Do you have an upcoming project that requires thousands of screws? If so, you’re going to need a screwdriver. And if you’re like “Progress Thailand,” you will want to make one yourself, which they show us how to do using Arduino Nano, a 9g micro servo, and 3D printing!

Here at Vilros, we love this project because pretty much everyone needs to use a screwdriver at some point in their lives, and here’s a way that you can follow Progress Thailand’s lead and make it your very own.

In this design, you’ll have a small-size thumb joystick to give you control. This design can also accommodate a hand driver, which you can use to loosen bolts and nuts.

According to Progress Thailand, a functioning prototype of this tool was made in just one day with an improved, up-leveled version coming out just a few days later – amazing!

Here’s what they say on the Hackaday.io site:

“We are experimenting with different designs to see how close current 3D printing technology can bring us to production-quality tools you can buy in the store. We're also experimenting to see what modifications we can make to store-bought tools to enhance and customize their use.”

So, while it seems that this project won’t yet replace the commercial screwdriver you bought at the hardware store, it still is a fun and functional project that will give you a useful tool at the end. All the files you’ll need to make modifications are available here – so go ahead and make a screwdriver to your own liking!

The Parts You’ll Need
• Arduino Nano
• 9g Servo (you’ll need it modified for continuous rotation. Here’s the tutorial)
• Thumb Joystick (we recommend this model)
• DC Barrel Adapter (make sure to get the Female 35MM)
• Jumper Wires
• 12 X 19MM Rocker Switch
• 2 10MM M3 Bolts
• 2 20MM M3 Bolts
• 2 M3 Washers
• 4 M3 Nuts
• 608zz Bearing (2X) - plus hot glue to attach it to the housing

How to Power Your Screwdriver

It’s best to use a 6V DC adapter, but if you can’t find one, a 5V DC adapter will work well too. If you prefer, you can also use this battery case and a Male adapter like this one.

According to Progress Thailand, they’re also experimenting with AA batteries to try to figure out a cordless version. They want to figure out a practical power source anyone anywhere would be able to easily get. Maybe once you try this project you can help them out with further suggestions?

Other Settings

Progress Thailand reports they used an ExtraBot 3020 printer. The Rafts and Resolution don’t matter, and the Infill is 20-40% with a NA PLA Filament.

To find out more, you’ll definitely want to check out all the details on their Thingiverse webpage. And to see the design process in action – check out this video of theirs on YouTube.

All of us here at Vilros hope you enjoy creating your very own electric screwdriver with the inspiration from this project. For more project ideas, don’t forget to check out updates to our Vilros blog!