An automaton is a self-operating machine designed to automatically follow a predetermined sequence of operations. This interactive experience allows a nurturing relationship to bloom between the automaton and the observer. The automaton’s pace could be controlled by the observer such that the closer the observer gets to the automaton, the slower it would move and react. This notion replicates the sense of nurture and caress.

Through an informal user study, observers experienced a sense of meditation and harmony while interacting with the automation.

The contrast between the exposed electronic components and the automaton’s delicate characteristic highlights the relationship between human affection and computational properties.

The rings are painted with conductive paint to act as a proximity sensor, so when a person gets close to it to caress, it slows down or pauses resembling the notion of calmness associated with this type of affection.