Many were in disbelief, thinking that there was another source located near to the automata that was producing the sound. Men, women and children were in astonishment as they watched this tin man play his tunes to the audience whilst stood on a pedestal. Spectators gathered in number as news spread of this incredible machine. He created a figure of a man standing 5 feet 10 inches tall, which to the human eye appeared to naturally play an array of tunes on a flute. Perhaps some of the greatest automata were created during the 18th century, by Jacques De Vaucanson, who became a master of his craft. Though there are reports of mechanical objects being powered by water and steam at that time. It is thought that these contraptions were controlled and powered by hand, using levers to simulate movements. The Greeks were incredibly advanced for their time and used their engineering skills to create moving statues that were used in large ceremonies. The ancient Greeks were marvels in the construction of automata and they were obsessed by the idea of creating mechanical living beings. However there are references in Greek mythology dating back to the 15th century BC and telling of Amenhotep, son of Hapu, who was said to have built a statue near to Thebes in Egypt of Memnon, King of Ethiopia, that when struck by rays of light from the morning or setting sun produced harmonious sounds, such that the people believed a higher power to be the reason behind the singing statue of the king. There is no proof as to when the first automata were made. But this does not stop you from having a go at creating one yourself! Use this guide to help you understand what automata is and you may be well on your way to creating one of your own! A history of automata Automata is now a modern art form and only those with a special skill, passion and talent can create some of those more intricate versions of the automata. This can keep your attention for a few minutes or depending on the intricacy of the design it can keep you hooked for hours. Simple automata need a person to turn a lever so that the animated characters on display can move in a simple replaying motion. An automaton is a self operating machine. Also the history and influences it has on our world today. This guide will take you through the ins and outs of automata creation. One of the worlds most treasured and popular ideas.

Automata design ideas