Automaton

A postulated interior of the Duck of Vaucanson (1738–1739)
Clockwork crayfish automoton, made in Augsburg in 1589, Technical Instrument Museum, Dresden
Pinocchio automaton

An automaton (/ɔːˈtɒmətən/ ; pl.: automata or automatons) is a relatively self-operating machine, or control mechanism designed to automatically follow a sequence of operations, or respond to predetermined instructions.[1] Some automata, such as bellstrikers in mechanical clocks, are designed to give the illusion to the casual observer that they are operating under their own power or will, like a mechanical robot. The term has long been commonly associated with automated puppets that resemble moving humans or animals, built to impress and/or to entertain people.

Animatronics are a modern type of automata with electronics, often used for the portrayal of characters or creatures in films and in theme park attractions.

  1. ^ "Definition of AUTOMATON". www.merriam-webster.com. 2024-01-04. Retrieved 2024-01-25.