In an innovative display of technology breathing life into art, Atlas Copco’s electric portable air compressor, the E-Air H185 VSD, played a leading role in an art performance at Prague’s ARCHA+. At the heart of the show, designed by renowned Canadian artists Louis-Philippe Demers and Bill Vorn, were robotic exoskeletons that controlled the movements of the performers’ arms; creating a dance where machine and human bodies became one. Combining artistry with advanced engineering, the Atlas Copco unit supplied a stable flow of compressed air that was key to the smooth and synchronised operation of the exoskeletons.

Held in the challenging underground space of ARCHA+, ‘Inferno’ faced unique technical requirements that traditional stationery or diesel-powered compressors were unable to meet. Fortunately, the electric E-Air H185 proved the ideal stand-in performer, with its compact, portable design and powerful 10-bar pressure meeting the precise demands of this unconventional environment.

While Atlas Copco’s E-Air H185 VSD compressor may not be typically associated with the art scene, the ‘Inferno’ performance is proof of the versatile application of industrial equipment beyond conventional sectors. Designed to deliver high efficiency with minimal noise pollution, the unit enabled a calm, focused environment for both staff and attendees – crucial for maintaining the integrity of an immersive artistic experience.

"The E-Air provided a stable, unobtrusive power source that was fundamental to the success of our show," stated Jakub Hykeš, production manager at ARCHA+. "Its compact form and quiet operation allowed us to keep the focus on the performance, enhancing the interaction between humans and machines in ways that exceeded our expectations".

A key feature of the E-Air H185 VSD is that it produces no local emissions – a critical consideration for the ‘Inferno' project. Its electric drive eliminates the need for an internal combustion engine, meaning the unit maintains a consistent supply of clean air, aligning with the event’s commitment to more sustainable practices. This aspect was particularly important given the venue’s underground location, where air quality and noise control are vital to both performers and audience members. Moreover, the E-Air H185’s energy efficiency minimised power consumption, making it a highly efficient and cost-effective choice.

Artist and audience response

The distinctiveness of the performance lies in how the machines are directly installed on the viewers’ bodies, transforming the audience into active participants. The exoskeletons controlled the movements of the performers' arms, creating a fascinating choreography that unites technology and the human body. Attendees were captivated by the performance’s seamless integration of technology and human movement, enabled by the E-Air H185. Each motion, powered by compressed air, brought a precise and responsive dimension to the exoskeletons, facilitating an interplay between human and machine that redefined the possibilities of live performance.

The future of art and technology

The E-Air H185's role in ‘Inferno’ offers a new perspective on industrial solutions in creative fields, where generators are typically seen as the standard for powering artistic shows. While portable air compressors are usually linked with construction and industrial uses, the E-Air H185 demonstrated its adaptability by supporting an art installation in an unconventional setting. This collaboration highlights how innovative technology can broaden the scope of artistic expression, connecting machinery with cultural applications.