Large Floor-Standing Walkaround Display Model – BRAND NEW
Description — More Photos — Videos
Designed and built as a one-off by Nigel Loller.
Constructed from stainless steel and welded together.
There are some unique design and mechanical features in this machine that you will not see in any other rolling ball sculpture anywhere.
This model stands approximately 1.9 metres tall including its 0.7m detachable legs (not shown), and is 1.2m x 0.8m in area and floor space.
It can be moved short distances fairly easily by two people.
Available to buy on Ebay UK: view listing.
If you are looking for a different size then custom-built versions can be made, either floor standing, or smaller versions to be placed next to a wall, on a table top, or wall-hung.
Future models will be linked from the Rolling Ball Sculptures page.
Please contact Nigel on 07781 440091 or email motionwelding@gmail.com for more details.
General description of the run :
Two lifts at opposite corners quietly raise the balls (small snooker balls) using three different lifting mechanisms.
Different types of separating mechanisms divide the balls down eight different tracks.
The 8 tracks intertwine and interact and include features such as :
- loops
- spirals
- half loops
- vertical and horizontal zigzags
- many other unique designs
The lift motor has a speed controller for speed adjustment, so the number of balls circulating at one time can be varied.
Various technologies have been included to separate potential points of congestion.
The rolling balls make some noise as they proceed over the tracks, loops and separators. The display may need to be glazed or even double glazed if it is installed in an environment which needs to be quiet.
Construction :
- 30mm brushed finish 16 gauge (1.6mm wall thickness) box section stainless steel frame
- 3mm diameter wire track
- 1 3/8″ diameter snooker balls which would normally fit a half size snooker table
- Motor – automotive electric power steering motor
- Speed controller 30A pulse width modulated using a 12V supply
- 240V transformer giving a 12v, 5A regulated power supply
(or a 12v automotive or deep cycle battery for standalone use)
N.B. Power supply is not included in listing price but can be supplied as an option
Interesting facts :
- Ball diameter 1 3/8″, tolerance in ball diameter 0.1mm. Some colours excluded because they fall outside the tolerance.
- Around 230 metres of 3mm wire used to make the track
- Weight moveable by two people – not measured yet
- 200 hours design and build time to current state, exclusive of any extra options
Precautions to ensure correct function:
The machine must always be set up in place to ensure it is level so that the balls perform on all parts of the machine correctly. Adjustable feet are included with the leg extensions to enable this, but a spirit level is also needed (not supplied).
Professional installation by the builder available as an option.
The equipment is mainly welded stainless steel so construction is sound, however the lightweight and winding nature of the tracks means that the machine should never be subjected to shock, dropped, or any of the innards subjected to excessive force.
The tracks may vary in performance dependent on various factors, including temperature, type and solidity of floor, humidity, and newness (stickiness) of the balls running on it. Professional setup by the builder in situ is recommended. The machine has been designed and tested on a solid floor. Due to forces generated by the balls as they travel around the tracks, a solid floor or surface is required for the machine to sit on.
No guarantees are provided for use on a springier wooden floor or thick carpet, for example.
Safety considerations :
The machine is currently open with access to all areas including motor-driven parts.
If it is to be used in a public area or where children or pets may be, then optional glazing should be chosen, please ask for a quote.
Optional extras :
- Single glazing for safety, or
Double glazing for safety and greater noise reduction
- Cleaning of all welds for more “polished” appearance
- Power supply
- Replacement balls
- Personal delivery (southern UK or northern France only)
- Professional onsite installation by the builder
More Information :
The machine may be operated away from an electricity supply if used with an automotive or deep cycle 12V battery.
Where mains power is available a transformer may be used to supply the power.
Potential customers / uses / locations :
- Large private house
- Technology exhibition or museum
- Events organisers
- Large hotels
- Public areas such as airports or harbours
- Waiting areas
- Shopping Mall or shop window display
- Educational touring piece, for school visits or careers or crafts exhibitions
The machine has been on display at Paints the Jewellers in St Peter Port, Guernsey.
Customs Duties :
VAT or sales tax will likely be payable in addition to the item price, at your country’s applicable rate.
Questions
Any questions, please ask.
Buy
Want to purchase this item? It is available to buy on Ebay UK, item 180650814328.
Description — Photos — Videos
Photos
Description — Photos — Videos
Videos
N.B. More videos are available for specific parts of the machine which will be added later. Please ask if you need to see more videos.
Description — Photos — Videos