Helicopter Automaton

thingiverse

The purpose of this experiment was to create a functioning automaton, defined as a relatively self-operating machine. My partner Shreesh and I were inspired to construct a helicopter automaton. In our design, the helicopter launches up and down and has spinning blades attached. If you have never made an automaton before, this is the project to try out! While our design appears complex and challenging, Solidworks allows for a smooth design process and is the perfect platform for beginners. Here is the link to Shreesh's page: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5219901 In order to create vertical movement, a semi-circular attachment piece was inserted through the left hole at the bottom of the helicopter and capped off with an end piece. Then, this piece was placed atop an eccentric cam (attached to the handle), inside the base of the automaton. To create the spinning mechanism, another semicircular attachment piece was inserted through the helicopter, this time on the right side and with a loose fit, to ensure mobility. At the top of this piece, the blades were twisted on, while at the bottom a regular cam capped off the end. This cam was then placed at a slight angle on top of another eccentric cam. When the handle, equipped with both eccentric cams turned, the helicopter was able to move up and down steadily and the blades were able to spin. The rough dimensions of this project are 20 cm x 8 cm x 16 cm. Design Inspiration: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYcm3Ml2vr8