Paper Animation Using a DC Motor

I got the idea for this project when looking through old art flipbooks, that make it seem like drawings are moving when you flip quickly through the pages. I wanted to find a way to make this automated, and I ended up on this project, that 'animates' a drawing of a stick figure man running.

This circuit uses a DC motor to make multiple images spin, giving the illusion that the drawing is moving. Based on the voltage you supply, you can control the speed of the motor and figure.

Also, you can experiment with different drawings, as long as it still can move in a smooth loop.

Circuit:

1. 1x DC motor
2. 1x 1.5v AA battery + battery holder
3. 1x push-button switch
4. Insulation tape

Decoration:

1. Paper + Markers (for drawing)
2. Cardboard
3. Box cutout (template download below)
4. Scissors
5. Tape
6. Hot glue gun (+ glue)

On a piece of paper, draw four rectangles. Draw a person in various stages of running, making sure that the figure remains in the center of each.

Cut out the frames of paper and fold them in half. Tape them in an 'X' shape around your motor in order, adding hot glue at the base to secure it.

Using the template, trace and cut out the box on a piece of cardboard. Optionally, glue colored paper to the outside.

Cut out the holes for the motor and switch, and insert the components. Tape the battery in the middle of the box, and connect the black (negative) wire to one end of the motor. Connect the other (positive) end of the battery to red (positive) end of the switch, twisting the wires around each other to secure the connection. Then, finish the circuit by connecting the negative wire of the switch to the other end of the motor. Secure all connections with insulation tape.

Fold the box, taping the sides to secure it. Optionally, add additional decoration and paper on top. Try out your animated drawings by pressing the button!