Just looking at the mechanical linkage to the tank’s systems is impressive. But inside, it is clear this is a genuinely analog computer. The thing is built — quite literally — like a tank.

Unlike some common mechanical gate schemes, [Anthony’s] gates use gears to implement the logic operations. He sent the designs off to a laser cutter service and got back parts cut from 3mm acrylic.

More importantly, everyone was thinking about mechanical solutions to problems. In that milieu, it seemed natural to think of computing in terms of gears, chains, sprockets, and cams.

The computer will automatically adjust to riding conditions, satisfying the human element. It would not be hard to imagine extending the concept to entirely automatic mechanical gear-changing system.

Mechanical computers are computers that operate using mechanical components rather than electronic ones. Historically, these mechanical components have been things like levers or gears.

And while they heyday of the giant, sophisticated mechanical computer may be long gone, the logic behind its many interlocking gears and pegs and cams is as mesmerizing as ever.