This is my rendition of a WWII style Army cot. This kind of cot was used by the Army for many years until a newer version was made sometime after the Vietnam war. The newer type looks very similar but is made from aluminum.
My version features all the functions of the real thing and includes detachable support end bars, folding legs/frame, canvas material, and adjustable tie straps. The wood parts are made from 1/8th" square stock and the brackets are fabricated from sheet aluminum. All the joints and conections use pins as scale rivets. The end bars have holes drilled in them so that they fit onto pegs at the end of the frame.
Figuring out the geometry of how it works was the hardest part. Once I got that solved, I was surprised at how strong and sturdy a structure it makes, while still being very easy to fold. Measurements are: 6.5 x 1.25 x 1 inches folded and 12.75 x 4.75 x 3 inches opened. If you want to try making your own, I've put a pattern for it in the Resouces section. |
