Animatronics – Another area of application for latex masks
I happened to stumble upon a to me unknown but fascinating field of application for silicone or latex masks – animatronics. The term animtronics as such is a combination of the words ‘animation’, as the masks or puppets are animated and ‘electronics’, describing the way the movements of the masks are actuated. The aim of animatronics is to simulate life and to create realistic and lifelike objects. Its wide usage ranges from props being used in haunted houses and theme parks as well as being used in movie making. The engineering being behind the mask seems to be complex and uses a variety of electric motors, pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders and cable driven mechanisms to achieve the movements and are most often computer controlled. True art in my eyes, but you may wish to take a look at a few more videos yourself: