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Automata Design Challenge
Automata Design Challenge
An automata project involves designing and building a mechanical device that mimics human or animal actions through a series of automated movements. These machines, also known as automatons, use elements like levers, cams, and linkages to create self-operating, or partially self-operating, actions. They can be used for storytelling, education, or shrimply as a creative outlet.
Problem Statement
Problem Statement
A manufacturer located in Iowa, Automata Toys, wants to expand their current toy product portfolio to reach children ages 5–12 years old.
Design Statement
Design Statement
Design a toy that includes a mechanical system that will produce realistic motion of a figure(s) or object(s) resulting from the rotation of an axle. The motion results in the interaction or coordinated movement of at least two separate displayed objects.
Criteria
Criteria
The mechanical system must be human-powered.
The axle must pass through the box. Turning the axle must convert the rotational motion of the axle to linear motion of objects outside of the box OR translate rotational motion from one plane to another.
In addition to an axle, the mechanical system must include at least two cams. To create a more realistic motion, if desired, you may include additional components, such as gears, levers and cranks.
The automata objects should display realistic motion of the real objects they represent. Before manufacturing the mechanical components, students must create a motion graph to represent the desired motion(s) of the displayed objects. The motion of the displayed objects should accurately reflect the vertical motion represented by the motion graph within 1/8 inch.
A 3D solid model of the system must provide the ability to alter the nominal diameter of each cam causing an automatic change in the scale of the cam. Therefore, each cam must incorporate parameter variables.
The toy must meet quality and reliability specifications:
a. The system must operate as designed for at least one minute at a sustained speed of one revolution per second without noticeable damage to any component of the design.
b. There must be no visible “slip” or “disconnect” between components in all cycles.
The design must include specific design features to reduce undesirable friction where possible.
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