Yes it does that well.

I still wonder, , , If I wanted to make a R2D2 it would be a lot of work to duplicate what is here.

I still will think on it. We normally throw most motors, electronics etc. away anyway.

Opinions requested.. Richard R, Steve G, Rich, I what do you guys think ?

Ron R

@ Jeremie , I have a friend that did Halloween with me who uses smoke machines for some of the displays. I will stop by his farm and get some of the "Smoke Juice" he uses and see if I can make it work by a nichrome coil and a fan, or something like that. Due to the upcoming holiday, it may be a day or two.

Ron R

To All,.

The wife likes it, I guess it stays. ..LOL..

I will post pictures of tear down in the next couple of days.

Ron R

@Ron.

I would suggest that you keep it too. All of the hacking would mainly be done on the inside so you wouldn't ruin it's looks. I look forward to see how you will tackle it.

Hi Steve, Yeah, I think it will be fun. The best part is the wife likes it too. LOL

I haven't taken it apart yet but I took a fast look at it and I think it was designed to be an interactive toy. I think I see places under the dome where leds would be located. Even though the foot bottoms are flat, it looks like the foot pods were made to have wheels. Once I tear it down I will see what can be done.

The arms are moveable which will allow me to pivot the body and install a front leg for stability and help with the steering.( I guess just a caster). I plan on 3d printing the front leg unless I find something lying around that fits. I did a quick search of the local club sites to get quick ideas. After the holiday later this week, I will look at what I have to work with, and begin a plan.

Regards,

Ron R

Quick update,,

I pulled the R2D2 apart and it looks like I was right about the original concept of design being motorized. The dome has a ring gear and mounting for a gear box on a bearing tray. There are also mountings for LEDs and the large "blue eye" comes out as one piece, which allows an easy hack for lights or camera mounting.

The body has some areas that also allow removal.

The legs have some kind of strut inside. Though the bottom of the foot is solid, it may allow an easy wheel mounting.

I couldn't take pictures this morning, but I will start a new post showing what is inside. I am curious if this is the shell from the old Hasbro unit or the same molds were used.

I found a front foot on the net and will modify and print one out. Once I get it right I will post the .STL. The mount will come later.

I guess it wasn't a bad investment for a hack after all.

Ron R

@Ron.

You defiantly should start your own project showcase thread as I t'll be great to see the mods you make step by step.

I can't wait to see the break down!

On an unrelated note if anyone knows of a big ( not the little ones but at least foot high) ED-209 let me know I am dying to hack him as well and don't feel like making one from scrap