1957- Japanese Humanoid Robots and Toy Robots – Jiro Aizawa (Japanese)

Jiro Aizawa, born 1903, is very significant in terms of Japan's history of robots, toy robots in particular.  (also Dr. Aizawa, Uncle Robot, Dr. Robot, Zirou Aizawa, Dr. Aizawa Zirou, and 二郎相澤 in Japanese.) In 1910*1, when in 5th grade, Aizawa saw his first mechanical man in a London exhibition [RH Note that the word robot was not …

1951 – Mechanical Elephants by Frank Stuart in America

It is difficult to trace the origins of the Frank Stuart’s Mechanical Elephants in America. I’ll present some published information that gives clues to their linearity. The earliest date I have found so far is the delivery of Cunningham’s [Department Stores in Michigan] “Jumbo”  is June 1951. The Billboard 23 June 1951 The large Cunningham …

1951 – Mechanical Horse – Bogart (American)

Source: Mechanix Illustrated Oct, 1951. Source: Popular Mechanics Jan, 1954 Galveston Daily News 11 Mar 1953 Hold Your Autos; Horse A-Comin' CLEVELAND, Ohio (UP)—No reaction has come from the automotive world as yet, but George Bogart's invention would seem to be a cinch to cause a stir. He invented a horse. The 62-year-old inventor began …

1947 – “Blowtorch” Mechanical Horse – W.J. McIntyre (Canadian)

See video preview here. A second video can be seen here, but you need to create an account and log-in first. Search for "NEW DERBY HOPE" "Tractor Classic", May/June 2004, Vol. 19 #3, pages 25-26. "Blowtorch" currently on display at : Western Development Museum, Moose Jaw Branch – History of Transportation.      50 Diefenbaker Drive Moose …

1951 – Unknown Robot – (French)

AU SALON DE L'AUTOMOBILE, UN ROBOT FAITS LA COUR AUX DAMES C'este un robot qui reçoit les client d'un des stands du Salon de l'Automobile. Il mesur 1m.83 et pèse 83 kg. Il marche; parle, répond aux questions des visiteurs; baisse les yeux; et rougit devant les femmes; mais est très sensible à leur charme …