The Comprehensive Guide to Building a Realistic R2-D2 Replica

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Via Makezine.com:

If you’ve been to a Maker Faire you’ve probably come across one or more full-size R2-D2s roaming about or partying with the DJ, chirping and bleeping like the real thing. These robots and other Star Wars “astromech” droids are built by people like myself who are part of the R2 Builders Club. Some of us are crazy for robotics, some just want a screen-accurate replica of their favorite Star Wars droid, and for many of us, it’s both — we love that we can build a real robot that’s an iconic character.

When people encounter R2-D2 they go through stages of surprise, happiness, and curiosity. After a few minutes of ecstatic picture-taking with R2, their curiosity kicks in. “Did you buy it? Did you build it? Is it a kit? How long did it take? Can I build one?”

Yes, you can.

THE R2 BUILDER’S PATH
R2-D2 is not for sale, and there is no complete kit available. However, anyone can build an R2-D2. The R2 Builders Club (R2BC) maintains an official set of blueprints, and our members make and share parts. Don’t worry if you’re not a skilled builder. If you don’t have a particular skill, you can learn it. That’s the Maker spirit. Members of the club are always willing to share knowledge and techniques. If we can do it, so can you.

In this article I’ll walk you through a very typical R2-D2 build, so that you can get started building one too. We’ll focus on a simple and relatively affordable 3-leg, radio control setup, with dome lights and Bluetooth audio; you can always add functionality later. You just won’t believe how much people will love your Artoo.

The R2 Builders Club was started by Dave Everett in 1999 as a Yahoo Group to share information for “those interested in building a replica R2.” Today the club has grown to thousands of members around the world, with a Builders Council to moderate the forums and oversee the club’s official R2 specifications and part suppliers. Anyone is welcome to join, it’s free, and it should be the first step on your journey to building your very own droid.

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