Theo Jansen Mechanism

This project is inspired by the series of kinetic sculptures created by Theo Jansen, as part of his series called Strandbeests.

The mechanism can be understood as multiple 4-bar linkages with a rotor input. It is fascinating to see simple chain linkages in conjunction forming such organic movements.

Visit this link to take a look at more life forms created by Theo Jansen.

Jansen's linkage - Proportions

This was the proportions followed for each of the legs in the mechanism.

Each mechanism has 2 legs of these linkages, and the above model contains 6 such mechanisms. Increasing the mechanisms increases the 'smoothness' of walking.