Book: Figures in the Fourth Dimension by Ellen Rixford

Jere Ryder, Conservator of the Guinness Collection (of automata and mechanical music) at the Morris Museum wrote to let us know of an important new book on automata. Here's what he wrote:

I think that many of your readers will be interested to learn that there is an exhaustive, 512 page hardcover publication just released: Figures in the Fourth Dimension authored by Ellen Rixford. Over the past 3-4 years the Morris Museum participated in the creation of this book, focusing mainly on the 19th century automata chapter. Throughout the book, the author explains in extraordinary detail how the internal mechanisms of mechanical puppets, marionettes and automata were and are today designed and created. Every cam, lever & linkage is revealed in detailed photographs, exploded view illustrations, and full mechanical descriptions. For any technician, restorer, conservator or contemporary automata or puppetry artist/builder, this reference piece will be required reading.

That's high praise from a very knowledgeable source folks!

This book is now available in the Morris Museum Shop and can no be ordered through our Museum Shop webpage (http://www.morrismuseum.org/museum-shop), or directly from the author’s website (http://www.figuresinthefourthdimension.com/html/Automata-clockwork.html).

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Musical Machines and Living Dolls: The Murtogh D. Guinness Collection of Mechanical Musical Instruments and Automata

Yesterday's post reminded me to remind you about this book I posted about back in 2011. The Morris Museum in Morristown, NJ is home to the Guinness Collection of 750 antique, mechanical musical instruments and automata. It is one of the biggest, best, and most well-managed collections I know of.

The museum has created an illustrated book featuring pieces from its permanent exhibition titled Musical Machines and Living Dolls: The Murtogh D. Guinness Collection of Mechanical Musical Instruments and Automata. Written by Ellen M. Snyder-Grenier (former Curator of the Guinness Collection), this 144-page hardcover features 138 photographs and over 20 illustrations on beautiful glossy paper.

Evenly divided between automata and mechanical musical instruments, the book is a wealth of information on the history of both. It is a beautiful and well-written book, which offers a rich view of an extremely important collection. I recommend it. It makes a great gift for those with a serious interest in the subject.

Here is where you can order Musical Machines and Living Dolls.

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Cabaret Mechanical Movement - The classic text on automaton-making in Kindle edition!

One of the all-time best books on the art and science of making contemporary automata, Cabaret Mechanical Movemen, is now available in a Kindle edition. This is great news, because the original paperback edition can be somewhat hard to get and used copies of the softcover book are quite expensive. Published by Cabaret Mechanical Theatre, a museum that pops-up all over the world to delight its visitors with some of the finest examples of the automata makers art, is largely responsible for the existence of the genre. As such, they are a name to be trusted.

From the book description:

Making automata is hard. Making other sorts of three dimensional objects can also be hard, but the extra dimension of movement seems to add a disproportionate amount of difficulty. For most people, especially those untrained in engineering skills, getting to the point where making mechanical devices is easy, can be a long and frustrating task. Then again, there are many people who have a sound understanding of engineering but can’t even draw a horse.

These things can be learnt. This book does not teach you how to draw a horse, but it does remove the mystery that surrounds the world of mechanisms and the business of making things move. Cabaret Mechanical Movement contains a lot of theory but it’s also packed with practical tips and ideas for making your own automata, moving toys or mechanical sculpture.

Chapter titles include:

• Who, What, Why?
• Some Principles
• Levers
• Shafts
• Cranks
• Cams
• Springs
• Linkages
• Ratchets
• Drives & Gearing
• Control
• The Checklist
• Bibliography
• Index

You won't find step-by-step plans to make an automaton, but you will learn a lot about the basic mechanisms that make most contemporary automata tick. You will also get valuable constructions tips for making moving toys and automata. The book includes over 200 black-and-white illustrations. I would say that alone, it may not be enough to get you started making autoamta, unless you have some previous woodworking experience. That said, it is an indispensable book on the subject and should be among the first those new to the field acquire.

Here is where you can get the Kindle edition of Cabaret Mechanical Movement: Understanding Movement and Making Automata

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Book: Making Whirligigs, Whimsies, & Folk Toys

If you haven't seen it yet, check out this book by Rodney Frost! This is the man who brought us Making Mad Toys & Mechanical Marvels in Wood as well as Whacky Toys, Whirligigs & Whatchamacallits, and Creative Kinetics: Making Mechanical Marvels in Wood.

As with all of Rodney Frost's books, this one is full of wonderful mechanical toy projects, solid advice on how to make them, step-by-step instructions, and large diagrams of the projects. The author -- known for his clever designs and charming folk aesthetics -- covers how to create whirligigs, traditional folk toys with interesting variations, and some unusual new kinetic creations. There are full-size patterns for 19 projects in total.

Rodney Frost's books are among the most useful for those interested in learning to build their own kinetic creations, whirligigs, and automata out of wood.

Here is where you can order Making Whirligigs, Whimsies, & Folk Toys

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4 great books for the mechanically-minded person

If you have found your way to this blog and have yet to find a gift for that mechanically-minded person in your life, here's a list of books that should solve all of your problems! Need more choices? Stay tuned for more in the coming days!

Five Hundred and Seven Mechanical Movements: Embracing All Those Which Are Most Important in Dynamics, Hydraulics, Hydrostatics, Pneumatics, Steam Engines

Coming in as the top selling book by the readers of The Automata blog is Five Hundred and Seven Mechanical Movements is a great resource for interesting mechanical solutions. It is an affordable book that can provide a lot of education and inspiration. The left hand page of each spread shows 6 to 9 mechanisms or "contrivances" as they were called, while the page on the right side gives a short description of each of the mechanisms and what it does. The mechanisms are presented in a concise, interesting manner. There is something compelling about the vintage line drawings and old-fashioned phrasing. I love this little book as will anyone who finds mechanisms fascinating.

Making Things Move: DIY Mechanisms for Inventors, Hobbyists, and Artists

Published in 2010, Making Things Move: DIY Mechanisms for Inventors, Hobbyists, and Artists is one of the most comprehensive, easy-to-understand, and fun books on the topic. Author Dustyn Roberts covers every aspect of making things move, from fabrication techniques, to motors, CAD, and Arduino micro-controllers. If your interest in kinetic sculpture includes more than wood and brass, this book is fantastic resource.

Number 8: Paper Automata: Four Working Models to Cut Out & Glue Together

There is no doubt that Rob Ives is a master of paper engineering. This glossy softcover book contains all of the printed color patterns needed to make four excellent paper automata: a pecking hen, a flying fish, three bounding sheep, and a bowing jester. If you or anyone in your life wants to try their hand at making an automaton -- and I mean right away -- paper is the way to go. You only need some white glue, scissors, a hobby knife, and this Paper Automata book. I've watched someone with no prior mechanical training complete one of these models in an afternoon. A gift of this book is like giving four kits. Priced at just over $10, it is a very good deal.

Creative Kinetics: Making Mechanical Marvels in Wood

In Creative Kinetics, author Rodney Frost provides a brilliant introduction to the making of kinetic art. The book does an especially good job of explaining the mechanisms that typically make up the core of a wood automaton: levers, cams, cranks, eccentrics, pulleys, and gears. The projects are fun and wildly diverse. You won't find complete plans in this book, but if you are interested in learning to make kinetic sculptures in wood, this book provides all of the fundamentals in a fun and easy-to-read way.

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Learn just enough to make just about anything (including a career)

I haven't read this new book, but I can tell you that it's on MY holiday wishlist. Why? First, it is from the creators of MAKE. I've subscribed to the magazine from day one, bought the books, and had the pleasure of writing a few articles for them. These folks get it. They know what it is to want to create, to build, to play, to make. Second, if the subtitle of the book lives up to its name (even in part), then I want in.

From the book description:

Are you possessed by the urge to invent, design, and make something that others enjoy, but don’t know how to plug into the Maker movement? In this book, you’ll follow author David Lang’s headfirst dive into the Maker world and how he grew to be a successful entrepreneur. You’ll discover how to navigate this new community, and find the best resources for learning the tools and skills you need to be a dynamic maker in your own right.

Beyond developing your skills, the book also sheds light on the maker-community in general and how to forge a career from what you will learn and who will meet. Intrigued? I know am.

Here is where you can order Zero to Maker: Learn (Just Enough) to Make (Just About) Anything.

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Book: Automatic Pleasures: - The History of the Coin Machine

I was just alerted to the fact that there is a new edition of this very interesting book on the history of coin-operated machines!

From the description:

The book established many new facts and destroyed many of the myths that had arisen in the gaming industry during the 20th century. Originally an ancient Greek invention the advent of the coin machine in the 19th century heralded a Victorian revolution which sought to establish a fully automated society. The visionaries of the past are the direct forbears of the all pervasive computer industries -- without the gaming and coin machine industries it is doubtful as to whether today's computer dominated age would have ever happened.

There are some really wonderful images and diagrams in this book. Be sure to use the "Look Inside" feature at Amazon to see what I mean!

Here is where you can buy Automatic Pleasures: - The History of the Coin Machine

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Web site dedicated to the book '507 Mechanical Movements' with animated mechanisms

So by now you must have realized how much I love the little book titled 507 Mechanical Movements: Mechanisms and Devices. Here is a review of the book I wrote years ago. I stand by it to this day. I will just go ahead and say it: buy one today!

Here's a web site dedicated entirely to this fine little book. What makes it truly interesting is that some of the diagrams are animated and there is the promise to animate more of them. This really brings the mechanisms to life and their usefulness apparent. The thumbnails in color are the ones that currently have animated versions. Can't wait to see the rest!

[ Thanks Aaron! ]

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The Automata Blog reaches 2000 posts (not counting this one)!

Happy 2,000th Post!

Yesterday's post was officially the 2,000th post ever published to The Automata Blog! That's over 6 years worth of (almost) daily posts about automata, books, videos, plans, toys, exhibits, tools, and artists. Here are some ways you can explore the posts on this blog:

Use the Archives

The archives are located midway down the page in the site sidebar on the right side of the page. This is a chronological list (newest to oldest) by month. Each link will open all the posts for the selected month. Be patient; the page is loading 20 to 30 posts at once. This is a great way to stumble upon interesting random things.

Use the Labels

One or more labels are associated with each post. These are the links found just below the gray horizontal line at the very bottom of each post. Usually they are just a word or two. They are assigned when the post is written. They are a good way to search for items that have some quality in common. It's a loose form of cross-referencing. Labels are really good for finding all posts related to a specific person.

Use the Search

The search box is located in the upper section of the site sidebar on the right. The search is powered by Google, but will only search within the posts on The Automata Blog. Just enter a term and hit the gray button that says "Search". You will be directed to a new page that contains all of the search results. This is a good way to find very specific things.

I hope you will take some time to explore the blog. The posts are typically short, so you can see a lot of new things in a short time. I appreciate your visits and your support. Have fun!

-Dug North

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Ingenious Mechanisms for Designers and Inventors, 4 volume book set

The Glory of a Four-Volume Set

A numbered set of four hardcover books in bright orange that all but announce that you are a brilliant inventor. That's what you get with Ingenious Mechanisms for Designers and Inventors. Looks alone may not be enough for most people to buy this set, but when combined with the wealth of information contained within, it was certainly enough for me. I am very happy with my decision. Read on to find out why.

Lots and Lots of Machines

There are a huge assortment of multi-component mechanisms described in great detail in this four-volume set. The books offer multiple solutions for each category of machine. The organization of the material is a little clunky; you will need to browse all four books to find all of the possible solutions for a given mechanical challenge. That's OK: it just means you get to look exceptionally brilliant when someone comes upon you reading all four books at once.

The machines depicted in the books are of an historical nature. This is not a shortcoming, however. Mechanisms of the sort found in these volumes were state-of-the-art at one time. They are a testament to a practical, real-world ingenuity that most of us can't comprehend. These days we would leave the tricky stuff to a computer. The creators of these machines didn't have that option.

Clear Drawings and Heavy Reading

The drawings in the book are very good -- clear and well labeled line art reminiscent of patent drawings. Here's a sample of what you can expect:

Be prepared to spend some time with these books; they require some careful reading of several pages to understand how a given device works. It's not exactly a quick reference, but it is comprehensive.

Uses beyond Vanity: Education and Inspiration

I have not used much from these books directly in any of my automata projects. For automata makers, the more complex systems may seem like a lot to digest. Nevertheless, there are hundreds of mechanical elements that certainly could be used in an automaton or kinetic sculpture. I can say that these books have greatly improved my understanding of complex machines and they have served as inspiration on more than one occasion.

Let's Talk about the Price. Worth it?

The first glance, the price might set you off. Bear in mind that each of the four volumes weighs in at 500 pages or more. That's 2000 pages of detailed information on mechanical devices! The last time I checked (August, 2012) the set was selling for $108 (at 25% off). That comes out a little over $0.05 per page! Compared to less expensive books on mechanisms and devices, this set is actually quite a good deal -- especially if you factor in the free shipping of four heavy books.

While probably not the first book on mechanical devices you should buy, it is a set than any serious student of the subject should have. Here is where you can learn more and order you own set of Ingenious Mechanisms for Designers and Inventors

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Mechanical Principles - film of mechanical movements in action

Check out this 10 minute segment of a longer piece by Ralph Steiner featuring classic mechanical movements. I haven't cross-referenced them yet, but most can be found in the book 507 Mechanical Movements as well as the larger, but similar 1800 Mechanical Movements, Devices and Appliances.

Some interesting movements shown in the film include:
 • Counter mechanism
 • Gears engage on diagonals
 • Square gears
 • Variable speed transfer
 • Rotary to linear action with a 4 tooth cog

[ Thanks Gary! ]

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Book on rare and unusual German Black Forest clocks

The Black Forest Region of Germany produced an amazing assortment of inventive and finely crafted clocks. While there certainly are books on the subject, most are in German. Rare and Unusual Black Forest Clocks by Justin J. Miller is the definitive guide for English-speaking clock enthusiasts. The book features over 700 images that showcase clocks, movements, components, catalogs, and literature related to Black Forest clocks. It also includes detailed biographies of notable clockmakers and clock-making firms.

From the book description:

The text provides much needed information on preeminent clockmakers Johann Baptist Beha and Emilian Wehrle, which place this among the best comprehensive single volumes ever produced in any language. This work also explains the various mechanisms and guides collectors and others trying to identify individual clocks by type, production era, and maker. The engaging text also vividly brings to life both the rich, romantic history of families and entire communities of craftsmen cooperating to create these unique timepieces that have drawn increasing numbers enthusiasts to the excitement of Black Forest horology.

Here is where you can get more info or pre-order the book Rare and Unusual Black Forest Clocks.

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Kurt Koch's reference about how to carve hands

Carving hands from wood (or any material) is an especially difficult challenge. What you might need is a good reference on the subject -- something like Koch Kolleg 5: Hands. Written by carver Kurt Koch, this volume deals specifically with carving hands using illustrations, photographs, and instructions in English, French, German and Spanish.

Here are the specifics of volume on hands:

Instruction in carving the seven known carved motives of hands: the working hand; the hand of the crucified; open hand of a woman; hand with firm grip, half closed hand, hand grabbing something fine and hand of an infant. 44 pages. Over 340 photos.

Woodcraft is offering a huge discount on this little gem -- nearly 50% off. It's a clearance item, so I may not be available for long. Here is where you can get Koch Kolleg 5: Hands.

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Rules of Thumb for Mechanical Engineers

Love the idea behind this book. It gets some great reviews too.

From the book description:

Save time with this collection of straightforward, common-sense techniques that provide quick, accurate solutions to your engineering problems.

Rules of Thumb for Mechanical Engineers assembles hundreds of shortcuts, calculations, practical "how-to" methods, and concise background reviews into one convenient volume.

Whether you're concerned with design, selection, or performance, you'll find fast, accurate answers here - all without wading through pages of theory.

Experts from all engineering disciplines have packed this book's sixteen chapters with design criteria and practical tips. You'll find easy-to-read descriptions on fluids, heat transfer, thermodynamics, seals, pumps, and compressors, drivers, gears, and bearings, as well as piping and pressure vessels. Also covers tribology, vibrations, materials, stress and fatigue, instrumentation, and engineering economics.

Here's where you can check out the details of Rules of Thumb for Mechanical Engineers.

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Mechanisms and Mechanical Devices Sourcebook

Here is my review of the book Mechanisms and Mechanical Devices Sourcebook, 4th Edition by Nicholas Chironis and Neil Sclater.

It's Love!
Though I like my 4-volume set Ingenious Mechanisms for Designers and Inventors, I like this book even better. I am man enough to admit that I fell deeply in love with this book the moment I opened it in a bookstore one day. I resisted buying it, but not for long.

Short and Sweet
My interest in mechanical devices does not typically involve elaborate multi-stage industrial machines. Rather, in the course of building an automaton I will come upon a design challenge that is limited in scope: How do I convert this motion into that motion? I wonder how one might use a gear here?

There are typically any number of potential solutions. This book gives you a great reference tool to explore your options. I find that by browsing this book, my brain is jogged into finding a solution, even if it does not come directly from the book.

Great Graphics
I'm one of those visual learners. This book is ideal for me. The text in this book accompanies a very nice graphic or two. It's concise; that means I'll actually read it rather than just skim over it.

The images in this book use a combination of line art and greyscale tones. This subtle difference really makes the images easier to decipher.

Easy to Use
My favorite method of searching through a book of this sort is to leaf through the pages randomly. However, I should point out that is book has both an excellent table of contents and a full index. (You can see the entire index at Amazon.com if you click on the 'Look inside this book' link above the book cover image.)

In Sum, Highly Recommended
This book is really, really, good. I know it's a little pricey, but it is pretty cheap as engineering textbooks go.

In addition to the stately hardcover, Mechanisms and Mechanical Devices Sourcebook is also available for you Kindle at a greatly reduced price.

I encourage you to order a hardbound copy of Mechanisms and Mechanical Devices Sourcebook, Fourth Editionat Amazon.com.

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Book: Two Odd Volumes on Magic & Automata

I am pleased to inform you of a great new find entitled Two Odd Volumes on Magic & Automata. This book covers most of my favorite subjects: the magician Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin, history, magic, automata and mechanical toys!

'The Sette of Odd Volumes' was a group of book collectors in Victorian era London. They published transcripts of the after dinner lectures that they presented to each other. Two Odd Volumes on Magic & Automata presents two of these lectures in a single volume.

About the first book on magic and Robert-Houdin:

William Manning was a club member who gave an after dinner talk on his recollections of the great magician Robert-Houdin. When Manning was a young boy he met the great magician and befriended Robert-Houdin's sons. His 'recollections' about Robert-Houdin were later published as a small book. Reading it today, over a hundred years after the speech was originally given, one is still struck by how forward thinking Robert-Houdin was and how down to earth. He developed many famous magic acts that are still performed today. Originally trained as a clockmaker, Robert-Houdin built all his own automata and magic props.

About the second book on automata:

Manning's talk on Robert-Houdin prompted another member, Conrad William Cooke, to undertake a brief survey on the history of automata down through the ages. That talk resulted in the second wonderful book included here.

You can read more about the volume, see some of the illustrations, preview sample pages, and order your own copy on this site dedicated to the book Two Odd Volumes on Magic & Automata.

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