UGears Hexapod Explorer

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 in
Package size: 14.9 x 6.7 x 1.1 in
Number of parts: 388
Level: Intermediate
Assembly Time: 8 hours
Recommended Age: 14+