Mechanisms
Build a scissor linkage mechanism with the Hummingbird Robotics Kit! To begin this project, we will need to create the cross arm supports for the scissor linkage mechanism. In our design, we made them 1″ x 9″ in dimension but you can make yours larger or smaller. Use a ruler and sharpie to create the outline of these supports.
Pro Tip: Not all cardboard is created equal. We found some scrap cardboard but it was very thin and lightweight. In order to make it stronger, we laminated two pieces of cardboard together using hot glue. This took a piece of 1/8″ thick cardboard and created cardboard 1/4″ in thickness. Some projects require material with extra structure and this is a simple way to do it. Also, instead of using cardboard, you can substitute large popsicle sticks in place of it. This will however require a drill or heavy duty punch in order to make the holes in future steps.
Once the cardboard cross arm supports are cut, you will need to measure where the brass brads will be placed. Measure to find the middle and draw a line the length of the support. Next, draw another line to indicate the center in addition to spots on each end that are 1″ in from the edge. Cut an “X” where the lines intersect. You should have (3) “X” cuts on each support arm.
Place one support arm on top of another in an “X” formation. Remove the middle brass brad from the bottom support arm. Push the middle brass brad from the top arm through the middle hole in the bottom arm and then bend the back of the brad to lock it in place. Follow these steps again to make the next scissor linkage structure. Grab the bottom legs of each structure and move them inward to make sure that they both move freely.
At this point, you should have created (2) separate scissor linkage mechanisms. Place one of the “X”s on top of the other and connect them using the brass brads. Make sure they are connected as shown in the photo to ensure a smooth movement. Push the bottom legs together to make sure the entire mechanism rises and lowers correctly.
If you want to see this scissor linkage mechanism in motion, see our blog post on converting rotation to linear motion.
Also, make sure to check out our Hummingbird build page for other great mechanisms you can use for future BirdBrain projects.