The Writer Automaton

[darklotus1211]

This is a clip from the BBC show Mechanical Marvels and I thought you'd enjoy it. It's a 250 year old self contained programmable automaton that actually writes and is not only a fascinating feat of engineering, but beautiful. I'm off to see if I can find the whole show now...

Click to view

Comments

[droxy]

I've seen that. The innards reminds me of my sewing machine with the cam structure. it's amazing to have lasted and was probably hugely expensive in its day.

[darklotus1211]

I thought the same thing re my sewing machine too.

[teddyradiator]

That was remarkable - so beautiful and enchanting. He must have been very much loved, so have survived everything (wars, time, relocations) and still remain so perfect. I would have a hard time not wanting to watch him write daily.

[darklotus1211]

I'm right there with you teddy - a fascinating piece and what stories it could tell.

[rangerishot]

What an absolutely fascinating clip! I'm definitely going to forward it to my friend who sends out his generic Friday email regarding the weird and wonderful things on the Internet. Most people on the distribution list are engineers, mechanical ones at that, and I know that anything mechanical will get them going.

I cannot believe it's as old as it is, too! :-)

[darklotus1211]

It is fascinating, isn't it? I hope your friend and his mailing list enjoy it.