Mechanical Principles Kinetic Mechanisms

Mechanical skills workshop for adults and teens aged 14+ run by Discovering 42 and Stephen Guy.

Using a box, pre-made parts, chopsticks, and various bits and pieces, participants can make a cam drive mechanism that bursts into kinetic life at the turn of a handle!

Individual designs and decorations are inspired by the flow of the movement, using a variety of art/craft materials. The mechanical parts are all push-fit and can be adjusted to enable experimenting with different cam formations and profiles as part of learning about cams and mechanical control systems.

In February 2015, Stephen Guy’s workshop created the longest-linked automata with 57 machines that stretched across several tables at 8.5 meters and broke the world record.

This workshop is split into morning and afternoon sessions, please make sure to book a ticket for your preferred time.

This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Community Renewal Fund. Cornwall Council has been chosen by Government as a Lead Authority for the fund and is responsible for monitoring the progress of projects funded through the UK Community Renewal Fund in Cornwall.