Selectable Gobo Animation for Multiparameter Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiparameter lighting fixtures lack the ability to smoothly rotate gobos with animation effects, which limits their dynamic projection capabilities and aesthetic value in applications like stage lighting and theme parks.
Innovation Solution
A multiparameter lighting apparatus that allows remote control of gobo rotation through a central controller, enabling both smooth and incremental rotations of gobos, with the option to store dwell times and rates in memory, compliant with DMX protocol, to create animation effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a gobo wheel uses a planetary type system with two motors for remote positioning and rotation, then the gobo can be remotely selected and rotated, but the rotation may cause jitter or jerking that distracts the audience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical planetary gobo wheel system with a digital control system using a microprocessor and memory. The microprocessor controls the gobo rotation motor to eliminate mechanical jitter and jerking by implementing software-based motion control, thereby maintaining remote control capability while improving rotation smoothness and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameters of gobo rotation by implementing microstepping techniques and using a unipolar stepper motor with specific electrical characteristics. By adjusting the control parameters (voltage, current, stepping sequence) through digital control, the system achieves smoother rotation without the mechanical imperfections of traditional systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional gobo rotation systems are used, then the gobo can be rotated, but animation effects cannot be created
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic gobo rotation by allowing the gobo to rotate at variable speeds and with variable acceleration profiles. The microprocessor controls the motor to create different rotation modes including smooth continuous rotation and animated rotation with dwell times, transforming a static rotation function into a dynamic, versatile system that can adapt to different performance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates animation effects by implementing periodic action patterns where the gobo rotates to specific positions and dwells (pauses) for predetermined time periods. This periodic rotation and dwelling creates visual animation effects that enhance the performance, adding versatility without requiring additional hardware beyond the microprocessor control system.
3Reliability
If smooth rotation is prioritized without animation effects, then the audience is not distracted, but the aesthetic value and dynamic projection capabilities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by implementing parameter changes in the rotation control. The system can switch between different rotation parameters: smooth continuous rotation for reliability, and animated rotation with variable speeds and dwell times for aesthetic value. The microprocessor dynamically adjusts rotation speed, acceleration, and dwelling parameters based on the selected mode, allowing the system to optimize both smoothness and visual appeal as needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A multiparameter lighting apparatus is disclosed that allows an operator of a central controller to remotely choose a first rotation of a selected gobo of the multiparameter lighting apparatus. The first rotation is typically a substantially smooth rotation. A second rotation can also be chosen, wherein the second rotation causes an animation of the selected gobo.