Many of the newer controllers include 3-Dimensional modeling and pre-visualization of programed moves of scenery or curtains. Controls are now able to provide a greater level of informational feedback. Faults in the system are readily displayed and pinpointed for the operator. An improved level of safety is possible by this mon- itoring and robust E-Stop systems located at critical points through- out a facility. A common option with many of the newer packaged hoists is “load monitoring.” The hoist will actively monitor the value of the load applied to it and report this back to the controls for dis- play to the operator. Limits on the load may be set at the controls, a valuable option for controlling who may be able to hang what from a given hoist. The development of the packaged hoist and associated controls is marked by several key features:
• Standardized components across devices • Limited options to meet the most common needs of stages • Standardized controls and wiring within a manufacturer’s ecosystem. • Engineered around common power available in most facilities • Engineered to accommodate to a wide range of structural- supports. • Improved manufacturer support for maintenance and repair by standardization • Greater safety features including load monitoring, multiple
NEW CHOICES AND NEW CONSIDERATIONS
any performance venue. Adding or including motorized rigging is a critical decision. A thorough review of a facility’s needs can help to determine the right blend of systems to support the venue’s perfor- mance program, whether that be packaged hoists, control systems, or any manual equipment. When selecting motorized rigging, there are several important considerations: • Initial Cost – The cost to purchase and install rigging can be
choices of system and components can result in an economical and sustainable system. • Ongoing Costs – Manual rigging systems tend towards a “set- it-and-forget-it” mentality. The addition of motorized rigging requires a more systematic approach to ongoing maintenance and annual inspection of motorized systems. This is something that is often omitted when planning around manual rigging only.
• Future Costs – It is not uncommon to see manual rigging systems operating for 30 years with little to no maintenance or component replacement. Motorized rigging requires a planned approach to the upgrade and replacement of system compo- nents. Choosing the right system and manufacturer can go a long way to minimizing these future costs and ensuring that these needs can be met.
in a facility. These include: • Increased safety through system fault monitoring, load monitoring, and operator access. awareness. • Reduced labor costs. • Reduced set-up or load-out times.
The development of the packaged hoist and associated advanced
controls has changed rigging, as much the electronic dimmer and networked control console did for theatrical lighting. Venues are no longer limited to highly customized devices for advanced motorized theatrical rigging solutions. Custom rigging will remain a viable - torization can be served by the modern packaged hoist. FM
Jody Kovalick, ASTC, is Principal Theatre Planner with Schuler Shook based in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
IAVM 29
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