Introduction: CatBot: Automated Cat Laser
Using two servos, an Arduino and a cheap $3 laser you can provide your cat with endless fun.
Video of the CatBot in all of it's Laser Zeppelin glory below:
Step 1: The Problem
I was buying pet food and saw a $3 laser from PetCo. I thought the cat might like it. I was wrong. The cat became obsessed. Constantly grabbing the toy off of the coffee table. But she only wants to play for 1 minute then sit and stare at it. So you think, OK I guess she is bored. You put it down....
And she's back pawing at it.
The CatBot is the solution.
Step 2: Parts
For this I used the following:
Arduino Uno
Hillman Hobby Parts (found @ Lowes in the screws/nuts/bolts area)
2 Servos
Zip Ties
$3 Laser cat toy.
Step 3: Disassemble the Laser
The laser pops open with a screw driver. You can see it used 2x1.5v batteries. But it actually runs better at 4.5v.
Step 4: Cut the Laser
The laser had to be cut up to fit on the servo arm. I drilled a hole in the center so I could mount it to the servo arm as well.
Step 5: Build the Servo Tilt/Pan
I used a hodgepodge of these cool mechano/erector set pieces from Hillman. They can be found in the screw/small parts drawers at Lowes.
Step 6: Wire Up the Arduino
For the Arduino wiring, attach pins 8 & 9 to the servos.
Attach the laser to 5v, but 470 ohm resistor inline before the laser.
Step 7: Load the Code
Use the code in the attached file to program the Arduino.
Attachments
Step 8: Sit Back and Enjoy
Now that it is assembled and done watch it go...
Finalist in the
Arduino Challenge