The Story of "The Chase"
I figured it was about time to design another automata that I could offer a plan for sale. Perhaps something a little challenging but not to much for an avid woodworker or hobbyist to take on. I have had numerous requests but have not added new plans for some time. I wanted something fairly small and "shelf size". I envisioned a scene where a big fish would be chasing a smaller fish with with the intention of having him for dinner. The smaller fish is quick and the big fish can never catch him. Simply going around in a circle seemed to simple so I decided on an oval trajectory. This led to the requirement of using a chain as the motion path. I decided I would call the automata "Little Fish, Big Fish".
As I was building it I pondered many other characters that could be involved in a chase scenario. Perhaps a car chase, two athletes, a romantic pursuit, a pair of animals, or even animals chasing people - the scenarios are endless. As a result I renamed this piece "The Chase" which meant I could produce a collection of characters or objects that could be interchangeable. For now the video, photos, and plan depict the two fish as originally contemplated, but anything is possible.
For anyone interested in building a small automata project and has rudimentary wood working skills, buy a plan for my web store, build the piece, and send me a picture showing me what characters you choose and I'll be happy to post it on this webpage for all to see!
As I was building it I pondered many other characters that could be involved in a chase scenario. Perhaps a car chase, two athletes, a romantic pursuit, a pair of animals, or even animals chasing people - the scenarios are endless. As a result I renamed this piece "The Chase" which meant I could produce a collection of characters or objects that could be interchangeable. For now the video, photos, and plan depict the two fish as originally contemplated, but anything is possible.
For anyone interested in building a small automata project and has rudimentary wood working skills, buy a plan for my web store, build the piece, and send me a picture showing me what characters you choose and I'll be happy to post it on this webpage for all to see!
Automata "The Chase" Video
Building "The Chase" Photo Gallery
As an automata maker I break things down this way. Designing automata is fun, cutting out the parts once designed is easy, but putting them together has to be done slowly, purposefully and with precision! These photographs are a random collection of photos taken during the assembly of "The Chase".
