The work involved replacing the drive electronics for 119 fly bars and point hoists. The system installed is capable of operating all the drives simultaneously. This was amply demonstrated during the testing period, as Visual act technicians made the most of the empty stage by programming continuous movements and effects involving all 119 drives.
The installation of a new control system for the Norwegian Theatre in Oslo, Norway
Three operator desks were installed. The latest version of Visual acts Operator Desk was selected as it is especially designed for permanent installations. It provides an ergonomic work area suitable for many hours of use on an everyday basis. One operator desk is wireless and can be moved to the house for rehearsals.
The control system has fully redundant servers and positioning computers. Failure of a component will not stop the system. It is possible to make tests and backups as well as replace components without pausing work on the stage. Intelligent drives communicating over Profibus replaced the existing centralized system. This resulted in the removal of 8 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.
“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 done in close cooperation with Browik El and Lönne Scandinavia AB.