Build Hydraulic Robot Arm (College Robotics Level)

I’m putting together a clean, neat style project (college) and need a complete, working hydraulic robot arm that can actually pick up small, light objects. The arm has to lift, reach forward and back, then open and close a gripper smoothly; I’d like it to be impressive yet realistic for a classroom final.

I’m free to use almost any safe components—from plastic syringes and clear tubing with water, to small pumps, servos, pulleys, cams, gears or a mixed approach—so feel free to propose the combination that delivers the best performance without looking overly industrial. I also don’t want it to look flimsy or cheap, I want it to look like a manufactured product.

What I need from you
• A detailed design: CAD files or dimensioned drawings that show every joint, bracket and fluid path.
• A complete bill of materials that I can source locally or online, noting exact sizes of syringes/tubing, fittings, fasteners, and any electronics if servos are part of the concept. I can also 3D print and laser cut.
• Step-by-step build instructions written so a student can follow them, with photos or clear diagrams for each stage.
• Simple operating guidelines and any troubleshooting tips so I can present confidently.
• (If electronics are involved) annotated code and wiring diagrams.

Acceptance criteria
1. When built exactly to your plan the arm must lift, reach and grip as described using hydraulic power (with or without small assistive servos).
2. All parts must be safe for a classroom setting—no high-pressure or hazardous fluids.
3. Movements should be smooth and repeatable enough for a demo that lasts several minutes.

If this sounds like your kind of challenge, please outline your proposed mechanism, the tools you’ll use (e.g., Fusion 360, SolidWorks, Arduino), and roughly how many build hours I should expect before submission.