Paul and Rex came over Sunday to help with bending the ribs. This is a crucial step for the Tower as the ribs form the hyperboloid frame and are a major structural and visual element. Things went fine for a few passes through the tubing roller, then a crunching noise and the bearing broke. Bummer... Ordered a new one, hopefully stronger than the last. We'll try again soon.
Paul and Rex stayed on to build a level platform for erecting the hyperboloid once we do get the ribs bent. This will be critical for getting it all level and plumb.
Despite the setback I'm still ahead of where I need to be at this point. Here's a photo of Paul and Rex hard at work!
Well, here I am making sparks, grinding away...seems to be my life these days... cutting and welding and grinding. Some days I am reminded that I am no longer in my twenties. (imagine that!) Ibuprofen is my friend....
For company I have a family of ravens in a nearby ponderosa. Every time mom or dad returns with food, the babies squawk their little heads off: "feed me! Feed ME!!
So the old street sign above my shed door "Raven Circle" seems apt for my yard... maybe they are my totems??
Making progress despite the continued winter-like weather. Finished the base frame today. It may not look like much but this was a big portion of the work. Lots of cutting, grinding, fitting and welding.
Also, I received my first check from Burning Man! I'm thrilled to be part of their art process. There is tons of support for the grantees and it has been fun to interact with the other artists on the online forums. The other day I was on a conference call with artists from Hungary, England and Canada.... fun!
Here's a picture of the base frame.
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