This series encourages the reader to explore simple design and technology concepts and try them out in practical projects. Each book explains the basic principles of the subject, starting with fundamental concepts of functional design, such as those found in nature, and working through to advanced modern technology. Each section opens contains a practical project or experiment to illustrate the design principles involved. Colour illustrations explain the practical projects, while colour photographs are widely used to enhance the main text. In this book the authors guide the reader through the basic concepts of machine technology, looking at simple levers, wheels and pulleys. Labour-saving devices are shown incorporated into more complicated machinery, such as windmills, pumps, clocks and the internal combustion engine. Data sorting is developed into computer technology and process automation leads to an investigation of robotics. The book also looks at machines of the future.