CyberRunner: Supporting High School Robotics Through 3D Printing

At the Illinois MakerLab, we're proud to support projects that extend beyond campus and into our local community. One recent collaboration highlights how university resources can help inspire the next generation of engineers and makers.

Professor Sayan Mitra from the UIUC Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering recently partnered with us to produce parts for CyberRunner, a high school robotics project. The project required multiple custom components, including leg assemblies and structural parts, all printed in PLA with 15% infill for the optimal balance of strength and weight.

From Campus to Community

What makes this project special is its mission: bringing hands-on robotics experience to high school students. By providing access to 3D printing technology, Professor Mitra is helping young makers learn about design, iteration, and the practical applications of engineering principles.

The CyberRunner project involved printing eight separate parts across multiple orders, including specialized leg components that required precise tolerances. Our team worked closely with Professor Mitra to ensure each part met the project's specifications.

The Power of Rapid Prototyping

3D printing is transforming how robotics teams operate. Instead of waiting weeks for custom parts or compromising with off-the-shelf components, students can now design exactly what they need and have it printed within days. This rapid iteration cycle is invaluable for learning—students can test ideas, identify problems, and refine their designs quickly.

We printed the CyberRunner parts on both our Ultimaker and Bambu printers, selecting the best option for each component based on size and detail requirements.

Projects like CyberRunner remind us why the MakerLab exists: to help people at every level—from first-time makers to experienced researchers—bring their ideas to life. If you're working on a robotics project, whether for a class, competition, or just for fun, reach out to us. We'd love to help!