Poisoned Milk - a Classic Paul Spooner Automaton

Here's a great little video of an classic Paul Spooner piece called Poisoned Milk.

The means of animating the tongue is very clever and requires some lateral thinking. See if you can figure it out.

Visit Cabaret Mechanical Theatre and Fourteen Balls Toy Co. to see more Paul Spooner automata.

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Mozart from Scrap-Made Mechanical Glockenspiel

Perhaps you recall the programmable Gloggomobil music machine I wrote about. Here is a related and remarkable DIY project...a weight-driven automatic glockenspiel made from assorted recovered materials. Well done!

From the YouTube Description:
"Andante Grazioso" (Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart / KV331) played by a "Mechanical Music Box in a Drawer" made from recycling materials found in electronic-waste, bulky trash and at home.

To learn more about mechanical music, check out this post about The Encyclopedia of Automatic Musical Instruments.

[Thanks bhaaluu!]

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Video of the Mysterious Chess-playing Automaton

I wrote recently about the Clockwork Game, the amazing graphic novel about The Turk.

Here is video footage of the mysterious chess-playing automaton created in 1770 by Hungarian nobleman Wolfgang von Kempelen.

For more details about The Turk you might check out:

• The Wikipedia entry for The Turk
• The Turk: The Life and Times of the Famous Eighteenth-Century Chess-Playing Machine
• Edison's Eve: A Magical History of the Quest for Mechanical Life
• Chess Man VS Machine
• The Illustrated History of Magic

Bibliography from Clockwork Game web site.

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Video of Swimmer Automaton by 14 Balls Toy Co.

Here's a video of a classic from 14 Balls Toy Company. The piece was designed by Paul Spooner and made by Matt Smith. How to Swim cleverly animates a swimmer whose legs kick, arms rotate, and head turns. Notice that everything on the swimmer moves at the right pace. Brilliant.

Here's the link to the Cabaret Mechanical Theatre page for How to Swim

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Karakuri Acrobat Automaton Flipping Down Stairs

I posted in the past about Japanese Karakuri Ningyo. In particular, I mentioned the fantastic drawing karakuri. Gakken is a company that sells a few kit including a tea serving karakuri and archer karakuri that actually shoots miniature arrows.

Here is a tumbler or acrobat. I have also seen a similar design from a company in Germany, though I don't know who came up with the idea or if this is a case of independent invention. It's that last flip that really surprises me.

Here's one karakuri book and here is another karakuri book (both in Japanese).

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Recriprocating Motion from Rotary Motion Device

This is a somewhat unexpected way to get reciprocating (back-and-forth) motion from rotary motion (circular). What's so interesting about this design in how compact it is and that it requires no return springs or counter-weights (positive drive).

Check out this post for 5 great books mechanical reference books.

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Vichy Automaton of a Drunkard on Park Bench

Here is a short video of an automaton by Vichy depicting a drunken man on a park bench. I find the figure's movements very convincing: the sloppy swaying and shifting, the heavy eyelids, the silently muttering to himself.

Vichy was known for the subtlety of motion their automata possessed. Vichy showed several automata at Paris Universal Exposition of 1878. One observer noted that, "...Vichy's automata are distinguished by the flexibility and precision of their gestures...". One hundred and thirty years later, I can't argue.

Vichy is one of one of several French automata makers covered in the large format hardcover Automata: The Golden Age 1848-1914

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Clockwork Mechanical Art by Gina Kamentsky

You have got to love the playful mechanical sculptures by Gina Kamenstsky. This video should give you a sample of what I mean.

A reminder: her solo exhibition, Gina Kamentsky: Mechanical Confections, will be on exhibition in Fuller Craft Museum through November 9, 2008.

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Automaton Recreation of Robert-Houdin's Acrobat

Here is a very ambitious recreation of Robert-Houdin's famous acrobat automaton named Antonio Diavolo. This version was created by automata expert Kevin Wright as a tribute to Robert-Houdin's original Acrobat.

Wright's automaton, entitled Dante the Daring, performs the same routine as Robert-Houdin's automaton from 1849. The original was approximately 34 inches tall, while this one is 40 inches. He is fully functional with the ability to nod, turn his head left to right, and perform somersaults and handstands.

Robert-Houdin was trained as a watchmaker and is widely regarded as the father of modern stage magic. To recreate one of his automata is an astonishing feat of mechanical detective work and craftsmanship.

Visit Kevin Wright's site called The Clockwork Universe to see this and other amazing projects.

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Automaton Magic - Lady Changes Dress Instantly

The good folks over at Cabaret Mechanical Theatre were kind enough to alert me to the arrival Pierre Mayer's latest magic-themed automaton: Valerie - The Quick Change Artist.

Here's the shop link to the Valerie Automaton at the Cabaret Mechanical Theatre online shop.

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Automaton by Vichy - Clockwork Mechanism Inside

This is the repaired inner mechanism of a Vichy automaton made in France in 1875. The complete automaton depicts a lady who breathes, closes her eyes, turns her head, fans herself, and lifts her glasses to her eyes.

You can learn more about Vichy and the other famous French automaton makers from the late 19th century and early 20th century from the Automata: The Golden Age 1848-1914.

Thanks to the experts at AutomatomaniA for this wonderful video. AutomatomaniA is the UK's only specialist automata restoration company.

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Jaquet-Droz Writing Automaton: First Computer?

Here is nice video of the internal mechanism of Pierre Jaquet-Droz's writing automaton.

The text to be written by the automaton could be programmed. By some people's definition, The Writer is an early -- perhaps the first -- version of the computer, having an input method, programmable instructions, and an output display.

Computer or no, this is a work of unparalleled craftsmanship. That it still works today, hundreds of years later is a testament to its excellent design and construction.

This and two other Jacquet-Droz automata are on display at the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire of Neuchâtel, in Switzerland.

This video is from TIL Productions, by Director Philippe Sayous of www.automates-anciens.com

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Graceful Papercraft Kinetic Horse Sculpture

This extraordinary piece conveys three important concepts in automaton making.

First, just look at what can be done with paper as the primary material. This could either be a prototype for something later made in metal or wood, or this could be the finished product. Worried about longevity? I have seen a paper/cardboard automaton from the 18th Century that works just fine today.

Second, behold the power of well-considered linkages. The entire complex sequence of motions is driven from a single offset crank in the center of the horse. Very subtle movements, such as the head, are secondary motions. The interdependence of large and small motions gives the horse a very lifelike quality.

Third, while automata may be made of tangibles such as wood, paper, and metal, there is good reason to consider Computer Assisted Design (CAD) when creating them.

Check out some books on Mechanical Linkages, Paper Engineering, and Learning CAD.

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Automaton by Pablo Lavezzari: Facing a Fake Foe

The latest automaton from Pablo Lavezzari is fantastic. Simply amazing.

The scene depicts an armored knight fighting a mechanical dragon which is controlled by a goblin behind the scenes. Not only is the piece meticulously detailed, but it also has an integrated smoke effect...that's not just for the video clip! The dragon also roars.

Just when you think this automaton could not possibly get any better, there is more. A monster hidden in a tree is exposed by turning a rock that makes up part of the scenery. Finally, the small crossbow prop is more than a prop: it is a functioning miniature crossbow.

I am impressed on every level. Facing a Fake Foe has humor, ingenuity, novel features, hidden tricks, and details that exceed expectations.

Visit the KINETICDREAMS blog to read more about the piece.

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Automaton Video: Artist Aquio Nishida's Automata

Here is a great collection of video clips of automata created by Aquio Nishida.

I included his book, Automata: Movable Illustration, in my list of essential automata books for The Athanasius Kircher Society.

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Biomimetic Insect Robot with Uncanny Movements

Biomimicry ("bios" - meaning life and "mimesis" - meaning to imitate) may be relatively new to robotics, but has a long tradition in automata. Still, I cannot recall seeing an automaton succeed in imitating biological motion to this degree.

This six-legged robot is uncanny in its motions. I find it both beautiful and spooky (as when I am startled by the first-sight of an insect).

This project, by creator Kare Halvorsen, is called "Phoenix". He has achieved an amazingly lifelike motion using hobby servos and an off-the-shelf servo controller. Here is a video clip of the Phoenix in action:


Let's all hope Kare continues to use his technical prowess for good and not evil.

Visit the Trossen forum to learn more about the Phoenix robot. This gem comes to us by way of the MAKE blog.

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Classic Automata from Skinner Auction, July 2006

Take a look at this generous video clip of a variety of classic automata by many of the famous French automaton makers.

I especially like the Monkey Duet tableau and the fact you get to see the workings of the piece.

You can learn more about many of the makers of these automata from Christian Bailly's book: Automata: The Golden Age.

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Jan Zalud Wood Acrobat Automaton Video

Enjoy this video of an acrobat by artist Jan Zalud - a contemporary wood carver specializing in wooden automata, puppets and other wooden crafts.

This video shows the crank, cam, and ratchet mechanism in fine detail.

He has a very distinctive style and wonderful imagination. He is very good at integrating the mechanisms with the rest of the piece.

Visit Jan Zalud's web site to see more of his beautiful work.

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Featured Automaton Artist: Paul Boyer Automata

Take a look at artist Paul Boyer's skill with animating horses in this great video clip.

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CAM-10 Micro Walking Robot

Take a look at this tiny bipedal robot. What's the big deal, you ask, we've had walking wind-up toys for ages.

Well, apparently this little robot walks with more natural walking gait than the old wind up toys. This robot shifts its weight from one leg to the other as it takes a stride. Here is a video clip of this little guy in action.



As you can see, the robot also swings its arms and moves its head back and forth as it walks. I'm thinking: very hackable! The Cam-10 stands 4 inches tall and uses 1 N size battery (included, thank goodness!). Your choice of "Stealth Black" or "Invisible Clear".

Check out the CAM-10 Micro Walking Robot

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Animated Diorama Automaton of a Shipwreck

Just when you think you've seen all of the great automata from Pablo, there is another! Check out this animated diorama of the inside of a shipwrecked boat.

His attention to detail and creativity are always impressive.

Visit Pablo Lavezzari's site to see this and other works.

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Automaton of Laughing Man with Lifelike Motion

Here's an automaton to help you get your week off to a good start. This laughing man automaton is part of the collection on display at the Musée de l'Automate in Souillac, France.

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Video of Robert-Houdin Automata in Action

In this clip you see some of Robert-Houdin's famous automata including: The Orange Tree, The Pastry Cook of the Palais-Royal, The Trapeze Vaulter (Antonio Diavolo).

You'll also see some of the non-automata stage illusions that he made famous including The Ethereal Suspension (levitation of a boy), a glimpse of one of his Mystery Clocks, and shots of the Robert-Houdin Musuem.

The complete DVD is available in French or English. Here is the link to ROBERT-HOUDIN, A MAGICIAN'S LIFE DVD.

Learn more about Robert-Houdin and his automata in the book: King of the Conjurers.

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Steampunk Flying Fish Submarine Automaton

Another great piece from the hands of Pablo Lavezzari - a talented automata-maker from Argentina. This one is entitled Utopia.

See a full assortment of beautiful photographs of this piece at on this page of his site.

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Vaucanson's Defecating Duck Automaton

One of the earliest well known automata was The Duck by Jacques de Vaucanson, first exhibited in 1739. Vaucanson (1709 - 1782) was a French engineer credited with creating fine automata that some regard as world's first robots. He is also credited with creating the first completely automated loom.

Here is a link to a video featuring a reproduction of Vaucanson's duck automaton on YouTube. If I am not mistaken, this reproduction was made by Frédéric Vidoni for the Museum of the Automata in Grenoble, in order to pay tribute to Vaucanson.

Here is a link to an earlier post with a photo of Vaucanson's duck, showing some of the workings of the original mechanism.

More on Vaucanson and his creations can be found in these books:
* Edison's Eve: A Magical History of the Quest for Mechanical Life
* Crescendo of the Virtuoso: Spectacle, Skill, and Self-Promotion in Paris during the Age of Revolution

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Whirligig of a Medical Student and Skull

Another video of a wind-powered automaton by doctor and automata-maker Ben Thal. Very charming!

From the YouTube Description:
A white coat medical student inserts a tongue depressor into the snapping jaws of a human skull.

For books on whirligig construction, check out The Automata / Automaton Store. Whirligig books page 1 and Whirligig books page 2

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Man Swatting Fly Automaton

The maker of this piece, Dave Johnson, says it is his first at automata. I've got to say...this is someone with some mechanical aptitude! Note the wooden worm gear and ratchet mechanisms: not the sort of thing one typically sees the first time around. I especially like the way the piece cycles and the great use of secondary motion created by free-swinging parts -- a great touch that adds a lot of life to the piece.

From the YouTube Description:
Since these crank-operated automata inherently cycle through their action, I liked the idea of a task that's never finished, like Sisyphus and his stone. But I didn't want it to be purely grim, so I chose Sisyphus as a young man, in a more pastoral and relaxing posture (perhaps after a picnic), trying to swat a pesky fly. And always missing.

The video of Little Man automaton is generous in showing the details of the mechanism. He also has a nice set of still photos (including sketches) of the piece on flickr.

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Robert-Houdin's Orange Tree Automata

The Orange Tree Illusion was invented by Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin, automata-maker, clock-maker, electricity experimenter, and father of modern magic. A fanciful version of this illusion was recently featured in the film The Illusionist. This, more faithful recreation, is performed by Paul Daniels on his BBC TV series. The piece was refurbished by John Gaughan -- a famed a manufacturer of magic acts and equipment for magicians.

I couldn't embed the video here, so you will have to visit the link to YouTube to watch it. Witness Robert-Houdin's Orange Tree Automata.

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Fantastic Wind-Powered Whrligigs Video

Automata maker Tom Haney sent the video you see above to me.

Tom writes:
I have something you might want to put up on your site. The man who inspired me to do mechanical pieces, Ben Thal, has posted a video on YouTube. I met him at a whirligig show in Oregon in 1994. He does great pieces with amazing and simple movements. He is a doctor and does whirligigs as a hobby. All his whirligigs are for indoors and are powered by a fan.

See it at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lnm_16KUF0M

The motions are pretty sophisticated for whirligigs...impressive!

Thanks Tom!

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Heron and Fish Automaton Video

Another video of some clever work by the artist I know only by their YouTube username: kitundu.

This piece features an interesting approach to creating a wave effect in the pond. There are also some nice detailed views showing some very practical information -- such as how to keep a cam follower on a cam.

[Thanks Falk!]

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Spiders in the Attic Wall-Mounted Automaton

Here is another clever work by artist Anthony Lent. I am growing more and more fond of this wall-mounted format. As you see in this piece, entitled Spider in the Attic, the format opens up a lot of interesting possibilities.

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Automaton Building Video: How to Make Automata

Here is an instructional video on how to make wood automata by one of the UK's top automata artists, Keith Newstead. It is a very helpful video. My only regret is that it is not longer!

From the site:
Making automata is hard. It requires a wide range of construction skills and an understanding of certain mechanical and engineering principles...The first half of the tape is divided into the following sections: Levers, Cranks, Linkages, Cams, Shafts & Bearings, Ratchets, Gearing and Drives...The second part concentrates on some of the ways the mechanisms can be put together to make automata.

Here is the link to the video on How to Make Automata
Note: Those in the USA will want the NTSC version.

Here is a book that is also very good: Automata and Mechanical Toys.

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