Merge Grantee Santiago Del Solar demos Real-Life Iron Man Suit at Symposium
Santiago Del Solar, a Merge Grantee, showcased his 3D-printed exoskeleton at Symposium, the largest student-led world's fair ever.
(credit to @freemanjiangg for photo)
Merge Grantee Santiago Del Solar was recently selected as one of 10 people to demo his project at Symposium — the largest student-led world's fair ever.
There, he unveiled the Exo Ranger: a 3D-printed exoskeleton designed to enhance strength and accuracy. Though just two months into development, it's an impressive 3D-printed foundation for his planned strength-augmenting system.
Santiago started with a $1,000 Merge Grant. This support let him pursue what most would call science fiction. His fast learning and past hardware experience convinced us he was the right person for the task.
About Santiago
(photo credit to @raenytuesdayart)
Santiago's story begins in Peru, where as a young boy, he idolized inventors—"people who take their ideas and create something new for everyone." Without access to formal robotics programs, Santiago found his own path by dismantling broken household items and transforming them into new creations.
"Everything around us was invented by somebody," Santiago said at Symposium. "Your phone or the car you drive—someone created it. I always wanted to use my hands to build new things."
Iron Man inspired his work. He started with simple materials: cardboard prototypes and homemade arc reactors using LEDs bought from puzzled hardware store workers. These early projects pointed to his bigger vision.
Santiago's determination led him to acquire his first 3D printer, opening new possibilities for fabrication at home. He eventually started a 3D printing business to fund better equipment and relocated to Canada, where he secured an internship at Hacksmith Industries, which expanded his technical knowledge.
What's Next for the Real-Life Iron Man?
(photo credit @julianweisser)
Santiago is now improving the Exo Ranger. He's adding strength-enhancing features to transform it from a basic frame to a power-boosting system. His goal is building a complete exoskeleton like the Iron Man suit that inspired him as a child in Peru.
This is exactly the type of ambitious project Merge Grants supports.
We'll share updates on Santiago's progress and other grantees' achievements.
Merge helps exceptional builders pursue ambitious projects. Email us if you want to support the next Santiago and become a Founding Funder.