Joker Tank

For this project about the Chernobyl disaster for HBO and SKY, we drew up in 3D the German robot whimsically named the “Joker.” Most of the parts and components were CNC machined in-house, with a few purchased parts to finish. The main body was fabricated in aircraft-grade aluminium with a steel chassis, chemical wood, composite panels, and plastic machined parts.

We designed the robot to have a poseable arm, grabber, and turret. As the real robot never actually worked in anger, there was no need for an engine. All of the components were spray-painted to finish. We made the whole model as lightweight and strong as possible, as it needed to be lifted onto set by a crane with a bomb release to simulate the helicopter dropping it into position.