Follow Spot Controller Orientation Sensing for Luminaire Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing follow spot systems face challenges in synchronizing color and intensity changes between multiple operators, with operators' skill variations leading to inaccurate and slow tracking of performers, and difficulties in safely and comfortably positioning operators in challenging locations.
Innovation Solution
A follow spot controller with a processor and communication interface that senses its physical orientation, receives control parameters from a lighting control desk, and adjusts pan and tilt parameters for automated luminaires based on a 3D model of the performance area, allowing for remote and precise control of multiple luminaires.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple manual follow spots with operators are used, then coverage of performance area is improved, but synchronization accuracy between follow spots deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A central controller acts as an intermediary between the lighting control desk and multiple automated luminaires. The controller receives control parameters from the lighting control desk and automatically distributes synchronized control signals to all connected luminaires, ensuring they move and change parameters in unison. This eliminates the coordination difficulties inherent in manual operation while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control systems with automated electronic control. Instead of operators physically adjusting follow spots, automated luminaires with motors and electronic control circuits execute precise movements and parameter changes based on digital control signals, dramatically improving synchronization accuracy while maintaining multi-point coverage.
2Area of stationary object
If operators are positioned in difficult locations, then lighting coverage is improved, but operator safety and comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The automated luminaire system is self-controlled through electronic programming and automatic tracking algorithms. The luminaires independently execute their functions based on pre-programmed parameters and real-time position data, eliminating the need for human operators to be physically present in dangerous or difficult-to-reach locations while maintaining full lighting coverage capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical adjustment by operators is replaced with automated electronic control systems. Motors, sensors, and microcontrollers enable the luminaires to automatically position themselves and adjust parameters without human intervention, removing operators from hazardous environments while preserving comprehensive lighting coverage.
3Measurement precision
If automated luminaires are used, then control precision is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed as a universal device that can manage multiple automated luminaires simultaneously through a single communication interface. It handles various control parameters (position, intensity, color) for multiple fixtures through standardized protocols, reducing the need for separate control systems for each luminaire and thereby managing complexity while maintaining high precision control.
Data Source
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AI summary
A follow spot controller is provided that communicates with a lighting control desk and with a first automated luminaire. A physical orientation of the follow spot controller is sensed and used to replace pan and tilt control parameters received from the lighting control desk for the first luminaire. The modified control parameters are sent to the first luminaire. A three-dimensional model of a performance area and the locations and orientations of the first luminaire and additional automated luminaires relative to the performance area may be used to calculate individual pan and tilt parameters for the additional luminaires based on the first luminaire's replacement pan and tilt parameters.