Former Top Gear presenter Richard Hammond is set to present a new Channel 4 show where engineering enthusiasts will fight to create the most ingenious contraptions from everyday objects.
In the seven-part series, matching titles Richard Hammond’s Crazy ContraptionsTeams go head-to-head to build their own chain reaction machines – mechanisms made from everyday materials that enable basic homework in complex ways.
The show will also use the buildings to “discover fundamental sciences and engineering principles required in a fun, engaging and open way”.
Candidates are given the challenge each week to design, create and display a new construction in four days.
They also receive the support of Zach Umperovitch, the world’s largest authority on chain reaction machines, which explain scientific principles.
The teams are judged on the basis of their invention, design and build quality as they fight to be crowned champions at the end of the series.
Hammond said: “As soon as the idea was explained to me, I was hooked. I tried to build my own chain reaction machine during the lockdown – it did not work out well!
“My failed attempt, however, made me appreciate the talent, creativity and determination of our teams.
“That said, in the triumphs there were also many spectacular mistakes and disasters.
“I am convinced that the series will be a great watch for the whole family, not only providing the very left field entertainment, but also presenting science and engineering in a fun and accessible way.”
The 52-year-old has presented numerous shows during his career, including co-host of BBC Two Top Gear at Amazon Studios’ The Grand Tour with Jeremy Clarkson and James May.
The show’s executive producer, Dom Bowles, said: “We were thrilled by the enthusiasm, creativity and skill of the teams as they produced machines that sometimes left us speechless.
“With his love for all mechanical things, Richard Hammond was the natural choice as a host. Richard wholeheartedly threw himself into the project, and enjoyed a fantastic rapport with both teams and our on-screen expert Zach Umperovitch.
“I just hope viewers enjoy watching the show as much as we did.”
Channel 4 commission editor Jonah Weston noted that it was a science program “like no other” because it emphasized “true invention” and “technical ability”.
He added: “Chain reaction machines have taken social media by storm, and Crazy Contraptions offers participants the unique experience to showcase their own invention and engineering skills in a fun and creative environment.”
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