Zoetrope: A Simple Animation Device

Have you ever wondered how animation works? In this project we will use a simple machine, called a zoetrope, to begin learning how to create successful animated films. A zoetrope is a simple pre-film animation device that produces the illusion of motion by displaying a sequence of drawings or photographs showing progressive phases of motion. A very successful toy zoetrope was produced by Milton Bradley in 1866.

Learning Goals:

• You will learn how a zoetrope works.

• You will explore how to make a simple animation sequence.

Activity:

Imagine a simple action; a bouncing ball, a flower growing, the sun rising. Think about each moment in that action. How many tiny moments are in even the simplest action? How would you make an animation of it?

1. We will be using 3D printed zoetropes to view or animation strips. Before making an animated paper strip think about how the zoetrope might work; Where do you need to look to see your animation?, What directions should you spin the zoetrope, or does it matter?; how fast should you spin the zoetrope?

2. Cut a Piece of register tape approximately 1 foot long this will be the base for your animation.

3. Think about a simple action you would like to animate. Some suggestions include; a bouncing ball; a growing flower; the rising sun; a running or walking stick figure.

   • How many many poses or moments are in that sequence of events?

   • How many frames or images in your sequence should you draw?

4. Experiment! draw different numbers of sequences, Try to find the combination of frames and spin speed to create an interesting animated sequence.

5. Talk with your classmates, share the successes and learning that took place along the way.