| This model kit from Tamiya allows you to build your own model kit of a sea otter that really swims! He also taps the shell in his hands on his stomach, similar to how real sea otters will smash shells on a rock balanced on their stomach to open it. The gearbox underneath speeds down the rotation of the underwater motor attached to his back, which makes his tail move side to side to propel him through the water. The movement of hitting the shell against his stomach is created with a cam mechanism, and the movement of his feet together with the tail comes from a link mechanism. Assembly leads to an understanding of how the rotary motion of the motor changes to reciprocating motion. The angle of the tail can be adjusted to turn clockwise and counterclockwise. This kit uses "push rivets" that can be fixed by simply pushing them into the tail and legs, and the screw fixing work is very small, so it's perfect for kids. |
