Laser Automation for Cats: A Fun and Interactive DIY Project

Published on January 15, 2025

As a passionate DIY enthusiast, Jeffrey Dale Hawse loves combining technology and creativity to solve everyday problems. This project takes that passion to the next level with a laser toy designed specifically for cats. This guide will show you how to create a laser automation toy that keeps your furry friends entertained while showcasing your skills in electronics and 3D printing.

Why Automate a Laser Toy?

Cats love chasing lasers, but manually operating a laser pointer can get tiring quickly. Automating the laser toy makes it more engaging for your pets while giving you the satisfaction of creating something functional and fun. This project demonstrates how you can use simple components like Arduino boards, servo motors, and 3D-printed parts to create a professional-grade toy.

Materials and Tools

Before getting started, make sure you have the following materials and tools:

Arduino Uno: The microcontroller that powers the laser and motors.
Laser Module: Provides the laser beam for the toy.
Two Servo Motors: Control the laser’s movement in horizontal and vertical directions.
3D-Printed Enclosure: Designed to house the components securely and safely.
Wires and Connectors: For connecting the components.
Soldering Kit: To ensure secure connections.
Computer with Arduino IDE: To program the Arduino board.

Step 1: Designing the Enclosure

The first step is to create a 3D-printed enclosure for your components. Using CAD software like SolidWorks or Fusion 360, design a compact case that fits the Arduino board, laser module, and servo motors. Ensure the design includes openings for the laser and servo motor arms.

Pro Tip: Add screw holes to securely attach the enclosure to a base, preventing it from tipping over during operation.

Step 2: 3D Printing the Enclosure

Once the design is complete, use a 3D printer to print the enclosure. PLA filament works well for this application due to its strength and ease of use. Ensure the print quality is high to avoid any misalignments when assembling the components.

Step 3: Assembling the Electronics

Now that the enclosure is ready, it’s time to assemble the electronics:

Mount the laser module and servos inside the enclosure.
Connect the servo motors to the Arduino using jumper wires. Use pins 9 and 10 for the servo control signals.
Connect the laser module to the Arduino, ensuring it gets the correct voltage.
Solder connections where necessary to ensure stability and reliability.

Safety Note: Use caution when handling the laser module to prevent exposure to the laser beam, which can be harmful to the eyes.

Step 4: Programming the Arduino

The next step is to upload a control program to the Arduino. Below is an example of the code:

#include 

Servo servoX; 
Servo servoY;

void setup() {
    servoX.attach(9);
    servoY.attach(10);
}

void loop() {
    for (int pos = 0; pos <= 180; pos += 5) {
        servoX.write(pos);
        servoY.write(180 - pos);
        delay(50);
    }
    for (int pos = 180; pos >= 0; pos -= 5) {
        servoX.write(pos);
        servoY.write(180 - pos);
        delay(50);
    }
}

Upload this code to your Arduino using the Arduino IDE. This program will move the servos in random patterns, making the laser dance around to keep your cats entertained.

Step 5: Testing and Final Assembly

After uploading the code, test the system to ensure everything works as expected. Adjust the servo speed and angles if necessary. Once satisfied with the performance, assemble the enclosure completely and secure it in place.

Project Insights and Future Improvements

This project demonstrates the power of combining electronics, programming, and 3D printing. For future improvements, you can add a Bluetooth module to control the toy from your smartphone or integrate a motion sensor to activate the laser only when your cats are nearby.

With projects like these, Jeffrey Dale Hawse continues to explore how technology can enhance everyday life in fun and meaningful ways.