3D Printing Brings AT-AT Mech to Life: YouTuber Builds a Ridable Star Wars Walker
Ever imagined using 3D printing to create a functional, ridable AT-AT walker straight from Star Wars? YouTuber James Bruton has done just that, sharing his impressive engineering project through a demonstration video on his channel.
In this ambitious build, Bruton tackled the challenge of recreating the iconic AT-AT, tweaking the design to make it stable enough to ride. Unlike the movie version, where the legs often failed under stress, his 3D-printed model has knees that face outward to improve balance. If you’re unfamiliar with this famous flaw, the collapse of AT-AT walkers in Empire Strikes Back has been widely discussed since the film’s 1980 release.
The heart of this mech’s success lies in its innovative use of motors and engineering. Each leg segment is powered by two brushed motors with gearheads, allowing for enough strength to support Bruton’s weight. Additionally, the mech’s legs feature potentiometers that enhance its range of motion despite the inherent design limitations of an AT-AT.
While most of the frame and components were 3D printed, the system also includes key electrical parts, such as batteries and motors. Surprisingly, the overall power demand is minimal, with joints powered by an RJ-45 ethernet cable, typically used for networking rather than mechanical movements.
Despite its fully functional build, the AT-AT’s walking speed maxed out at a snail-like 0.037 miles per hour. Though this may seem slow, it’s in line with the lumbering movement of the original AT-ATs, whose immense strides allowed them to cover more ground.
In conclusion, Bruton’s 3D-printed AT-AT mech is a remarkable blend of engineering ingenuity and fan dedication. His project proves that, with a little creativity and technical know-how, even the most iconic sci-fi machines can become reality—though at a much smaller scale!
