How do I program a move?
Sample the first frame and the last, and a few frames in between.
Adjust the focus and zoom. And push the play button.
How do I run a move?
Using the safety rocker, you travel along the path with the camera.
(Similar to the telescopic rocker on standard TECHNOCRANE models,
except the path is a curve and head/lens is programmed into the move as well.)
Can the camera head and focus, zoom and iris run automatically?
Yes, every axis can be run by the program, even camera on/off and shutter.
Can I run the crane automatically and control the camera head manually?
Yes, you can lock the movement of the crane, head or lens into the programmed move. Alternatively, the grip, cameraman or focus puller can do their work manually.
How can I alternate the move?
Basically, by changing, adding or deleting key frames or changing the time between the key frames.
Can I extend the move to the front and to the back?
Yes, by sampling key frames before the first frame or after the last frame.
Can the TECHNODOLLY move without an operator?
For safety reasons, the operator always has to press the “dead-man switch”.
How many moves can I store?
Virtually Unlimited.
How many key frames can I sample for one move?
Virtually Unlimited.
Do I need to zero the TECHNODOLLY
No, the TECHNODOLLY always knows its position.
Can I work with several moves at the same time?
Yes, with the Go To command you can travel between any key frames of any move.
Can I manipulate the move while the TECHNODOLLY program is moving?
Yes, the operator can control the speed along the path with his rocker.
You can also override pan, tilt, roll and zoom while the TECHNODOLLY is moving automatically.
Can I scale the move?
Yes, you choose one key frame and scale the move around this key frame.
Can I start the TECHNODOLLY automatically and shoot passes?
Yes, with the bloop-plate (LED flasher) you can start the shoot precisely and match the passes.
How can I import a TECHNODOLLY move into my CGI program?
You can get a simple ASCII file of cartesian camera positions, camera angles and lens data over time.
Is real-time tracking data available for use with systems like Brainstorm/Vizrt/ORAD?
Yes, the TECHNODOLLY exports tracking data on a RS232/RS485 interface (ethernet will be supported soon).
Can I run my CGI move with the TECHNODOLLY?
Yes, as long as you do not exceed the kinetic limitations of the TECHNODOLLY.
Is the TECHNODOLLY safe?
Yes, the TECHNODOLLY is designed with the assistance of the German Institute for Robotic Safety.
What is the weight of the TECHNODOLLY?
The TECHNODOLLY weighs (including a 25 kg camera and the counterweights) 880 kg.
Each track section of 3 meters weighs 90 kg.
Can I disassemble the TECHNODOLLY?
Yes, but you need 6 helpers to carry the heaviest part by hand.
Will the TECHNODOLLY pass through a standard door?
Yes, it is 78 cm wide and 2.08 meters high.
How noisy is the TECHNODOLLY?
As the TECHNODOLLY runs without gears it is almost noiseless.
How precise is the TECHNODOLLY?
The TECHNODOLLY is better than +/- 0.2 mm.
What is the maximum lens height of the TECHNODOLLY?
4.5 meters.
How fast is the TECHNODOLLY?
It can travel at 2 meters/second on the track, reaching 1 m/sec with the telescopic beams.
How much track comes with the TECHNODOLLY?
The 6 tracks transported in the mobile shelf unit have a length of 3 meters each (18 meters max.)
Can I extend the maximum track length (18 meters)?
Not yet, but we plan to make this option available.
How much electric power do I need to run the TECHNODOLLY?
You need 3 times 220 V/ 16 A or 115V/ 30 A.
Does a longer TECHNODOLLY exist:
Not yet, but in two years' time.
How much does the TECHNODOLLY cost?
The TECHNODOLLY costs approx. 625,000 euros
How much do we have to pay per day to rent the TECHNODOLLY?
The rate per day is approx. 3,500 euro (without a technician).
How many technicians do I need?
Basically one: the TECHNODOLLY operator.
How much time does a camera operator and a grip need to become familiar with the TECHNODOLLY?
Only a few hours (or you'll never get it!)
How much time do we need to be ready for shooting?
As the camera head and the counterweights remain on the TECHNODOLLY you will only need about ½ hour to set up the camera. If you need to lay tracks, you should plan for 1 ½ hours.
