![Hero image for Ed](/img/project/solidworks/solidworks_hero-22DE43D6.jpg)
Ed
Challenge
This is a skill based project. Using Solidworks, replicate all the internal mechanical components of an existing product. Then, redesign the product with some change in function.
Solution
New take on Japanese tea-serving Karakuri with dark steam-punk aesthetics inspired from bird’s skeleton.
Design Criteria
EXPOSURE
Showcase the internal mechanism instead of hiding with clothes.
AESTHETICS
Design the balance of organic - mechanical aesthetics.
MECHANISM
Addition of bird like motion to the mechanism.
MODELING
Challenge Solidworks with organic form giving using surface modeling.
What is a Karakuri-Doll?
![](/img/project/solidworks/Ed_What-4116BBB8.jpg)
Karakuri is a Japanese traditional automaton that was invented and enjoyed among people during Edo period (17th century).
Traditional Karakuri-dolls were made with all wood, and whale baleen was used as spring. Tea serving doll is one of the most famous.
In 2008, Gakken made a replica kit. It still has the same mechanism as original, but made of plastic.
I used this kit to learn the mechanism, and redesign the Karakuri-doll.
Understanding How it Works
Soon, it was clear that there was something special about being able to see the mechanism.
Also, the idea of making it to a penguin rather than human was developed in early stage.
![](/img/project/solidworks/Ed_HowItWorks-8B90F8D5.jpg)
Modeling Every Single Part
Using calipers, all parts were measured and modeled.
![](/img/project/solidworks/Ed_Modeling-0AFDBF65.jpg)
![](/img/project/solidworks/Ed_Modeling2-0B29ACAD.jpg)
Assembly of all parts
Solid Modeling
Reusing some components from the kit, final piece was modeled. Organic form giving was realized using surface lofting.
![](/img/project/solidworks/Ed_SolidModeling-525C3014.jpg)
3D Printing Custom Parts
Parts were printed using uPrint FDM printing, and Objet printing.
![](/img/project/solidworks/Ed_3DPrinting-83413725.jpg)
Testing the printed parts. Tolerance was a huge issue to deal with.
Priming, sanding, and painting some parts. Others were kept raw.
Assembly. Feet and tail were made by laser cutting leather.
Final Working Prototype
![](/img/project/solidworks/Ed_Final1-28020CFD.jpg)
![](/img/project/solidworks/Ed_Final2-62602F25.jpg)
![](/img/project/solidworks/Ed_Final3-EC3BE2F0.jpg)
![](/img/project/solidworks/Ed_Final4-26B29DC6.jpg)
In Scenery Rendering
![](/img/project/solidworks/Ed_Rendering-08710CEC.jpg)
Special Thanks
Very Special Thanks to Pascual W. for Advice, and Support.