Flamethrower Robot – Arduino Combat Bot

Quick Overview

This project started as a simple challenge between two friends:

Build a combat robot in 2 weeks, with less than €50. Each on our own!

After a lot of brainstorming, I decided to go with a flamethrower.
First, because well… it’s cool
And also because fire can slip into every little gap in the opponent’s defenses.

But attack alone isn’t enough — I also had to think about defense.
I designed a conical shape to reduce grip points and deflect attacks, since I had no idea what my opponent was going to build.

Here’s a first glimpse of the BEAST…

Design & Components

Having the idea is one thing… but how do you actually build it?

The first step was a lot of research to identify the most effective components while staying within the tight budget.

Hardware Used

Why These Choices?

• Arduino Uno: inexpensive, easy to program, perfect for prototyping.
• Bluetooth (HC-05): simple integration, direct smartphone control.
• L298N: allows independent control of both motors (forward/backward/left/right).
• 3D Printing: crucial for custom fuel tank and structural parts.
• Arc Igniter: reliable even in movement, remotely activated, stable ignition.

3D Printing

For this project, I modeled and printed most of the parts: from the robot’s base to the pump that sprays fluid.
I used Fusion 360 for modeling, Bambu Studio slicer, and the Bambu Lab P1P Mini printer (amazing machine btw).

Here are some of the printed parts:
(insert images here)

Challenges Faced

• Time: 2 weeks working only in the evenings — really short, especially with a flamethrower system.
• Power: managing multiple components with a limited battery.
• Budget: everything had to be built from scratch (DIY pump, printed frame, etc.).
• Electronics: learning to handle power, safety, and proper integration.
• The Pump: designing a system able to propel fluid several meters.
  I modeled it from scratch, and even though first tests were with water, it worked — a small victory!

What I Learned

• How to integrate multiple Arduino modules
• Using Bluetooth in embedded projects
• Electronics basics: voltage, current, components, safety
• Managing a technical project under real-world constraints
• Fusion 360 modeling & improving my 3D printing skills

Electronics Schematic

Here’s a schematic of the electronic setup:
(Add a visual here: Fritzing, Lucidchart, or even a hand-drawn diagram)

Final Result

The robot is fully functional:

• Moves in all directions
• Controlled remotely via smartphone
• Flamethrower system works and is safe
• Respected the challenge: < €50, < 2 weeks

But… I still lost 😅

💡 Tip: if you ever set up this kind of challenge, agree on a size and weight limit to avoid unfair advantages!

Gallery

(Add photos here: finished robot, inner parts, flame, 3D prints, tests, etc.)