A Knowledge organiser that captures the essential knowledge and skills learnt throughout the unit Archived – Design and technology, Year 6, Mechanical systems: Automata toys.
This resource introduces pupils to the mechanical systems behind Automata toys, sometimes referred to as mechanical or kinetic art. It explains how these toys use hand-powered mechanisms to create movement through key components such as cams, followers, axles, frames, and characters. The organiser defines important tools and materials like dowels, clamps, and drill bits, and includes a visual guide to different cam shapes—round, snail, and ellipse—demonstrating how they produce varied motion effects. Pupils are also introduced to terminology such as “exploded diagram,” “cutting list,” and “linkage,” supporting the development of practical skills and design vocabulary needed to create functioning mechanical toys.
