Rodriguez manufactures rotary joints for the movable space object UMBILICAL

For the large-scale installation by Conrad Shawcross, Rodriguez supplied a total of 44 custom-made rotary joints in various sizes. (Image: R.A. Rodriguez UK (Ltd.))

Storage technology usually works invisibly in the background. In the case of the kinetic art installation UMBILICAL, however, it becomes a visible part of the artwork itself. For the large-format installation, in which giant yarn spools weave a rope in an never-repeating sequence, Rodriguez GmbH supplied a total of 44 custom-made rotary joints in various sizes.

The work of British artist Conrad Shawcross consists of 40 interlocking arms that continuously weave a rope, tracing the movements of the solar system. With a height of ten meters and a diameter of twelve meters, the installation combines artistic vision with high technical complexity.

Precise technology for continuous operation

The mechanical implementation was developed by the British engineering firm Brier Solutions. Through their contacts with R.A. Rodriguez UK, a supplier of precision components, the German Rodriguez GmbH was involved in the project as a specialist for storage technology and custom solutions. Since the installation moves continuously throughout the year and is only stopped once a year for a spool change, the requirements were high: the components used had to operate precisely, reliably, and durably at all times, and at the same time withstand relatively high axial and radial forces, as well as torque and tilting moments despite their compact dimensions. Quiet operation was also very important to the customer.

Key to the collaboration was not only the technical suitability of the products but also Rodriguez's ability to quickly and precisely implement custom solutions. The company has many years of experience in the development, manufacturing, and assembly of bearing solutions and supplies international customers from various industries.

Customized ball rotary joints

For the realization, Rodriguez developed special ball rotary joints. They are particularly suitable for applications requiring high load capacity and precise movement sequences. Therefore, they are typically used in demanding areas such as construction and machine tools, cranes, automation, robotics, aerospace, medical technology, or wind turbines.

At UMBILICAL, this technology was transferred into an unusual context: unlike in classic industrial applications, the mechanics are not hidden but are visible and directly experienceable by the audience. "With this project, we were able to demonstrate that we can respond flexibly to unusual customer requirements and special installation situations. We find the right solution for almost every application," emphasizes product manager Martin Stremmel.