Zoetroop

Zoetroop is a term that may refer to a modern interpretation or branding of the traditional zoetrope, a device that creates the illusion of motion from a strip of sequential images. In many uses, the word appears as a project name or product label rather than a distinct historical device. Some sources treat it as a playful variant or misspelling of zoetrope, while others describe a range of educational or artistic devices inspired by the original concept.

A typical zoetroop-based device consists of a cylindrical or wheel-shaped body with a sequence of drawings or photographs on the inner surface and a set of viewing slots on the outer wall. When spun and viewed through the slots, the persistence of vision produces the impression of movement. Modern adaptations may incorporate LEDs, microcontrollers, or digital displays to synchronize imagery with rotation, enabling easier frame control and compatibility with video content.

History and usage: The original zoetrope was introduced in the 1830s by William George Horner and became a popular affordable animation device in the 19th century. The term "zoetroop" is not widely standardized in scholarly sources; in contemporary maker culture, it is sometimes used to describe hobbyist kits that update the concept with electronics or smartphone integration.

Applications: Zoetroop-like devices are used in education to demonstrate persistence of vision and basic animation principles, in art installations to create interactive visuals, and in hobbyist projects that explore frame-by-frame storytelling.

See also: Zoetrope, Thaumatrope, Persistence of vision.