Thread: Slope walkers - shuttle toy

from what I have seen, and it is very little, these are basically a "balancing" toy wholly dependant on the centre of gravity being constantly shifted, if you have built some already then surely you could just doodle up a design and use the principles of the previous toys as a guide?

Originally Posted by Dave50

from what I have seen, and it is very little, these are basically a "balancing" toy wholly dependant on the centre of gravity being constantly shifted, if you have built some already then surely you could just doodle up a design and use the principles of the previous toys as a guide?

I agree with this. I had a look at what you were talking about on Youtube, and from that, built a prototype (that works!) this morning out of some scrap bits of MDF.

I've attached some images of it, firstly the right way up. Secondly, holding it by the front fixed leg, showing that it is not on the centre of gravity. Thirdly, showing that the rear pivoting leg is at the centre of gravity of the toy.

It looks a little demented because I started off with the idea to make an elephant, but put the pivot too low, so it was top-heavy and kept toppling over. So, I sawed the top off. Now, it's a weirdly shaped walking block.

But it is just a proof of concept. It didn't work very well, but it did work. The things I will do when I build a proper one are:

• have thicker (across from side-to-side) legs relative to the body. I built the whole thing from 9mm MDF, and should have used 12 for the legs and 6 for the body sides
• attach wider feet to the legs, so it doesn't topple sideways as readily
• put the pivot pin a bit higher, so it isn't top-heavy

I've also attached a quick diagram to show the internal essentials. The only moving part is the rear leg.

I hope this helps. Pretty much any animal body that has these features, and has the front and rear legs contacting/striking each other as the toy moves, should do.

Hey Michael, thats the best looking walking block of wood I've seen. Just kidding, The concept of your idea is good and should work on any model made in this fashion.

Michael,
Thanks - the comments were very helpful.

I will post some pics of the roo walker I have made in a few days, may give some ideas to others.
Kind regards,
Bob

I am looking for ideas for the grandchildren and using good old Google have found this source which you may find usefull. Folk Toys: Patterns and Projects for ... - Google Books

cheers

Thanks Pan713, do you know if the book is downloadable (purchasable) in pdf format? - I would like to see what the "walking pig" looks like - if it is a slope walker / trundle toy or a pull a long.

Regards
Bob

Bob,
Its a pull-along, the book is available in paperback from Angus & Robertson for about $19.
Regards
Paul N

Many thanks Paul,
Message in your mail folder.

Bob

I always liked these walking animals, but never did find a pattern either.
There were several photos on some German sites of the finished products.. looking at each of them gives a pretty good idea where/who the movable leg need to be attached.

There's also a turned, walking penguin in some toy books, I've come across him several times.

Juvy

Hi Tennyson,
Are you still looking for plans, I know you wanted farmyard animals but i have plans for a penguin if you are interested. If you are let me know and I will copy them for yoy.
Cheers Elderly.

Hi Elderly, It would be great to get a copy of plans for a penguin - thanks very much.
Bob

G'Day "elderly",
If I may be so bold to also PLEASE, request a copy of the plans too,
thank you.
Cheers, Crowie

Just curious..... are you talking about the little turned penguin or is this one that can be done on the scroll saw?
If it's a scrolled one I'd sure love to have a go at him too!

thanks
Juvy

The plans I have are for the turned one.
Cheers Elderly