Yes, I felt the same. While the TFA highlights the "low tech" approach, and it is is undeniably cool, it looks to me more like a successful proof of concept, duct tape and all. The second video shows more detail on the attachment mechanism and my first thought was there are impressively low-friction sleeved bearing mechs which would likely broaden the performance envelope substantially. Also, I thought it would be good to have a snap-in bearing detente with a safety interlock.
The body harness isn't shown but it looks jury-rigged and bulky. There are a variety of low profile harnesses designed for stunt performers doing wire work which could be adapted. I also wondered about reducing friction at the ground plate through flattening the bottom side of the pipes and polishing both surfaces. Applying teflon sheet and/or a light coat of lubricant might further enable substantial rotational velocity to be built up. Perhaps giving the top of the ground plate a slight bowl shape would help keep the pivot point centered at higher speeds.
I think there's a lot of interesting potential with the concept and I hope this artist or others continue to explore it.
The body harness isn't shown but it looks jury-rigged and bulky. There are a variety of low profile harnesses designed for stunt performers doing wire work which could be adapted. I also wondered about reducing friction at the ground plate through flattening the bottom side of the pipes and polishing both surfaces. Applying teflon sheet and/or a light coat of lubricant might further enable substantial rotational velocity to be built up. Perhaps giving the top of the ground plate a slight bowl shape would help keep the pivot point centered at higher speeds.
I think there's a lot of interesting potential with the concept and I hope this artist or others continue to explore it.