Hexapod Explorer 3D Wood Model Kit Introducing the Ugears Hexapod Explorer: part insect, part robot, part extraterrestrial rover. Driven by a powerful spring motor, the Hexapod Explorer can walk up to 3 meters on its legs, without the need of an auxiliary or supporting wheel like other models have. The ability to bear its weight, on the legs alone, allows the Hexapod Explorer to navigate slightly rough terrain, like a planetary rover stepping out of the capsule to explore new worlds. Another amazing feature that makes our walker unique is that the Hexapod Explorer comes with a variable speed dial. This DIY Hexapod Explorer takes its place as champion walker among Ugears' amazing family of mechanoids, automatons, 3D puzzles, and wooden mechanical marvels. We've created a purely mechanical, wooden walking robot, without electronic components. At Ugears we believe design should be elegant, in every sense of the word—simple, smart, and beautiful to look at. The Hexapod Explorer wooden model kit has 388 pieces and features a strong metal spring that powers the robot's walking action, and rubber band foot pads for better traction on smooth surfaces. This DIY model is rated Medium level with an assembly time of approximately 8 hours. The internal spring is wound with a ratchet key located on the belly. With a ratchet mechanism, you don't have to hold the key while winding to prevent slippage—potential energy is stored with each twist, without slippage, until the spring is fully loaded. The Hexapod Explorer can traverse rough surfaces and even step over obstacles of 1-2 cm. Crank the model up, set it down, choose the desired speed using the dial on the Hexapod's head, then release the "go" switch at the rear to set the model in motion. You can change speeds at any time, either mid-run or on the next go. Are you looking for a cool, creepy-crawly Halloween toy or decoration? Do you have a child, a niece or nephew, or a neighbor who is into robotics? Kids and adults will love building the Hexapod Explorer and seeing it come to life as it takes its first skittering steps. Building Ugears models is a great way to learn basic principles of science and engineering, including principles from biology like animal locomotion. We love it when families come together to work on a Ugears project. When parents and children spend time assembling a cool mechanical toy like the Hexapod Explorer they get to experience the satisfaction of creating something together, then the fun of playing with it together. Building models is also a great way to develop mechanical competence, learn how to problem-solve, and learn how to follow detailed, illustrated instructions (a useful skill for kids and adults). The Ugears Hexapod Explorer is a unique gift idea for friends or family members who love nature, insects, robots, model building, DIY projects, puzzles, or for anyone who appreciates outstanding mechanical and aesthetic design. Model Size: 10.6 x 8.7 x 3.7 inPackage size: 14.9 x 6.7 x 1.1 inNumber of parts: 388Level: IntermediateAssembly Time: 8 hoursRecommended Age: 14+Kit weight: 1.56 lbs UGEARS is a 2014 Ukrainian startup with a growing worldwide reputation for producing unique, self-propelled, wooden mechanical DIY models, puzzle boxes and educational toys. Each UGEARS model has its own mechanical action that will amaze and delight. UGEARS model kits come with everything you need for assembly. All parts are laser pre-cut into a high-quality plywood board for easy removal and assembly. Motion is accomplished using rubber bands, gears and gravity. Detailed color diagrams and step-by-step instructions are provided in 11 languages to guide you through the assembly process. No glue, special expertise, tools or equipment are required. Customer service is available 24/7, with spare parts provided and shipped free of charge. UGEARS models are works of art, marvels of mechanical engineering, and surefire conversation starters. Most models have real world analogues, others are imagination brought to life. These eye-catching beauties are ideal for display in the home or office, but they are so much more! Each UGEARS model and puzzle box has its own unique and enchanting mechanical action, to delight your family and friends. Constructors will find satisfaction in bringing the models into being with their own hands, experiencing the magical moment of "birth" when the model shows the first spark of life. UGEARS models and 3D puzzles make the beautiful world of mechanics more comprehensible. You will be able to touch every piece, every gear cog, and discover first-hand the workings of simple machines. Experience the thrill of self-propelled mechanical action that doesn't come from an electric socket or battery. Take a voyage to a previous century, to an age of elegant machines, fine detail and old-world craftsmanship, and rediscover the pleasure of understanding how things work. UGEARS make a wonderful hobby for constructors, and a thoughtful gift for just about anyone in your life. Our mechanical models and puzzle boxes come in three skill levels: EASY, MEDIUM and ADVANCED. Warning: our beautiful, timeless machines and mechanical puzzles can be addictive, and you may find your collection growing as you move on to more challenging builds! UGEARS products require no glue, but we like to say there will be bonding—the bonding of family and friends working together to bring these mechanical marvels to life.
