CAMS act like small computers which store information that can be turned into movement. They can be very simple or complex and the only limitation is their size. Cams normally work in conjunction with a "Cam Follower". READ MORE
CRANKS are similar to a simple cam. They convert circular movement into a reciprocal one (up and down motion) or vice verse. How ever there are some fundamental differences. READ MORE
GEARS are very versatile and can help produce a range of movements that can be used to control the speed of action. Gears are comparable to continuously applied levers, as one tooth is engaging, another is disengaging. READ MORE
RATCHETS are another form of gearing. Unlike gears which can be used to speed up or slow down movement, the ratchet can only be used to slow things down and it happens in a very jerky manner. READ MORE
LEVERS Are employed in most machines in some form, and you will find that they are used a lot in Automata. It is useful therefore to understand how they work and how to use them in your own designs. READ MORE
PULLEYS work in a similar way to gears except they are not directly joined but linked by either elastic bands, tubular springs or some other flexible but strong material which is referred to as a belt. READ MORE
