Masiina

During the Science Centre’s renovation, a steam robot factory called Masiina (Fin. Machine) established in the 1860s was surprisingly found underneath the building. The factory was founded by the ingenious inventor and machinist Alfred Didrik Härvelin.

The factory was ahead of its time, but its prime was cut short when other buildings were built onto the block. Masiina was forgotten by history, until an unknown cellar was uncovered during Tietomaa’s and its tower’s renovation. Now, over 150 years later, this forgotten part of Oulu’s (fictional) history will once again be presented to the public.

The lively exhibition combines the imaginative world of Härvelin’s steam machines and the modern science centre, as well as robotics. Visitors will explore a historical factory facility trying out their skills in different sensory and mobility challenges. And in the middle of this wondrous world, you might run into the pride and joy of Masiina, the last robot built in the factory – not to forget the factory’s mighty steam power engine!

At the interactive exhibition, visitors move around in an environment that resembles an old factory hall. Some exhibits are located in the factory’s turbine hall. The hall’s central element is a large and imaginative engine.

The exhibition includes over 20 interactive exhibits where visitors get to test their skills in various challenges. The visitors’ reaction speed, visual and aural memory, physical performance, deduction skills, balance, and multitasking skills will be put to the test.

The challenges connect to Masiina’s story as the Machinist Härvelin used them to find the best workers for the factory. For example, good reaction speed meant working at the conveyor belt, and a good visual memory might have made you the director of the component sorting department.