JD Automation 3D Performer Flying System

Click here to see specifications on JD Automation Performer Flying winches

Brief Description

The JD Flying System is winch based and designed to give flexibility of configuration, to simplify and speed up the whole process of setting up any performance without having to write complex programmes.

Any number of winches can be rigged and grouped to operate as ‘single pendulum’, ‘2 axis inter-related track’, ‘2D bridle’ and ‘3D bridle’, or a combination.

• Profiles, or flight paths, are simply taught in real time via joystick control.
• The taught profiles, both position and speed, are captured and saved.
• Saved profiles can be replayed and edited in real time, again via the joystick.
• Profiles can be recalled and set up as cues via the operators console.
• Profiles can be grouped and set up as a cue.
• Digital signals can be sent to trigger other effects at any points within profiles.
• Fixed profiles such as circle, helix, spiral etc can be selected from the systems library. Favourite moves can be saved to the library.
• To help with choreography, profiles can be taught on one group of winches whilst a profile is running on another.

The Operator Console consists of a standard laptop PC that plugs directly into a low profile docking station where the joysticks are fitted. This means that the laptop may be taken away by the operator for reasons of safety/security. The laptop is of course the ultimate mobile console, connected to the main control unit via industrial Ethernet allowing the operator to roam at will, (the docking station is not required except when teaching profiles via the joysticks).

Alternatively a fixed desk type console can be supplied.

All winches are driven by ac brushless servomotors with resolver feedback. Servo drive modules are in groups of up to four fitted into a flight case. Servo drive modules may be added as required, again simply connected via industrial Ethernet.

The system conforms to BGV-C1 and safety is paramount.

In addition to the mandatory safety requirements such as double braking and hardware limits etc, the JD system incorporates an optional ‘Supervisory System’.

The ‘Supervisory System’ is a completely independent controller with its own CPU running in parallel to the Master Controller. With its own encoder following the output side of the winch gearbox, the Supervisory System independently monitors the performance comparing it to the Master Controller and will abort all motion in the event of an unacceptable miss match.

The system is packaged in flight cases. Comms are via Industrial Ethernet and all connections are via plug and socket for speedy set-ups.