Cowboy Automaton
The goal of this project was to design and 3D print a mechanical automaton composed of at least 6 parts. I wanted to infuse my automaton with whimsy, so I set out to create a three-dimensional version of the popular “cowboy emoji” with a hat that would rock back and forth in the way that the quintessential heroes of western films tip their hats.
I looked at the popular emoji design along with styles of western hats to develop sketches of hat designs that conveyed the spirit of the classic headpiece without losing the important element of stylization. I played with facial proportion to develop the appealing emoji features we’re familiar with. I sketched different types of connection points and movement mechanisms to accomplish the rocking motion I was aiming for.
In total, the final design is composed of 8 pieces. The 3D model, made in Fusion 360, is shown both assembled and disassembled. The automaton was printed on a Prusa Mk3 printer using PLA filament and refined by hand using files and sandpaper. The head was joined to the base by a wire run through the matching holes on their corresponding planes and knotted on each end.
Videos of Automaton
