Orbit 

After developing the initial concept, I created a working maquette using small bearings to serve as a proof of concept. The original design featured four spheres, each divided into two separate hemispheres. This design allowed one hemisphere to spin independently of the other, with the entire structure rotating freely using the appropriate bearings.

I started with hand-drawn conceptual renderings to explore a mechanical approach suitable for a full-sized version. Computer-Aided Design (CAD) was essential for refining the mechanical components. Once I found a solution for the movement of the elements, the idea of incorporating motors came to mind. This idea sparked my interest, and I became excited about the challenge of adding one motor to rotate the entire composition, along with four smaller motors for each individual hemisphere.

This ambitious addition led to months of engineering, research, and revised drawings. I went through numerous CAD iterations, sourcing motors that fit within the limited space of each hemisphere, and meticulously combed through bearing catalogs for the right specifications. The final drawings detailed every aspect, including motor drive units, torque and revolution calculations, and the design of motor mounts and drive pulleys, all within the confines of each hemisphere.

Mechanical engineering drawings were critical for precise machining. I collaborated closely with experienced machinists, providing them with the detailed drawings needed to execute their part of the work. Each machined component went through a multi-step, multi-tool process, crafted from solid billets of aluminum. Additional parts for the sculpture were laser cut from stainless steel sheets, with the hemispheres themselves sourced directly from a manufacturer. 

304 stainless steel | 92 x 54 x 54 inches

800 lbs.

YouTube Video Credit: Emily Gregoire

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