Bringing Remy From "Ratatouille" to Life: A DIY Halloween Costume You Can Make

Halloween is just around the corner, and if you're looking for a last-minute costume idea that will truly impress your friends, look no further than this incredible Remy costume from the animated film "Ratatouille." Created by Christina Ernst, a talented engineer, maker, and developer known as shebuildsrobots on Instagram, this robotic rat is designed to be worn on your head, appearing to control your every movement with its tiny, twitching arms.

The secret behind Remy's spooky magic? A clever combination of 3D printing, electronics, and code. Let's break down the key components and how you can recreate this amazing project yourself.

Remy: A 3D-Printed Star

The foundation of this costume is a 3D-printed Remy figure. Ernst meticulously designed the model to be lightweight and hollow, ensuring it's comfortable to wear. The figure is designed to sit securely atop your head, thanks to a hidden headband. What truly sets this creation apart are the arms, which are expertly crafted to allow your hair to pass through, creating a realistic, and slightly creepy, illusion of control.

The Power of Servo Movement

Remy's arms aren't just static props – they move, twitch, and pull at your hair, enhancing the illusion of a tiny chef in command. This animation is made possible by two sub-micro servos, carefully selected for their compact size and weight. These servos are cleverly attached to the arms using floral wire and hot glue, enabling a range of motion that adds a sense of life to Remy's movements.

Coding for Control

The heart of Remy's personality lies in its code. While Ernst opted for an Adafruit Metro Mini and an accelerometer for input, the project could easily be adapted using a Raspberry Pi Pico with a slight code tweak. The accelerometer, an MPU6050 model, communicates with the control board via I2C, enabling gesture-based control for Remy's right arm. With a bit of creativity and clever coding, you could even implement gesture control for both arms, adding a new layer of interactive fun.

Open Source Magic

What truly makes this project stand out is its accessibility. Ernst generously shared all the necessary files and instructions online, making it possible for anyone to bring Remy to life. The 3D-printed model files are available for download on GitHub, allowing you to print your own figure using any budget-friendly 3D printer.

A Costume with a Future

This project is a testament to the potential of 3D printing, electronics, and open-source coding to create truly engaging and innovative experiences. It's not just a costume; it's a gateway into the exciting world of robotics and maker culture. Whether you're a seasoned engineer or just starting out, this Remy costume is a great way to dive in and explore the creative possibilities.

More Than Just a Halloween Costume

The appeal of Remy's costume extends beyond the spooky season. Its clever design and interactive elements make it a perfect project for enthusiasts of all ages. It's a great way to learn about 3D printing, coding, and electronics while having fun and building something truly unique. So, this Halloween, don't just wear a costume – wear your creativity and bring Remy to life!

Github repository: https://github.com/shebuildsrobots/remy_model