Mechanisms in Heron’s automata as technological transfer and cultural means

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to discuss the modern value of the automata designs by Heron and to stress the power of Antiquity mechanical design of mechanisms in dealing not only with operation tasks. In addition, an interpretation is proposed to understand those automata as early robots for a proper inspiration of new solutions as technological transfer of accumulated theoretical knowledge and for credit as systems of cultural contents. The paper shows main designs supporting the above arguments and a specific interpretation on how Heron merged successfully automation technology with cultural values.