The Wonders of Simple Machines
Mimicking Life

Before the invention of the electric motors, software, and computers that power today's toys and robots, there was the age of clockwork mechanics where motion was driven by cranks and gears, coding was done with cams and followers, and simple machines created surprisingly complex engines mirroring the processes of life. This program investigates the basic mechanisms of vintage automata, explores their progression from giant machinations in medieval towers to miniature curiosities in royal parlors, and demonstrates their inspiration for the industrial revolution and modern computing and robotics.

There will be time near the end for guided, hands-on exploration of my automata collection (see below) highlighting their application of Cams & Followers.

Even better, participants in the full-length program will have a chance in to build their own simple automaton from recycling brought from home.

PRESENTATION Materials & Webcast

Intrigued by the concept of medieval and modern machines that mirror life?

• Enjoy the Automata: Simple Machines Mimicking Life Presentation

• Watch the Automata Program Webcast (pair it with the free resources below - TBD)

• Download the Program Description/Common Core Map

See what our Partners have to say about this program and others in our Testimonials.

Delivery Requirements, Logistics & Fees

| Age Range: 7/8-Adult/Senior |
|  Participants: 4-30  |
|  Requirements: Projector, Screen, and Speakers |
| Setup/Breakdown: 1.5 hours each |
|  Contact for details |

➤ IN-PERSON DELIVERY OPTIONS

1.0 hour Option: Presentation Only
\\\ $269+travel \\\

1.5 hour Option: Presentation + Guided Hands-on Display with Select Automata
\\\ $339+travel \\\

Note: 1.5 hour program requires 3 six-foot tables for display.

2.0 hour Option: Presentation + Hands-on Interactive Use of All Automata
\\\ $369+travel \\\

Note: 2.0 hour program requires 5 six-foot tables for display.

Makerspace 3.75 hour Option: Presentation + Guided Hands-on Display of Select Automata + Automaton build (materials below)
\\\ $569+travel (I provide all materials and tools and do preparation work) \\\

Note: Makerspace program requires a large room with a six-foot work table per each group of 4 students, 6 additional six-foot tables for display and materials, and multiple hookups for electricity. Elementary-age students require volunteers to help with glue guns and sharp cutting tools.

➤ LIVESTREAM DELIVERY OptionS

Livestream via your Zoom, Google Meet, Google Classroom, WebEx, or other system

1.0 hour Option: Presentation Only
\\\ $209 \\\

Makerspace 3.5 hour Option: Presentation + Automaton build (materials below)
\\\ $279 \\\

Automata COLLECTION for Hands-On Exploration

See my hands-on collection of automata implementing a variety of mechanical principles in mirroring lifelike motion. Click on any photo to learn more about a automaton. Use the arrows at the left and right to move to different photos or simply allow the photos to scroll automatically.

TOOLS, Supplies, and Materials Required

TOOLS & Supplies per Attendee

-Most are brought by Presenter for in-person programs, except as denotated by an asterisk (*).

• Hot glue gun, glue sticks

• Scissors

• Flush cutters

• Ruler

• Quick-dry sticky tack glue (Aleene’s)

• Blue or white masking tape

• Markers, crayons, pencils*

• Small amount of recycling from home*

  • 1 small flat pack cardboard box (cereal, cracker boxes, etc.)

  • 1 small corrugated cardboard box (shipping box)

  • 1 or 2 small plastic containers (yogurt cups) are preferred

Materials per attendee

-All are brought by Presenter for in-person programs.

• 1 corrugated cardboard box, top-loading, precut 9”x 6”x 4”

• Assorted pre-cut cardboard base assembly pieces

• 2+ 12” bamboo skewers

• 1+ paper drinking straws

• 4+ pipe cleaners

• 12” of string

Printouts per Attendee

-All are brought by Presenter for in-person programs, except as denotated by an asterisk (*). Discounts available for locations that provide their own printing for attendees. Print as double-sided.

• Cardboard Automata Building Guide

Funding Options

Look into the Funding Options to help bring STEMpunk programming to your school or organization.