The latest version of Visual act's operator desk was selected as it is especially designed for permanent installations, providing an ergonomic work area suitable for many hours of use on an everyday basis. Three operator desks were installed - one of which is wireless and can be moved to the house for rehearsals.
The control system has fully redundant servers and positioning computers, so that failure of a component will not stop the system. System tests and backups can be carried out, as well as the replacement of components, without pausing work on the stage.
Intelligent drives communicating over Profibus replaced the existing centralized system - resulting in the removal of eight tonnes of cable. A second Profibus system handles the absolute encoders, allowing for independent control of position and safety. The existing machinery incorporated both DC and AC motors. This is now transparent to the user: each drive is handled in the same way, with the same properties and messages. The installation was completed and taken over by the customer on schedule and without extra costs, say Visual act.
Project manager Jim Fainberg told us: "We believe this type of installation will be more common, as it is possible to update a system to the latest standards without a total refit of winches and mechanics. Customers' demands for greater efficiency and to meet the latest safety standards can be handled within a reasonable budget. The system is both economical and at the forefront of technology."
The work was carried out in close cooperation with Visual act partners Browik El and Lönne Maskin.
(Lee Baldock)
