Kinetic installation relies on Rodriguez
Rodriguez supplies 44 customized slewing rings for the kinetic art installation Umbilical by British artist Conrad Shawcross
The large-scale construction with 40 interlocking arms continuously intertwines a cable and reproduces movement patterns of the solar system. The installation, which is around ten meters high and twelve meters in diameter, requires bearing technology that combines continuous operation with high axial and radial forces as well as torsional and tilting moments.
The mechanical implementation was carried out by engineering firm Brier Solutions, with Rodriguez being involved via R.A. Rodriguez UK. The ability to quickly implement customer-specific solutions and experience with special bearings were decisive factors. Special ball bearing slewing rings are used, which are otherwise used in construction and machine tools, cranes, robotics and wind turbines. With Umbilical, the mechanics are visible and become part of the artistic experience.
