Tamiya 71115 Sliding Mouse - Vibrating STEM Robot Kit  [71115]

Sliding Mouse Kit for Hands-On STEM

The Tamiya 71115 Sliding Mouse gives beginners a practical look at motion and simple mechanics. This compact Robocraft-style kit is built to spark curiosity in classrooms and at the workbench while demonstrating vibration-driven locomotion.

Vibrating Drive Mechanism

A Type 130 motor spins a cylindrical plate with an off-center weight to create rapid vibrations. Those vibrations transfer through three angled rods to produce the Sliding Mouse's forward glide, while the model's eye rollers help it negotiate small bumps.

Assembly and Tuning

Construction is straightforward, combining snap-fit parts with a few screws for a tidy finish. Builders can experiment with rod angles to influence speed and turning behaviour, learning cause and effect with each tweak. Best performance is achieved on smooth, flat surfaces.

Educational Play Value

Beyond mechanics, the animal-like body encourages imaginative scenarios that blend play with learning. Note that the kit needs one R1/AAA/UM4 battery, which is not included.