Design Technology - Automaton (Upper Key Stage 2)

In this project, children apply their knowledge of mechanisms and in particular cam mechanisms, to design and make an automaton toy. They learn about the key features of an automaton and will use this knowledge when designing and making their own product. They learn how cams can change movement in a mechanical system. When creating their toy, they design the automaton character and decide the movement it will make, selecting the appropriate cam mechanism to produce this movement. They make a wooden box structure for their automaton before adding the cam mechanism and the character. Children decorate the automaton to create a scene for the automaton character. They evaluate their finished product against the design brief and design specifications. Finally, they consider improvements they would make to their product and design a Mark II version of their automaton toy.