Cams are the mechanisms that add life to our automata. As many people have noted, they can be viewed as a type of ‘memory’ that allows the mechanism to perform…
In previous installments of this column, we looked at some methods for cutting brass and techniques for bending brass for your automaton projects. At some point, you will want to…
In the last instalment of this column, we looked at some of the many ways you can cut brass for your automaton project. Once cut, there is a good chance…
Brass is a metal that looks good with wood, is easy to work, and can be soldered. You can use it for specific parts or create entire automaton with it!…
10 Handy Tricks for Woodworkers & Automaton-makers We’ve focused on techniques in this column up to this point. Now it’s time for some small tips that can make a big…
How to Make a Ratchet Mechanism A ratchet can be a very useful mechanism within an automaton. It can be used to keep the handle from being turned the wrong…
Making Urethane Belts for Automaton Projects In the last article, we looked at how to make pulleys for automaton projects. We also made belts from O-ring gasket material. Custom-sized belts…
Making Pulleys and Belts for Automata Pulleys and belts are incredibly useful to the automaton maker. They can transfer power from one axle to another and change the speed, direction…
Creating Wooden Joints for Automata Figures Often an automaton figure without jointed arms and legs will work just fine. But, if you want to create a character pedaling a bicycle,…
