A kinetic sculpture consisting of 168 individually positionable metal spheres above a water basin adorns the entrance area of a hotel complex in Taiwan as a central eye-catcher. But there is a lot of technology behind this light and graceful work of art.

The exhibition stand construction company Kurt Hüttinger faced the following challenge: The system had to be easily accessible for maintenance, even though the entire technology had to be installed within a meter-high inaccessible false ceiling at a height of four meters. The installation period was very tight, as the artwork was only to be installed shortly before the official opening. A cable elevator had already been installed in the shell of the building to permanently accommodate the technical unit. In order for the spheres to move dynamically to the music, a highly complex routing of control, audio and power cables was required. This should function reliably, not get in the way in any operating situation and be quick to install.

Practical cable drum solution
"We found the perfect solution for our cable problem with the Igus E-Spool," explains Stephan Hessberger, Head of Design at Kurt Hüttinger. The energy chain is suitable for supplying energy in confined spaces and is guided via a roller. Integrated return springs ensure the correct length and tension of the energy supply system. In the starting position, the E-Chain is completely rolled up to save space. The compact twister band connects the roller to the shaft bracket, which serves as an interface to the permanently installed cables.

The cable drum was filled with cables in advance, mounted on the unit and tested in operation. "Only with this solution was it possible to fly a fully assembled work of art manufactured in Germany halfway around the world and install it quickly," says Hessberger enthusiastically. During assembly, the complete unit including the E-Spool was placed on support wheels, attached and raised by personnel. The loose end of the E-Spool was then mounted on the ceiling provided by the customer and the prepared plug connections were made. Further installation could begin immediately and the work of art could be put into operation. as