Moving Light Luminaire Manual Follow Spot Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Stage lights, particularly moving lights, lack the ability to seamlessly transition between automated pan and tilt control and manual follow spot mode without compromising the use of automated light effects, leading to potential errors and delays in lighting synchronization.
Innovation Solution
A moving light luminaire that allows manual pan and tilt control through removable handles while maintaining remote control over automated functions like light effects, enabling users to switch between automated and manual modes without disrupting synchronized operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If the luminaire operates in automated pan and tilt mode, then remote control and automation are improved, but manual follow spot capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The luminaire implements dynamic mode switching between automated and manual operation. The control system can transition between DMX-controlled automated mode and manual follow spot mode, allowing the pointing mechanism to adapt its control characteristics based on operational requirements. This dynamic flexibility resolves the contradiction by enabling both automated and manual capabilities at different times.
Solution Approach 2:
The luminaire is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as an automated moving light with remote control, or as a manual follow spot device. The same physical device supports both modes of operation, making it universal. This multi-functionality allows the system to adapt to different performance needs without requiring separate equipment.
2Ease of operation
If the luminaire operates in manual follow spot mode, then manual aiming capability is improved, but automated light effects control is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into independent functional areas: pan/tilt pointing control and light effect control. In manual follow spot mode, the pan/tilt function operates manually while the light effect functions (color, intensity, gobo) remain under automated DMX control. This segmentation allows selective manual or automated operation of different subsystems, resolving the contradiction between manual aiming and automated effects control.
3Ease of operation
If removable handles are used for manual control, then ease of handling is improved, but risk of accidental detachment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle attachment mechanism incorporates a redundant safety feature: a cable that physically connects the handle to the luminaire body. This safety cable acts as a backup connection that prevents accidental detachment while the primary magnetic or mechanical attachment provides ease of handling. The cushioning principle is applied by having a secondary protective measure in place before detachment can occur.
Data Source
AI summary
A luminaire that has multiple removable handles thereon, and can operate in multiple different modes, including a mode where a manual follow spot can occur. To operate in the manual follow spot mode, the luminaire is placed into a free moving mode in which it can be moved, and then the luminaire is moved using the removable handles to manually place the luminaire in a desired location. Then, the luminaire is commanded to remain in that desired location by turning on breaks or the like. In the manual movement mode, movement of the luminaire is manually controlled and not remotely controlled and all of at least color, gobo, beam size and other parameters are remotely controlled.