Additive Manufacturing (3D printing) would become the only way to manufacture these parts due to their complex geometries preventing … Read more