Our BIGGEST project yet! (SPIDER MECH!)

FAQ: Such a huge project makes it impossible to cover everything in one video, so here's a bit more information about why we did things the way we did! - The biggest challenge in this project was integrating and tuning our system, because big hydraulics, heavy frames, and tons of sensors have a lot of variability that needs to be checked. We used an open-source hexapod library to control how it walks, which has been used on much smaller hexarobots, and works great. Once the mechanical system is more reliable, it will be able to walk easily. - A lot of people asked why we didn't make a scale model, and the answer is quite simple. When you get to multi-ton mechs, scale models provide almost no benefit, because you can't build a scale model the same way you have to build a giant steel machine. A toy version using motors wouldn't teach us anything. And if we built a 1/4 or 1/2 scale version, the cost would almost be the same as the full-size megahex -- because all the components required cost approximately the same, small or large (valves, sensors, even hydraulic cylinders don't change too much in size). - This leads into another common fallacy when it comes to science fiction -- Movies like Transformers, or Pacific Rim... simply aren't possible. Doesn't matter how far technology advances, when you get to literal skyscraper sized robots... there's not any materials on earth strong enough to withstand the forces of such a big mech! Everyone's familiar with the common saying "The Bigger They Are, The Harder They Fall". And that really sums it up. Why is it you can drop a cat from a few stories up and it's fine, but it's certain death for humans? Because force multiplies with mass. - Why flat feet? We had planned on designing different feet attachments for it (you can see the holes in the plates for mounting), but for the base foot, we went with a large flat foot with rubber pads on the bottom, as the initial goal is just walking on flat ground. Having a big flat foot helps ensure the foot remains parallel to the frame, and the leg perpendicular to the ground. A pointy or rounded foot would increase the risk of the robot "twisting it's ankle" which is the weakest link in the excavators. They aren't designed for angular forces. - Why didn't we do more FEA calculations? FEA calculations are great, but sometimes are just theoretical for best-case scenarios. For the excavators, we didn't design or manufacture them, which makes them an unknown variable that makes it really hard to calculate things for! - Are we going to revisit it? yes but it might be a while. We want at the very minimum for it to be able to stand up on display, and walk one leg at a time (the slowest, but most stable hexapod gait)

It's insane how you can build something like this. Major props to everyone at Hacksmith Industries :)

I am studying Robotics and I am blown away by how far you were able to get with this thing. I was implementing a closed loop walking algorithm for Hexapod as part of my thesis and I know how hard it is in simulation let alone irl. You have my biggest respect. I hope people will see how much time and love is needed for things around us to work robustly. Thank you for what you are doing.

GIANT ENEMY SPIDER *spitting bars*

The world needs more engineers like you, you serve as an example for young people in this society.

Don't typically do donations like this. I just wanna say thank for taking on this ride.

The sheer amount of dedication, resilience, and tenacity this took was remarkable. It's always painful when the idea in your head takes longer than anticipated. But have to say, the result is one of a kind. Your team pretty much did the impossible! I love the result, or at least the result that was temporary!

I also like how you guys controlled it like senator Armstrong controlling the metal gear he had

Full scale Metal Gear Excelsus, when?

I'm so here for projects like this. Seeing the engineering work, the pride when it was working, the enthusiasm and effort. Yes, it was expensive, and I'm hoping beyond hope that, in the balance, it doesn't leave you in the red.

The fact that this started out as 6 excavators is absolutely mind blowing. I have no words for how cool this is!

As an AutoCAD and Graphic Tech student who loves machinery and engineering but started a little late in life, I’m blown away by not only the patience/knowledge required to step up to this kind of project, but the passion/friendships through this monotonous adventure. Biggest amount of respect to you all, and I wish I could donate to your channel. However, I have followed for more content. You guys are BADAZZ!!! ❤️ 💪

Thanks!

You guys are really doing what nobody else could conceive of accomplishing. The existence of this channel is a huge inspiration for people wanting to get into engineering!

Thanks for pushing boundaries and keeping the inner child alive. Love you guys and keep going!

GIANT ENEMY SPIDER

This is just so incredibly complex... I can't believe what a smart and talented group you guys are! You need to work for NASA!!

I actually really like the fact that you're ok with showing how a project failed, because not only is it a very interesting story on its own, but it also gives us a great look at what working on stuff like this is really like. The fact that no project is guaranteed success makes the ones that do succeed all the more impressive.

Our society needs engineers like this

Y'all get mad props for attempting that. Keep it up guys. & happy new year 🎉