Assignment: Simple Mechanics: Cuckoo Clock

Collaborators:

Assignment: Simple Mechanics: Cuckoo Clock
Collaborators: npdoty, arzabe

Commuting in the city can be a hassle! Which train? when do I leave? How do I exit through the train doors? The Cuckoo Commuter clock has all the answers to those questions. Cuckoo clocks are far more complicated than your traditional clock. Not only do they deal with making sure their hands point to the proper digits, cuckoo clocks also have to open doors and shove little birdies into the harsh cold world when important event occur, such as the start of an hour. Tough to do when you only have two hands. This ain't your standard bird either. This little birdie comes ready with hat, suitcase, rolled up newspaper, and executive tie. When the clock chimes, he's ready for action pushing his way through the crowds on the BART train, poised to take on corporate America!*

The Cuckoo clock consists of a primary driving rod that extends the bird through the doors. A pair of gears linked to racks automatically open the BART train doors as he approaches. They also close the door after he boards. The primary construction of the machinery is Lego™ Technic™ pieces. The doors run on rails, helping them stay upright. The unusual construction (due to budget cuts and limited pieces) results in a rather high amount of friction among the parts. 

We attempted to motorize the process of boarding and departing the train, but ran into limitations when the lego pieces were unable to stay together. This resulted in the whole BART train tearing itself to pieces, and many angry complaints from passengers late to work.

Nick and Sean Crossed mental arcs (reference to Ghost Busters Movie) to create this ingenious way to open the door, while Miguel provided creative inspiration for alternative ways to open the door, along with the BART train theme and sharply dressed bird.

*Bird may not convince your boss to give you a raise.