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Homebrew technology: Meet Âé¶¹´«Ã½'s junk robot

By Catherine de Lange

1 October 2010

Video: How to make a robot from an old computer fan

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Automatic art

(Image: Dave Stock)

Read more: Homebrew technology: Imagination hacking

Many of us have become used to chucking out an old computer after moving on to a newer, sleeker model. But if you’re about to do so, spare a thought for all the cool inventions you’ll be missing out on. Not sure what we mean? Meet Squigglebot.

Inspired by World Maker Fair, we at Âé¶¹´«Ã½ felt the urge to join the fun and get creative. The result? Using nothing more than a discarded computer fan, some markers and a few bits and pieces, we created our very robot – and it can even draw. The idea came from Maker Faire exhibitor Randy Sarafan, author of , and it turns out building a robot is easier than you might think.

To make your very own Squigglebot, follow the instructions in the video above.

You will need:                   

  • An old computer fan (found in the back of a computer tower)
  • Four marker pens
  • 10 rubber bands
  • 9-volt battery
  • 9-volt battery clip
  • Googly eyes
  • Sticky tape or glue
  • Large sheet of paper
  • Pair of cutting pliers

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