Because there is very little you can’t build with LEGO, Youtuber Brick Technology constructed an oversized LEGO train to carry his “tired of walking” cats Cookie and Muffin around the house. Will his next cat be named Cupcake or Scone? I should certainly hope so!
Lego isn’t designed for building a large train that can carry cats because it lacks large wheels and rails for smooth movement. To solve this, 3D printing was used to create these parts. The rail switches use magnets or rubber for automatic changing. The bogies [train underbodies] have a suspension system to handle uneven tracks and curve tilts, with each wheel powered by a strong, compact Lego L motor. The axles are made of aluminum to avoid bending under the weight.
The bogies also have an automatic coupling system that can be opened using air pressure. The train is powered by 3 LEGO Powered Up hubs, allowing for further expansion and automation of the locomotive system. It was programmed entirely using the LEGO Powered Up app, which allows control of the color of the train’s lights and direction and control over pneumatic valves through servos.
Brick Technology also noted that he slowly introduced Cookie and Muffin to the train to ensure they wouldn’t be scared of it. That was smart thinking. You can’t just put a conductor’s hat on a cat and tell them, “All Board!” At least not my cat. Because there will be blood, and it will be mine.
[via LaughingSquid]
With over 17 years of writing experience, Jonathan has had a passion for all things tech-related, ever since watching Inspector Gadget as a child. He's disassembled countless appliances and managed to put a few back together, and one still works. When not writing, he can often be found playing video games or accidentally hurting himself in the garage.