At Lumis Automation, we take pride in delivering innovative and reliable solutions for complex automation needs. One of our recent projects involved the design, build, and software development of a highly specialized gantry system for two walls used in movie recording studios.

Project Overview

The two walls, each weighing approximately 20,000 lbs, were mounted to move on a shared rail system. These walls, critical to the recording process, required precision in movement across three axes:

• X-Axis (Forward Direction)
• Y-Axis (Side-to-Side Movement)
• Theta Axis (Rotation)

Key Challenges

One of the biggest challenges in this project was managing the potential for the two walls to collide, given their shared rail system and significant weight. Safety and precision were paramount in ensuring the walls could move seamlessly within their designated areas while avoiding crashes.

Solution

To achieve the precise control needed, we integrated Omron Automation’s servo systems with EtherCAT communications protocol for real-time, high-speed data transfer between the components. This setup provided reliable control over the movement of the walls across all three axes.

To further ensure safety and maintain operational efficiency, we integrated the following features:

• Dual Safety Scanners: Two safety scanners were placed at the bottom of the walls to monitor the presence of humans. If a person entered a defined proximity, the system would automatically slow down or stop to prevent accidents.
• Limit Sensors: Limit sensors were installed to keep the walls within a designated area, ensuring they didn’t exceed the boundaries of the recording studio. This prevented potential damage to the walls or the surrounding infrastructure.

Safety First

Our solution was designed with safety as a top priority. In addition to the safety scanners, we implemented a comprehensive monitoring system to ensure that any potential hazards were mitigated in real-time, protecting both equipment and personnel.

Conclusion

This project demonstrates Lumis Automation’s expertise in creating tailored solutions for the entertainment industry. By utilizing advanced servo systems, real-time communication protocols, and robust safety features, we were able to deliver a gantry system that met both the performance and safety demands of the movie recording studio.

If you’re looking for custom automation solutions that prioritize both precision and safety, Lumis Automation has the expertise to help. Contact us today to discuss your next project!