self-acting
Needs no operator
Self-acting describes something that operates automatically, without external control or human intervention.
The term appears most often in mechanical contexts: a self-acting valve opens when pressure reaches a certain point, a self-acting brake engages without the operator.
The mill used a self-acting mule for spinning thread.
Self-directed and free
- automatedOperating without human control
- feedbackReturned response data
- servomechanismFeedback-controlled automatic mechanism
- sensorInput-detecting device
programmed · cybernetic · unmanned · autopilot · thermostat · governor
Spring-driven gear system
- gearsToothed rotating machine parts
- mechanismMeans by which something operates
- leverPivoting bar for lifting
- pulleyGrooved wheel for rope
camshaft · actuator · flywheel · ratchet · linkage · cogwheel · escapement · spring-loaded
Free from external control
- free-standingNot fixed to anything
- unaidedWithout external support
- unassistedWithout outside help
- decentralizedLacking single authority
standalone · agency · initiative · proactive
Productive without waste
- time-savingReducing required duration
- productivityOutput relative to input
- streamlinedMade smooth and efficient
- hands-freeOperable without holding
effortless · unattended · appliances · machinery · devices · gadgets · tools · equipment
autonomous
Self-directed and free
- automatedOperating without human control
- feedbackReturned response data
- servomechanismFeedback-controlled automatic mechanism
sensor · programmed · cybernetic · unmanned · autopilot · thermostat · governor
clockwork
Spring-driven gear system
- gearsToothed rotating machine parts
- mechanismMeans by which something operates
- leverPivoting bar for lifting
pulley · camshaft · actuator · flywheel · ratchet · linkage · cogwheel · escapement · spring-loaded · pneumatic
independent
Free from external control
- free-standingNot fixed to anything
- unaidedWithout external support
- unassistedWithout outside help
decentralized · standalone · agency · initiative · proactive
efficiency
Productive without waste
- time-savingReducing required duration
- productivityOutput relative to input
- streamlinedMade smooth and efficient
hands-free · effortless · unattended · appliances · machinery · devices · gadgets · tools · equipment · convenience
self-actingmanual
Written instructions for use
hand-operated · nonautomatic · nonautomated · hand-cranked · hand-powered
action, active, self, acting, autonomy, selfless, automation, selfhood