Not sure if these were staples in most 19th century homes but the Emotigraph sure is retrogressive. It’s actually another weird invention by Matthew Garten, who is no stranger to Geeky Gadgets. Last time Matthew was featured, however, the man was ears deep in his steampunk phase. The Emotigraph is wholly different. An almost Rube Goldberg device full of small working parts, how it works is pretty delightful.
What is the Emotigraph?
The Emotigraph is being marketed as an active piece of furniture for entertaining others, hence its display of emotions works best when seen by different people. Put a sad face on the Emotigraph in your living room and wait for people to go ‘Hey, why so serious?’ To which you can reply ‘Joker? So 2000 and late bro-ham.’
What you do is feed a specially shaped disc behind the Emotigraph, thereby transforming the cartoonish facial expression it exhibits. So far the Emotigraph can do sad, angry, happy, and surprised. Apparently a few other emotions are available–on .
Not surprising as Etsy is the unofficial frontier of all things cool, bizarre, silly, and brilliant. The Emotigraph borders on the last. It’s surprisingly cheap for U.S. customers as well at less than $5. The price doubles for foreign customers plus shipping.
How Does the Emotigraph Work?
The Emotigraph operates through a simple yet ingenious mechanism. Each disc inserted into the device has a unique pattern that triggers different gears and levers inside the Emotigraph. These mechanical movements then adjust the facial features displayed on the front of the device. For example, a disc with a certain pattern might pull a lever that raises the eyebrows and curves the mouth into a smile, while another disc might lower the eyebrows and turn the mouth into a frown.
This mechanical complexity is what makes the Emotigraph so fascinating. It’s a blend of art and engineering, reminiscent of the intricate automata of the 18th and 19th centuries. These were mechanical devices designed to mimic human or animal actions, often used for entertainment. The Emotigraph brings this concept into the modern age with a playful twist.
The Emotigraph is not just a novelty item; it’s a conversation starter. Imagine having guests over and using the Emotigraph to express different emotions throughout the evening. It could be a fun way to break the ice or add a unique touch to your home decor. Plus, it’s a great example of how mechanical engineering can be used in creative and unexpected ways.
The Emotigraph also taps into the current trend of retro and vintage-inspired gadgets. In a world dominated by digital technology, there’s something charming about a device that relies on purely mechanical means to function. It’s a reminder of a time when craftsmanship and ingenuity were highly valued, and it offers a tactile experience that digital devices can’t replicate.
The Emotigraph is a delightful blend of art, engineering, and whimsy. It’s a unique piece that stands out in a world of digital gadgets, offering a nostalgic nod to the past while providing endless entertainment in the present. Whether you’re a fan of quirky inventions, a lover of mechanical devices, or just someone looking for a fun conversation piece, the Emotigraph is sure to bring a smile to your face—or a frown, or a look of surprise, depending on which disc you choose to insert.
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