These aluminum channels are the building blocks to the Actobotics line and function as the back bone to your electromechanical project. These channels can serve as connection points for servos, motors, and shafts while still providing an easy to assemble structure. Each aluminum channel has exterior dimensions of 1.5" wide by 1.5" tall, interior dimensions of 1.32" wide by 1.41" deep, a 0.09" thick wall, utilize both the 1.5" and 0.77" hub patterns, and are 12" long.
Actobotics is a robotics building system based around extruded aluminum channels, gears, precision shafts, and ball bearings. Thanks to the two standardized hole patterns, nearly all Actobotics components can be intuitively connected together. The wide range of components makes building complex electromechanical prototypes or finished projects a reality.
This skill concerns mechanical and robotics knowledge. You may need to know how mechanical parts interact, how motors work, or how to use motor drivers and controllers.
Skill Level: Noob - You will be required to put together a robotics kit. Necessary parts are included and steps will be easy to follow. You also might encounter basic robotics components like bearings, mounts, or other hardware and need a general idea of how it goes together.
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Whether it's for assembling a kit, hacking an enclosure, or creating your own parts; the DIY skill is all about knowing how to use tools and the techniques associated with them.
Skill Level: Noob - Basic assembly is required. You may need to provide your own basic tools like a screwdriver, hammer or scissors. Power tools or custom parts are not required. Instructions will be included and easy to follow. Sewing may be required, but only with included patterns.
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Backbone is one word, not two... :)
sparkfun, what is going on with this item? Is it discontinued ? It has been out of stock for 2-3 months now? Please can you at least update the status with a valid arrival date?
This 12" channel and the 6" one are the base for building any actobotics. The items have been out of stock for more than a month now. I also check the servocity.com, the same thing, they said that they are going to be back in stock in a couple of weeks. I had to drop my project because I don't really have so much time to waste. Also, sometimes the channels have the hole pattern off so I had a very hard time to screw the different hubs in. As a building system I give it 5 stars, for quality 3 stars. Overall rating 2 stars because extremely annoying "out-of-stock" issues (I had to practically halt my project completely).
Tetrix looks like a substandard twin of this product designed for Lego lovers and children.
looks alot like tetrix