# I made an Auto-Trick Skateboard vs Pro-Skater Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MJxz-540WL0 Recap page: https://rapidrecap.app/video/MJxz-540WL0 Generated: 2025-07-25T00:03:41.639+00:00 --- ## Quick Overview The creator successfully built a functional skateboard that can perform auto-tricks, mimicking the moves of professional skateboarders. While the initial attempts at replicating ollies and kickflips were clumsy, further adjustments and practice with the drone-powered skateboard allowed for increasingly complex maneuvers, ultimately demonstrating a working prototype that can perform tricks autonomously. **Key Points:** - The creator successfully built a skateboard that can perform tricks autonomously, including ollies and kickflips. - The project utilized four EDF ducted fans and a CO2 propulsion system to achieve lift and maneuverability. - A PlayStation controller was used to interface with the skateboard's control system. - Initial attempts were challenging due to issues with timing, stability, and replicating the precision of human skateboarders. - The creator consulted with professional skateboarder Bam Margera for insights into trick execution. - Despite early failures, the creator refined the design and programming, eventually achieving successful auto-tricks. - The final prototype demonstrates a functional concept of an automated skateboarding machine. ![Screenshot at 00:13: The creator stands with their custom-built 'auto-trick' skateboard at a skatepark, ready to demonstrate its capabilities.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/MJxz-540WL0/00-00-13.png) **Context:** This video documents a DIY project where the creator attempts to build a skateboard capable of performing skateboarding tricks autonomously. Drawing inspiration from professional skateboarders and video games like Tony Hawk's Pro Skater, the creator aims to replicate complex maneuvers such as ollies and kickflips using drone technology and a custom-built system controlled by a PlayStation controller. The process involves integrating powerful fans, a CO2 propulsion system, and sophisticated electronics onto a standard skateboard deck. ## Detailed Analysis The video details the process of building a skateboard that can perform tricks automatically, essentially a "robot skateboard." The creator starts by explaining the concept and the desire to create a board that can mimic professional skateboarders' moves, like ollies and kickflips. They showcase various components, including powerful EDF ducted fans, a CO2 cartridge for propulsion, and a PlayStation controller for input. The build process involves attaching the fans to the skateboard, wiring the electronics, and programming the board. Early tests show some instability and difficulty in controlling the board for precise tricks. The creator struggles with timing the release of the CO2 and coordinating the fans to execute a clean kickflip. After several attempts and adjustments, including 3D printing custom parts and refining the programming, they manage to achieve a basic auto-ollie. The video contrasts these automated tricks with actual skateboarding footage, highlighting the complexity of human execution. The creator also consults with an experienced skateboarder, Bam Margera, to understand the nuances of performing tricks like ollies and kickflips. Despite the challenges and failures, the project demonstrates the potential of combining robotics and extreme sports, with the final successful auto-kickflip serving as the culmination of the build. ### Concept and Goal - Building a skateboard that performs tricks automatically using drone technology. ### Component Selection - Four EDF ducted fans, CO2 cartridge, solenoid valve, microcontroller, PlayStation controller, and a standard skateboard. ### Build Process - Attaching fans, wiring electronics, programming the board for autonomous trick execution. ### Testing and Iteration - Initial failed attempts at ollies and kickflips due to timing and stability issues, leading to adjustments. ### Expert Consultation - Seeking advice from professional skateboarder Bam Margera on trick execution. ### Successful Demonstration - Achieving a functional auto-kickflip and other basic maneuvers. ### Challenges and Limitations - Difficulty in replicating the precision and timing of human skateboarders. ![Screenshot at 00:01: A skateboarder performing a trick in a city environment, illustrating the target skill.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/MJxz-540WL0/00-00-01.png) ![Screenshot at 00:13: The creator standing with the experimental skateboard at a skatepark.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/MJxz-540WL0/00-00-13.png) ![Screenshot at 00:37: Two individuals examining the underside of the skateboard, showing the integrated components.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/MJxz-540WL0/00-00-37.png) ![Screenshot at 01:37: Close-up of an EDF \(Electric Ducted Fan\) unit, highlighting the powerful propulsion system.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/MJxz-540WL0/00-01-37.png) ![Screenshot at 02:05: The creator testing the skateboard's lift-off capability on a lawn.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/MJxz-540WL0/00-02-05.png) ![Screenshot at 02:37: The creator securing the skateboard to the ground with tethers for safety during testing.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/MJxz-540WL0/00-02-37.png) ![Screenshot at 03:22: The creator holding a CO2 cartridge and solenoid valve, key components for the pneumatic system.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/MJxz-540WL0/00-03-22.png) ![Screenshot at 04:44: A split-screen showing the auto-trick skateboard's ollie versus a human performing an ollie.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/MJxz-540WL0/00-04-44.png) ![Screenshot at 06:34: A 3D-printed piston designed to be more durable than the initial version.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/MJxz-540WL0/00-06-34.png) ![Screenshot at 08:19: The creator explaining the project to another skateboarder at a skatepark, holding the finished skateboard.](https://ss.rapidrecap.app/screens/MJxz-540WL0/00-08-19.png)