MACHINES, AUTOMATIC

are machines which, when set in motion with an adequate supply of motive power, perform a series of operations without further intervention from the man in charge. Wood-working and metal shaping machines, for instance, turn out in a practically finished state articles often of intricate shape, the man in charge having only to place the piece of wood or metal in position, adjust and oil the machine, and apply and shut off the power. Weighing appliances afford most perfect examples of automatic machines, as in them no external power is required, and no supervision after first adjustment. Slot machines for the sale of small articles or ascertaining one’s weight, automatic voting machines, and the cash register, are other examples of automatic action.