Hey Remy!

Automata Box

Project Length - 5 weeks

Design Insights

Design Goals

The goal of this project was to design a Montessori-style automata toy that creates multiple mechanical actions from one crank. I focused on building a functional Ratatouille kitchen scene using only joinery, with no glue, to make it feel like a real, manufacturable toy.

Learning Outcomes

I learned how to use laser cutting to create precise parts that fit together accurately for smooth mechanical movement. Additionally, I gained a deeper understanding of cam engineering to design the timing and sequence of multiple actions driven by one crank.

Target Audience

Kids

  • Sold to Disney for kids ages 8-13, especially fans of Ratatouille.

Inspiration

  • Montessori learning was the main inspiration for this design.

  • Emulating learning styles Kiwi Co. and Crunch labs

Constraints

  • I set my own constraints for my design

  • No glue, easy assembly, and manufacturable.

Concept Art

Prototypes

Refined Prototypes

Fusion Prototypes

3D printed dowel rod adapters

Illustrator Cut Files

  • Honed in on the tolerances

  • Snug no-glue assembly as well

  • Perfecting cam timings.

Final Products

Start

The hat starts up, revealing Remy. Chef Skinner is out of the kitchen.

End

The hat goes down, concealing Remy. Chef Skinner comes in Scene. Subtle Lid movement up and down.

Packaging

All Assembled

With the box complete, kids can play all day with this toy. This wooden STEM toy is fun from assembly to completion, all while teaching kids about mechanical engineering and design. Most importantly this toy gets kids into making, with its easy assembly kids would be encouraged to explore more hands-on projects.