Automation Prolab 2022
ProLab Digital appointed Evolution Scenic & Evolution Technical to create a signature attraction for its store in Viva Riyadh Mall, a large-scale automated installation designed to capture shoppers' attention and showcase the brand's creativity.
The concept centered around a fully automated blooming flower that would open its petals to reveal a mannequin before closing again in a continuous, synchronized sequence. The installation combined scenic fabrication, mechanical engineering and custom automation to create an engaging visual centerpiece within the retail environment.
The Challenge
The installation needed to deliver smooth, reliable operation throughout daily retail hours while maintaining a visually elegant movement that enhanced the customer experience.
The mechanical system had to support large moving petals with precise, repeatable motion while remaining robust enough for continuous operation. Ease of transportation, installation and maintenance were also key project requirements, alongside intuitive controls that allowed store staff to operate the display with minimal training.
Achieving reliable automation without compromising the aesthetic design required extensive research and development.
The Solution
Evolution Technical designed and engineered a bespoke automated flower system powered by a Linak DK-6430 medical-grade actuator, delivering 1200N of force to provide smooth, controlled petal movement.
A custom electronic control system built around an Atmega328P microcontroller automated the complete opening and closing sequence. A wired remote control with integrated LED indicators enabled operators to start, stop and pause the display, while a miniature OLED screen provided real-time actuator status and system diagnostics.
To simplify transportation and installation, the system incorporated aviation connectors that allowed modular assembly while reducing installation time and eliminating connection errors.
Extensive research and development refined the mechanical performance of the installation. Counterweights were engineered to balance the petals, limit switches ensured accurate movement, and the operating sequence was programmed to remain open for approximately 2.5 minutes before closing for 30 seconds, repeating continuously until manually stopped. A dedicated pause function also allowed performers and technicians to safely adjust the installation during setup and rehearsals.
Delivery Highlights
- Custom automation design and engineering
- Large-scale automated blooming flower fabrication
- Linak DK-6430 medical-grade actuator
- 1200N automated drive system
- Atmega328P microcontroller programming
- Custom electronic control circuit
- Wired remote control with LED status indicators
- OLED diagnostics and monitoring display
- Modular aviation connector system
- Counterweight balancing mechanism
- Integrated limit switch positioning
- Research, development, testing and commissioning
Outcome
The completed installation became a striking visual centrepiece within the ProLab Digital store, attracting visitors and creating an engaging retail experience through seamless automated movement.
By combining scenic fabrication with custom mechanical engineering and intelligent automation, Evolution delivered a reliable, visually impressive installation that transformed a creative concept into an operational reality. The project highlights Evolution Technical's expertise in developing bespoke automated scenic solutions for retail, exhibitions and experiential environments.
Project Ecosystem
Client:
ProLab Digital
Venue
Viva Riyadh Mall
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Evolution Technical:
Control Systems • Electronics Programming • Automation Integration • Mechanical Engineering •Testing & Commissioning • Custom Automation • Research & Development
Evolution Scenic:
Scenic Fabrication • Prototype Fabrication • Metal Fabrication • Scenic Finishing • Installation