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Sep 2nd, 2022
Build a Cardboard Automata
By:
Fluxspace
🎓 Grade Level —
K-6
⌛ Time to Read —
3 min
📥 Includes —
Overview, Guide
Materials
How To?
PDF

Build a Cardboard Automata

AI Summary:

To construct a basic cardboard automaton, begin by cutting five identical rectangular pieces of cardboard and puncturing a hole in the center of four of them. Assemble these into a box, ensuring the piece without a hole serves as the base. Next, prepare two circular cardboard disks, placing an off-center hole in one, and attach wooden dowels to these disks. Integrate all components as depicted in reference diagrams. To complete the mechanism, craft a character figure to mount atop the structure, ensuring it is positioned approximately five inches above the base. Reinforce the structure with triangular cardboard supports if necessary, then secure and test the assembly through rotational motion.

How To:
Build a Cardboard Automata
  1. Cut out five identical cardboard rectangles.
  2. Poke a hole in the center of four of the rectangles.
  3. Tape the pieces together to form a box.
    • Make sure the rectangle without a hole is on the bottom.
  4. Cut out two cardboard circles.
    • Make a hole off-center on one of the circles.
  5. Glue wooden dowels to the circles as shown in the diagram.
  6. Assemble all the pieces together as shown!

But that’s not all...

     7. Make a character to go on top!

  • Make sure the character and the off-center circle are only about 5 inches apart.
  • Cut out small triangular cardboard pieces for extra support, if needed.
  • Glue the character to the center.

Now twist it — and watch it move! 🎉

Project Examples

Have a solution to this challenge you want to share? Take a photo or video of your prototype, post it on social media, and don’t forget to tag us @fluxspace_io

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