Each Visual act Advanced Wagon has a complete navigation system on board allowing the user to create a virtually unlimited range of movement.  Using a patented algorithm, wagons can move along curves, maintain one face forward as they move, or rotate and move forward simultaneously.

Wagons are built according to the following specifications:

• Full freedom of movement in two dimensions plus unlimited rotation.
• No cables, wires or other mechanical limitations.
• Operation on most floor surfaces, including dance floor.
• All components in a height of 200 mm.
• User programming and operation from a single point.
• Multiple operators and operating positions.
• Up to 16 wagons in operation at any time.
• Synchronization of any number of wagons.
• Speeds of up to 1 m/s.
• Position repeatability to less than 5 mm.
• Reusable components.

A Visual act Advanced Wagon System consists of one or more control desk, one server and up to 16 wagons.

Poeun Art Hall, YongIn, South Korea. Photo by Visual act AB

Programming the wagons involves creating sequences of movements that are organized as ques. After selecting the wagon or wagons to be moved the operator uses the mouse to “drag” the wagon into position virtually, much like adjusting a curve in a PC drawing program. Alternatively, the operator can use the teach-in function to save a manual motion. For accurate positions, coordinates, angles and distances can be entered directly. Two or more wagons can be combined into a group such that several wagons appear to function as a single wagon. Movements can also be tested “off-line” by running the cues on the screen.

All the components are modular and easily installed in the wagon framework.  They can therefore be reused in wagons of different shapes and sizes and quickly replaced for service.