Building Megahex: The World's Largest Rideable Hexapod - A Journey of Trials and Triumphs

TLDRFollow along as we document the challenging journey of building Megahex, the world's largest rideable hexapod. From the initial concept to the final test, we encounter numerous setbacks and obstacles, but persist with determination. In the end, we successfully build and test Megahex, showcasing its incredible capabilities.

Key insights

🔨Building Megahex, the world's largest rideable hexapod, was an ambitious and challenging project that required overcoming numerous obstacles and setbacks.

💡The project evolved from a simple three-month build into a year and a half endeavor, filled with failures, breakdowns, and redesigns.

🚀We faced technical challenges, such as designing a precise hexagonal frame and developing a complex computerized control system for the legs.

🔧The team encountered mechanical issues, hydraulic leaks, and servo failures, requiring troubleshooting and adjustments.

🏆Despite the setbacks, we persevered and successfully built and tested Megahex, showcasing its impressive stability and mobility.

Q&A

How long did it take to build Megahex?

—The project took a year and a half, longer than initially planned due to various challenges and setbacks.

What were the main technical challenges faced?

—The main technical challenges included designing a precise hexagonal frame, developing a computerized control system, and troubleshooting mechanical and hydraulic issues.

Did you encounter any unexpected problems?

—Yes, we faced unexpected problems such as servo failures, hydraulic leaks, and issues with the control system that required significant troubleshooting and adjustments.

What were the key achievements of the project?

—The key achievements of the project include successfully building and testing Megahex, showcasing its stability, mobility, and impressive size.

What was the overall experience like?

—The overall experience was challenging but rewarding. Despite the setbacks and obstacles, the team remained determined and ultimately achieved their goal.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction to the project: Building Megahex, the world's largest rideable hexapod.

01:08The project timeline and initial challenges faced.

02:38The design complexities of the hexagonal frame and motion profiles for each leg.

08:03Integration of the computerized control system and simulation testing.

09:56Initial test and troubleshooting phase.

13:37Continued testing, issues with legs dropping, and mechanical failures.

16:00Addressing mechanical and hydraulic issues, replacing servos, and optimizing code.

18:01Final test and conclusion: Successful build and testing of Megahex.

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