Student builds Disney BD-X Star Wars droid using lawn mower battery under $3K

Engineering student Kayden Knapik built a $2,800 open-source BD-X-inspired Star Wars droid for his thesis.

The bipedal robot uses consumer hardware, 3D-printed and machined parts, Robstride motors, and a lawn mower battery.

With simulation-trained control software, it can walk, balance, respond to commands, and express emotion.

Knapik released the design files publicly on GitHub, making advanced robotics more accessible.