Skier Using DC Motor

Like the doodlebots, this project uses an offset weight to move. However, what makes this project unique is its ability to 'slide' across surfaces, much like a skier. This is because the toilet paper rolls we use don't have too much friction-- which makes it easier to move. But because they don't have much friction, it also makes the direction in which they move much more unpredictable! The key to solving this is having directional friction-- or more friction on one side than another so your robot moves in a certain direction. You can also experiment with different weight distributions, such as placing your battery in different areas of the skis, to make it go slower or faster.

Supplies

Circuit:

1x DC motor
1x 1.5V AA battery (+ battery holder)
1x bottlecap

Decoration:

1x bottlecap
2x toilet paper rolls
2x plastic straws (or skewers)
cardboard
paper (colored & white)
ribbon
hot glue

Making the Ski Base

Connect the two toilet paper rolls together using hot glue.

Attaching the Skis

Cut out two pieces of cardboard in the shape of skis. Glue white paper on top, then glue the skis to the toilet paper rolls.

Adding the Motor

Glue the DC motor onto the back of the skis. Then, glue the bottlecap to the end of the motor.

Making the Skier

Cut out the shape of a skier (without the head), and glue it onto the back of the battery pack, slightly below the top. Use colored paper to decorate the skier's outfit.

Making the Head

Take your second bottlecap, and glue it at the top of the battery pack to make the head.

Making the Face

Cut out paper eyes and a smile, and glue it on to make the face.

Decorating the Skier

Using ribbon, make a scarf for the skier by wrapping it around the bottom of the bottle cap. Glue a paper hat on top of the head.

Assembling the Final Project

Position the skier in the middle of the toilet paper rolls, so that it stands with its knees and back slightly bent. Glue it down, adding straws under the legs for more stability.

Completing the Circuit

Connect the positive wire from the battery to one end of the motor, and the negative wire to the other end. This will complete the circuit and allow the skier to move. Optionally, cut two smaller pieces of straw to make the skier's poles, and glue it to the hands.