Shotoku Broadcast with New VR/AR Tracked Camera Cranes at IBC 2017
Shotoku Graphica 390
Shotoku has announced plans to introduce the European market to Graphica, its recently launched series of manual virtual / augmented reality (VR / AR) tracked camera cranes in Amsterdam at the IBC 2017 show. The series is the result of a partnership with crane manufacturer CamMate, known for its quality of engineering.
Shotoku Broadcast Systems' Graphica Series - launched at recent NAB 2017 - blends the company’s VR technology with the engineering know-how of crane maker, CamMate. The result is a range of manual VR / AR tracked camera cranes with tracking capabilities in a portable package that is scaleable, stable and, most importantly, repeatable. Graphica calculates positional data output from embedded physical rotary encoders designed specifically for VR applications. Free of the jitters, external markers, and area limitations often associated with other positional tracking systems, Shotoku encoders seamlessly process data via the SPI interface to provide real-time data output, in the studio or on location.
The SPi-Touch origin reset and 2-Point calibration function adds another level of convenience and high production flexibility. A true set-and-forget system, complete calibration is needed only once and can be achieved in 20 seconds. SPi-Touch comes standard on every model.
Suitable for all types of production, 7 models of varying lengths are available to create dynamic camerawork in the smallest studios or the largest of outdoor sporting events. Custom-made carry cases for easy transport are included with every purchase.
Highlights
SmartPed Robotic Pedestal
The company is also showcasing its SmartPed Robotic Pedestal, a fully robotic XY pedestal launched in 2016. SmartPed addresses the creative and commercial demands of on-air environments with a cost-efficient and high-performance solution.
SmartTrack - Ceiling Mounted Rail Track Camera System
Shotoku will demonstrate a ceiling mounted SmartTrack rail camera system, including full elevation control. The demonstration will show a level of camera control that can really only be achieved with a ceiling mounted track / elevation system. Following its success in the unique “Glass Box” studio at Sky News UK, the ceiling based SmartTrack has proved itself as a high-end track based system.
VR/AR Tracking
Free-d2 Absolute Tracking System
The company will also show its Free-d2 Absolute Tracking System, a next-generation tracking system that does not require physical encoder devices attached to the camera support’s moving axes. The Free-d 2 system, which is ideal for VR/AR news, sports and current affairs live studio productions, uses advanced video processing algorithms and simple ceiling markers to precisely determine the exact position and orientation of the studio camera, thus providing highly accurate and constantly referenced (absolute) position tracking.
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