Lasercut Cardboard Toy Hovercraft

grabcad

This toy hovercraft was developed with easy construction and optimal performance in mind, as demonstrated through workshops for children aged 6 to 12 years old (see video). Originally made from 5mm Depron, the design has been simplified using laser-cutting techniques on more accessible corrugated cardboard. The included SVG design is tailored for 2.5 mm corrugated cardboard, adaptable to 3 mm if needed. Laser cutting creates bending lines and guidelines for cutting plastic bag "skirts." Given the size matters in hovercraft performance, this design maximizes a Ponoko P2 template. The heavier cardboard provides enough space for two AA alkaline batteries, replaceable with two AAA batteries for an additional 20g weight. Extra materials include scotch tape, a 44 x 60 cm light plastic bag, a 5" or 125mm diameter "Günther" stile prop, a small R20 or Re 140 DC motor with two AAA alkaline batteries and a battery holder, switch, and wires. An upcoming Instructable will cover the complete build process.