18DOF Aluminum Hexapod Spider with Six Legs 3DOF each Without Servo

DIY 18DOF Aluminum Hexapod Spider Six 3DOF Legs Robot Kit

Power Supply Solution

This 6-legged bionic spider robot is designed to use 18 servo motors working together. Because the instantaneous start/stop current of each servo is high, the power system must be carefully selected. Ordinary low-current adapters are not sufficient.

• Typical Servo Operating Voltage: 5–7 V (do not exceed 7 V)
• Higher voltage within the range gives faster response and higher torque
• Use a high-discharge LiPo/RC battery for mobile operation
• Use a high-power switching DC supply for lab or bench testing

Control Scheme

With a suitable 16-channel or 32-channel servo controller, this hexapod can perform complex coordinated gaits and postures.

• Supports analog and digital servos using standard PWM pulse-width control
• Not suitable for serial-bus-only servo types
• 16-channel or 32-channel PWM servo controller recommended
• 18 channels used for legs; remaining channels can be used for sensors or camera mounts
• PC host software (e.g. C# visual tools) can be used for angle, timing and action programming
• Wireless remote handle can trigger stored action groups in real time (when supported by controller)
• Downloaded action sequences can run offline in a loop when powered

Advanced Control

• Many servo controllers support USB virtual COM-port communication
• Actions can be controlled via host PC software or standard serial tools
• TTL-level serial ports allow direct connection to microcontrollers
• External MCUs (Arduino, STM32, ESP32, etc.) can send serial commands for real-time gait control

Learning Platform

The 6-legged bionic spider robot is a comprehensive learning platform combining:

• Mechanical linkage and structural design
• Electronic power and servo systems
• Automation and control theory
• Computer programming and embedded firmware
• Communication, serial protocols, and real-time control

It is an excellent practice platform for mechatronics, electronics, computer and automation majors, and helps cultivate creative and innovative thinking in students and young makers.

Precautions for Use

• This 6-legged bionic spider robot is not a children’s toy. Teenagers should operate it under supervision.
• Avoid battery or power-supply short circuits to prevent damage, fire or explosion.
• Do not overcharge or over-discharge LiPo batteries; follow charger indicators and manufacturer specs.
• During debugging, ensure servo angles remain within mechanical limits to avoid motor stalling.
• Stalled high-torque servos can overheat and burn out quickly.
• Keep hands and fingers away from moving linkages when powered on.
• Always connect servos with correct polarity: red = positive, black/brown = negative, yellow/white = signal.

Technical Details

Features

Applications :

• Robotics Education: Teaching robotics, kinematics and motion control.
• Research Projects: Gait algorithm, AI and sensor integration experiments.
• Hobbyist Robotics: Advanced multi-legged robot design and programming.
• Surveillance & Exploration: With sensors/cameras for rough terrain and hard-to-reach areas.
• Gaming & Entertainment: Robot competitions or interactive tech shows.
• Prototyping: Platform for search-and-rescue, inspection or industrial automation concepts.
• STEM Workshops: Hands-on practice for STEM training and hackathons.
• Interactive Exhibits: Demonstrations in museums, expos and innovation fairs.

Physical Attributes

Package Includes