Theatrical Motion Control Nodes for Real-Time Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current theatrical object movement and control systems lack the ability to switch between control schemes in real-time, require multiple hardware/software integrations, and do not support advanced predictive tracking or infinite rotational axes, leading to inefficiencies and safety concerns in live events.
Innovation Solution
A distributed control model using independent nodes with stored, manual, and reactive control submodules that generate summed control signals for theatrical objects, enabling real-time control and adaptive switching between control schemes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a central computer controls theatrical objects using sequential action lists, then the system provides centralized control capability, but the system lacks real-time adaptability and cannot switch between control schemes during live events
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into multiple independent nodes, each capable of autonomous decision-making. Each node contains separate control submodules (stored control path submodule, manual control submodule, reactive control submodule) that can operate independently. This segmentation enables real-time control scheme switching without requiring a complex centralized architecture, as each node can select and execute different control types autonomously based on real-time conditions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple hardware and software integrations are used to achieve real-time control, then the system gains adaptive capability, but the system complexity and integration requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Each control node is designed as a universal, multi-functional unit that can perform multiple control tasks through its different control submodules. The nodes communicate through a standardized real-time network protocol, eliminating the need for complex custom integrations between different hardware and software components. This universal design allows any node to assume any control role, reducing integration complexity while maintaining high adaptability.
3Productivity
If pre-programmed motion paths are used for automation, then the system provides predictable control, but the system lacks real-time responsiveness to changing conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically switches between different control modes (stored control paths, manual control, reactive control) based on real-time conditions. Each node can transition from executing pre-programmed motion paths to responding to real-time sensor feedback or manual intervention without interrupting the overall automation flow. This dynamic adaptability maintains productivity while enabling real-time responsiveness to changing performance conditions.
4Ease of operation
If manual control is used for pointing fixtures at targets, then the system provides operator flexibility, but the system lacks safety and predictability in live events
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates real-time feedback through sensors that continuously monitor the position of theatrical objects and targets. This feedback is processed by the control nodes, which can automatically adjust positions to maintain safety margins and predictability. Operators retain manual control flexibility, but the feedback mechanism provides continuous safety verification and can intervene automatically if unsafe conditions are detected, combining operator flexibility with enhanced reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
An automation and motion control system and method to control a plurality of theatrical objects. The control system includes a plurality of nodes and an operator console node in communication with each other over a real time network. The node corresponds to a device for control of a theatrical object. Each node of the plurality of nodes and the operator console node include a microprocessor and a memory device. The operator console node further includes a stored control path submodule, a manual control submodule and a reactive control submodule. Each of the stored control path submodule, the manual control submodule and the reactive control submodule generate an independent control signal. An active control submodule generates a summed control signal in response to the independent control signals from the stored control path submodule, the manual control submodule and the reactive control submodule. The summed control signal is provided to a node process, providing control to at least one device.