Introduction: Spinning Cat Tree
We created a box that would act as a Cat Toy Tree that would be made out of primarily PLA plastic from a 3D printer, along with string and soft cat toys. The CPX will sit on the front of the box. The lights and sounds of the CPX will distract and occupy the cat. A servo motor will be connected to the top of the box where it would spin a pole that has toys on. This product will keep our cat occupied and keep them physically and mentally fit.
Supplies
- Cat toy/ Feathers
- String
- CPX (circuit playground express)
- servo motor
- Battery Pack
- 3PA plastic
- Pine Wood
- Bolts
Step 1: 3D Design
Download and 3D print the following STL files, the files where made in TinkerCAD
Step 2: Python Code
Follow these steps to install CircutPython to CPX
after connecting your CPX to PC or laptop add code.py to it
What the code does
- Rotate the motor clockwise which would spin the toy
- play a sound to get the attention of the cat
- cause an alternating light pattern to appear keeping the cat intrigued
Step 3: How to Add Servo
To add the servo motor to the CPX you will need to either use alligator clips or solder wires to the GND, VOUT, and A2 spaces on your CPX
Step 4: Assembly
Step 1: Get the base of your box, if laser but then insert 3d printed battery case
Step 2: Connect CPX to computer and apply code by following the steps in the Python Code section
Step 3: Drill holes to attach CPX to the front of box
Step 4: Drill Servo Motor to the top of the box and connect wires to CPX
Step 5: Drill or Glue top of box to the base and have the wires inside
Step 6: Attach cat toys to the top of the spinning part which string or glue
Step 7: Drill or Glue spinning part with attached cat toys to the Servo Motor
