Karakuri the low-tech Tea Server
posted October 25th 2005 11:30PM
Sure, it's easy to build a robot out of circuit boards, sensors, and other pre-fabbed parts, but see how well you
fare when your only supplies are wood, springs, and gears. Karakuri the tea server is said to be Japan's very first
robot, initially built in 1603 out of simple parts, designed more for amusement than functionality. Well now you can
build a Karakuri of your very own, or have a pre-assembled one delivered, thanks to the Jameco Robot Store. Imagine the
fun you'll have breaking out this simple bot at your next tea party, watching your guests' reactions of surprise and
amusement as Karakuri approaches with tea, waits while they drink, and silently retreats once they replace the cup. The
do-it-yourself kit costs $90, while the premade Karakuri is $170, and both are available immediately.
[Via Shiny Shiny]
I went to a museum filled with these things in Kanazawa Japan this summer. They had the first one and many other very cool primitive robots.
Does this remind anyone else of the end of Ghost In The Shell 2?
The guy that had himself turned comletely into an android had this scuttling little tea-bot and it looks alot like this.
Alcaron, It was also showcased in a Samurai Champloo episode. That anime series was great for Japanese history.
this is crazy.. i know a few people who would think this is a badass x-mas present. where in the US can i pick 1 up?