A Character You Can Stand Next To
A moving, speaking figure makes a stronger impression than a screen showing the same character. It also brings mechanical complexity, so it helps to understand what you are asking for before commissioning one.
What Is Inside One
The look is only the visible part. Beneath the surface, our physical installation work uses familiar building blocks.
- Skeleton and mounts — a rigid frame that carries the moving parts
- Actuators — servos, motors or air cylinders that create the motion
- Skin and costume — flexible coverings that bend without tearing
- Control and audio — software that times movement to voice and sound
- Safety guarding — covers and clearances so nobody can reach moving joints
Thinking about an animatronic? We offer free consultations on character installations... Let's discuss your character →
Design for Long Running
Moving skin and joints wear out, and an attraction may run all day for months. Plan for access panels, replaceable wear parts and a spares kit. Noise is another factor, since a charming figure with a loud whirring mechanism can break the illusion.
A simpler range of movement, done well, usually looks better than a complex one done badly.
Characters and Rights
If the figure is a licensed character, the owner will approve designs and may have strict rules about how it moves and sounds. Agencies can involve us early through our partner programme so fabrication, control and approval timelines are planned together.
