This is the easiest hydraulic-powered machine to build, and the project idea process is straightforward: create a hydraulic-powered hinge, and then customize its function. And of course, learn about the science and engineering behind hydraulic power!
Supply List (specialty materials can be found on Amazon)
All STEM Inventions projects share the same set of materials
(8-20) craft sticks
(3-10) 1/2” craft cubes
Syringe, tubing, and syringe adapter kit
(2) 4” cable ties
Hot glue gun
Masking tape
Optional: Small plastic wheels, 1/8" dowels, straws, paperclips, rubber bands, clothespins, or any other material for customizing.
STEM Inventions
STEM Inventions is a project by me, Lance Akiyama. Since 2011, I've developed original science and engineering activities, starting with an after school business that I founded and operated until 2015. I've held a full-time role as the Science Curriculum Manager at Galileo Learning, where I created design thinking-based lessons and pet robots. I'm a long-time contributor to Instructables.com, and I've published four DIY project books with Rockport Publishers. STEM Inventions projects were developed in after school classes and summer camps over several years. All projects use the same set of just 20 different materials and 2 tools to make supply purchasing and management easier.
STEM Inventions