petebooth[iaac]

Before you even read on any further have a look at this youtube video of the object.

The Cloud, by UK based Troika, is a installation for British Airways in the new Heathrow Terminal 5. The completely CNC fabricated 5m long struture is clad in no less than 4638 flip-dots, which were traditionally used in the 70’s and 80’s on public signs at train stations and airports. The visual and audio qualities that over 4000 mirror discs have as the flip individual are completely reminiscent of travel, and are perfectly suited for the entry to the luxury lounge of the terminal.

Each of the flip-dots are individually computer controlled, programmable by processing. The dots are individually connected to one of two solid state electronic drives, which in turn are linked to 134 smaller distribution boards within the object. In total, almost 5000m of wiring is hidden beneath the clouds glimmering surface.

There is also a great video of the installation process on youtube here.

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