LaserChase SnackBot X – Arduino-Powered Thrill Toy for Adventure-Hungry Cats

Meet the LaserChase SnackBot X, the ultimate fusion of feline fun and maker magic. This 3D printed, Arduino Uno-powered robotic toy isn't just a cat toy—it's a full-blown feline thrill ride.

Armed with a precision-controlled laser turret, the SnackBot X darts a red beam across the floor in unpredictable patterns, challenging even the quickest paws. But the real twist? A treat cannon that launches your cat’s favorite snacks mid-chase, rewarding their hunting prowess with edible victory.

Powered by the reliable Arduino Uno, this toy is fully programmable—tweak speed, laser patterns, and treat timing to match your cat’s personality. Want motion detection? Add a PIR sensor. Want chaos mode? Program a snack barrage when your cat scores a "hit."

Crafted with a sleek, 3D printed shell and whisper-quiet motors, the SnackBot X brings high-stakes action to your living room—keeping your cat entertained, exercised, and on high alert for the next snack attack.

Components:

• Arduino Uno
• DC motor 5V F130
• Stepper Motor 28BYJ-48
• 2x Servo Motor SG-90
• Laser (took one out from laser pointer)
• 12V power charger
• 4x Brass insert nut M1.4x3x2.3
• 4x Screw 1.4x6

Software:

• Fusion 360
• Arduino IDE

Wiring diagram:

Arduino IDE code:

#include <Servo.h>

#include <Stepper.h>

int ServoVPin = 10;

int ServoHPin = 9;

int ServoVPos;

int ServoHPos;

Servo ServoV;

Servo ServoH;

int stepsPerRotation = 512;

Stepper myStepper(stepsPerRotation, 7, 5, 6, 4);

int Laser = 8;

int LaserTime;

int Gun = 11;

int pauza = 2000;

int pauza1 = 5000;

int pauza2 = 3000;

void setup() {

  ServoV.attach (ServoVPin);

  ServoH.attach (ServoHPin);

  myStepper.setSpeed(50);

  pinMode (Laser, OUTPUT);

  pinMode (Gun, OUTPUT);

  Serial.begin (9600);

}

void loop() {

  while (LaserTime < 5) {

    LaserTime++;

    digitalWrite (Laser, HIGH);

    ServoVPos = random (0,90);

    ServoHPos = random (0,90);

    ServoV.write (ServoVPos);

    ServoH.write (ServoHPos);

    delay (pauza);

    Serial.println (LaserTime);

  }

  digitalWrite (Laser, LOW);

  myStepper.step(stepsPerRotation);

  delay (pauza2);

  digitalWrite (Gun, HIGH);

  delay (pauza2);

  digitalWrite (Gun, LOW);

  delay (pauza1);

  LaserTime = 0;

}

I tried to keep the code as simple as I could so everyone can make adjustments on their own. Setup the servos to 0 before assembly, so you will have an idea where the laser will point.

Printing Instructions:

There are 9 different files to print. You can combine them as you like or print them 1 by 1. Four of the files (Base, Cover, Servo Holder and Laser Holder) need supports, the rest can be printed without support.

I used PLA for my prints and did it with 15-25% infill. Though for the next one I will go somewhere between 50 and 75%.

Assembly Instructions:

1. Solder the parts for the DC motor and place the Watermill on the DC motor
2. Insert the brass nuts in the Servo Holder print and assemble the outside servo on the Servo holder
3. Place the other servo in the Servo Holder part
4. Mount the Laser Holder onto the 2nd servo
5. Insert the Laser into the Laser Holder
6. Mount the Stepper and the Watermill parts on the Base part
7. Insert the DC motor with the blades into the Base
8. Place the Arduino on the designated position
9. Mount the Servos and Laser to the Cover.
10. Screw the Feeder on the Cover
11.  Wire everything as per the diagram
12.  Close the body with the Cover and use the 4 screws from the bottom side

Keep in mind to use additional power charger, cause the DC motor can use a lot of it. I tried to make the project with the most basic electronics, but will level it up in future with better components and better design. My cat loves it so I have to do it.