Cirque du Soleil, known for its fantastic stage presentations, incorporates multiple technological systems in complex ways to bring magic to its audiences. The Technology Behind Cirque du Soleil’s Mystère Cirque du Soleil, known for its fantastic stage presentations, incorporates multiple technological systems in complex ways to bring magic to its audiences. Terry Persun Stage Events Aug 24, 2026 This is Part 1 of our behind-the-scenes coverage of Cirque du Soleil's Mystère. Read Part 2 here . In a recent conversation with the technical staff behind Cirque du Soleil’s Mystère — which is coming up on its 15,000 th show — we at Entertainment Engineering learned a lot about the technologies used to literally keep things moving. It’s important to note that the team behind Mystère is continually upgrading and swapping out older technologies for newer ones as they become available. We’re going to talk about what systems are being used today and will fill you in on changes as they occur down the road. In a show that is primarily made of acrobatics, both ground and aerials, it’s interesting to note that there are actually 45 axes of motion automation used in the show. Fourteen axes are incorporated as line sets or lighting trusses over the stage. Then there are four lifts, twelve performer flying axes, fourteen scenic axes, and one turntable. Images courtesy of Cirque du Soleil. In most theatres the line sets would be operated using a counterweight system where the counterweight is on the side and there is a batten over the stage. In this case, a motor would be used to assist the counterweight’s up and down movement. The Mystère theatre is unique in that the batten that goes across the top in the high gridiron — which is more than nine stories above the lifts below — is connected to a continuously operating hydraulic rotary piston motor. If seven lift lines are being used, there are seven drums across the top. The direct drive hydraulic motor rotates all of the drums on a common shaft. The drums also move back and forth across the top of the stage as they wind and unwind so that the cables are always exactly vertical. The large backdrop in the show, called the sky, is a three-axis system that can tilt up and down, move up and down completely, and can rotate on its axis. All of this with precision positioning. Images courtesy of Cirque du Soleil. The overall hydraulic package incorporates four 100 horse motors, each with a sixty GPM Vickers variable displacement piston pump attached to it This configuration creates the 2,000 psi necessary to run all of the hydraulics systems for the show. Since the show only requires three units to operate, the fourth unit is basically redundant. Presently, the main turntable in the show is driven using this hydraulic system connected to an endless steel cable. The turntable is one piece of the lift kit used to raise and lower stage components when needed. The lift systems are some of the few elements that use 50 hp AC induction motors running a mechanical lifting system created by Gala Systems. The company’s Spiralift is an ultra-compact system that can unspool and flatten back into compact storage coils when lowered. In the show, the lighting designers actually use the Spiralift units as part of the scenic elements. Images courtesy of Cirque du Soleil. The turntable itself sits on top of one of the lift kits. The crew has infinite speed, acceleration, and deceleration or AVD (acceleration, velocity, deceleration) control, all of which can be changed on demand even though most of the rotation is preprogrammed ahead of time to keep the show operations as consistent as possible. Because there are a number of actors involved — the human aspect — things can change in how long it takes to do a particular maneuver or scene. That’s why the stage manager needs to be able to alter the timing of events on the fly. With live artists and different audiences for every show, deviations can happen quickly, making the show slightly different every evening. Images courtesy of Cirque du Soleil. The only exception to using the hydraulic system as the show stands now is in the opening act where the actors fly out and over the audience. This segment of the show uses Emerson servo motors. Connecting the Pieces Mystère incorporates TAIT Towers Navigator™ software as the central control system for the show. Navigator is the user interface that the automation crew integrate with to program show sequences ahead of time. From this information input, all of the motions are transferred through machine code to the hardware system that actually runs the 45 axes of motion. Literally all of the automation systems are programmed through Navigator, which unifies all of the complex elements of Mystère including lifts and line sets and turntables. The overall automation is controlled using the TAIT Navigator system, which is specifically designed for machinery automation in the entertainment industry. The Navigator platform integrates with standard industrial grade Beckhoff Automation hardware and TwinSAFE technology to provide real-time, safety-critical control for Mystère. Some of the Beckhoff equipment is integrated with the moving stages, winches, lighting, and other elements. Beckhoff systems including all of the PCs and PLCs, the safety logic systems, and the I/O cards for various show elements. Mystère was the original set show for Cirque du Soleil in Las Vagas and has kept many of the original people who have been with the show from that beginning, maintaining a consistency in shared knowledge that is important in such complex stage performances. For information: Cirque du Soleil TAIT Towers Beckhoff Automation Vickers Hydraulics Gala Systems Emerson This is Part 1 of our behind-the-scenes coverage of Cirque du Soleil's Mystère. Read Part 2 here . Read more about stage productions >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Japanese drama uses multiple Blackmagic cameras and DaVinci Resolve Studio for grading. Hi-Tech Cameras Used to Shoot TV Drama Japanese drama uses multiple Blackmagic cameras and DaVinci Resolve Studio for grading. Terry Persun Film and TV Jun 19, 2025 Blackmagic Design recently announced that the ABC TV and TV Asahi network drama series “It's a Wonderful Teacher!” was shot on Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 12K and Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro digital film cameras. Additionally, DaVinci Resolve Studio was used for grading the series. “It's a Wonderful Teacher!” is a television drama produced by ABC TV starring Erika Ikuta. The series depicts the struggles of a young high school teacher, Rio Sasaoka, from Generation Z. In the show, Rio experiences so much stress in her second year of teaching that she considers quitting. However, by addressing challenges in modern education and building relationships with her students, she gradually grows as an educator. According to cinematographer Akiyoshi Konno, who was in charge of shooting the series, "Since the story is set in a high school, there are more than 30 cast members in the classroom scenes. Because of this, we used a multi camera setup. The main camera was the URSA Mini Pro 12K, while the B and C cameras were Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pros. We divided the classroom in half, first shooting one side of the students and then moving to the other." Konno continued, "It's rare to be able to shoot a TV drama in RAW in Japan, but since the goal was to achieve a cinematic look, I decided to shoot in 24P Blackmagic RAW. I personally own Blackmagic Design cameras, so I was already familiar with their ease-of-use and excellent color quality. Additionally, for a multi camera shoot, the Pocket Cinema Camera was an affordable option, which was also a key factor in choosing it." The series was filmed using SIGMA 18-35mm and 50-100mm cinema lenses. Practical lighting techniques, where light sources are visible within the frame, were also incorporated into the production. DaVinci Resolve Studio was used for grading. After completing the first episode, Konno attended the grading sessions to discuss skin tone adjustments and color emphasis. “Additionally, I created a LUT combining ARRI and Kodak LUTs in DaVinci Resolve and used it during the shoot," said Konno. Konno said that one of his favorite features of Blackmagic Design cameras is their easy-to-use false color function. “Given the time constrains of a TV drama production, it was incredibly useful for fine tuning colors and monitoring lighting levels,” he concluded. For information: Blackmagic Design: https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/ DaVinci Resolve: https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/davinciresolve “It’s a Wonderful Teacher: https://japan-programcatalog.com/en/program/itsawonderfulteacher Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

The locomotives will be able to use power from overhead lines, traction batteries, and a new model diesel generator, reducing noise and fumes around maintenance crews. Upgrading Old Diesel Locomotives to Hybrid and Overhead Line Operation The locomotives will be able to use power from overhead lines, traction batteries, and a new model diesel generator, reducing noise and fumes around maintenance crews. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff Apr 2, 2026 Swiss-based Müller Technologie is using ABB traction equipment to upgrade old diesel locomotives to hybrid and overhead line operation. This technology will enable three driving modes, giving the locomotives greater flexibility and a new life to meet changing environmental requirements. The capability for zero-emission operation will be especially useful at work sites and in tunnels. While rail is already among the cleanest modes of transportation, there is still considerable potential for improvement. Consequently, the industry is moving towards sustainable solutions that significantly reduce carbon emissions and environmental impact. Müller Technologie’s diesel locomotives are generally used in construction, maintenance, shunting, and cargo services. One of their main tasks on maintenance and construction sites is to supply power for electric tools. Previously, this meant that the diesel engine had to be run in idle mode all the while the locomotive was at the work site. The resulting fumes and noise were an inconvenience, especially in urban areas, tunnels, and during the night. Old diesel locomotive and new hybrid locomotive. All photos courtesy of ABB. Müller Technologie’s innovative Aeam 841 hybrid locomotives are based on the original diesel locomotives and are now being converted to enable the three-mode operation (tribrid). Following the conversion, the locomotives will be able to use power from overhead lines, traction batteries, and a new model diesel generator. Müller approached ABB as a technology partner to help develop the traction chain solution and supply the necessary equipment. The project required high operational reliability and cost efficiency, as well as the need to fit the traction equipment into very limited space. It was also necessary to implement the conversion without modifying the locomotive body, as this would ensure a more straightforward approval process. The existing diesel-electric locomotives had a 920 kW engine powering a generator, with the output fed via a two-level traction converter of 724 kW being upgraded to four motors totaling 1000 kW. During the conversion the diesel engine was replaced with a 500 kW unit capable of running on renewable fuel, and the original electric motors were completely overhauled and retained. Advanced Traction Solution The traction system supplied by ABB consists of BORDLINE® CC1500 AC Compact Converter, eBox, Traction Batteries, and a traction transformer. The BORDLINE Compact Converter is a highly integrated solution which includes a line converter, two traction converters, two auxiliary converters, and a Traction Battery Chopper including low pass filter. Aeam 841 hybrid locomotive. All photos courtesy of ABB. Its three-level traction converters are around 7-9% more energy efficient than the locomotives’ original two-level units. They put less stress on the motor insulation and have lower harmonic losses which means additional energy savings in the motors. The regenerative braking function provides further energy savings by feeding braking energy into the Traction Batteries or overhead line. The eBox provides an interface between the converter and batteries and includes the Battery Management System. The traction batteries are based on LTO (lithium-titanium-oxide) cell technology, which has the advantage of very short charging times. It will be possible to charge the locomotive’s batteries from empty in around 20 minutes, enabling a full recharge during a short break in the working day. The traction batteries can be charged from the overhead line, diesel generator or depot power supply. Sustainability Through Low-Emission Operation The retrofit project prepares the 5 locomotives for a sustainable future and will extend their lifetime by 25 years. The project itself is being implemented on an environmentally-friendly basis, with 28 tons of steel—including the old engine, traction converter, and some body panels—being recycled from each locomotive. As well as retaining the existing motors, the chassis and bogie frames have been overhauled and adapted to meet new requirements. This way, the vehicles are given back to the market as rental locomotives, with important savings of steel. Retrofitting old locomotives with energy efficient technologies aligns with climate protection goals, promoting sustainable rail transport. Hybrid locomotive with overhead line. All photos courtesy of ABB. The locomotives will reduce CO2 emissions to a minimum improving the working conditions of the personnel, by reducing fumes and noise. ABB’s traction chain allows silent operation during the night and in densely populated urban areas. The hybrid locomotives will be capable of operating without the need for external energy sources over several assignments. Müller Technologie has calculated that they can use overhead lines to power 80% of their trips, with the remainder covered by the traction batteries or diesel generator. Overall, diesel consumption is expected to be reduced by up to 85% compared to pre-conversion figures. This equates to 8,500 liters of diesel fuel per locomotive that will be saved every year. The capability to operate emission free at work sites is an important advantage of the new locomotives. The Traction Batteries are therefore not only used for propulsion, but also supply the tools used on site. Adopting sustainable alternatives to traditional diesel engines significantly reduces carbon emissions and helps the rail industry to decarbonize. ABB’s extensive expertise along with the comprehensive traction solutions for sustainable transportation will pave the way for a leaner and cleaner future. For more information: ABB Bordline Compact Converter Müller Technologie AG Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Acoustic echosounder simultaneously collects bathymetric, seafloor backscatter, and water column backscatter data to identify seafloor and water column features. Mapping the Seafloor for Underwater Explorations Acoustic echosounder simultaneously collects bathymetric, seafloor backscatter, and water column backscatter data to identify seafloor and water column features. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff Sep 9, 2025 Header image caption: High-resolution seafloor mapping revealed unusual pancake-like features of a seamount in the Moonless Mountains chain in the Eastern Pacific. To plan efficient and safe operations, Nautilus (sea exploration ship) often creates its own seafloor maps—particularly when exploring little-known regions of the ocean. To facilitate this operation, the ship incorporates various equipment that provides high-quality seafloor maps at depths to 7,000 meters (23,000 feet). Whether focused on a canyon, seamount, or shipwreck, creating a map allows the crew to identify potential targets, cutting down exploration time and boosting mission efficiency. Before ROVs are deployed, the team must first map the area to understand the characteristics of the region and identify potential benthic habitats, seeps, and other environments and resources worthy of exploration. In addition to informing dive objectives, Nautilus transit routes cover unmapped areas of the ocean and contribute to the Seabed 2030 initiative, an international collaborative project to combine all bathymetric data in order to create a comprehensive map of the ocean floor. Nautilus. All images courtesy of Ocean Exploration Trust. Multibeam Echosounder Mounted on the hull of the vessel is a Kongsberg EM302 multibeam echosounder capable of accurately producing state-of-the-art maps covering large areas of the seafloor. The echosounder maps the seafloor at depths between 50 and 7,000 meters (300 to 23,000 feet) while cruising at ship speeds up to 12 knots (14 mph). The transmit array emits acoustic pulses that ensonify the seafloor with a wide fan-shaped swath of sound, while a second transducer receives the return signal echoes. Each pulse sends many beams of sound in a fan shape toward the seafloor. When these pulses strike the seafloor and return to the transducer/receiver combination mounted on the hull of the ship, the system computes a “sounding” associated with each returning pulse via the time it took to travel down and up through the water column. Because the ship is moving between the transmit and receive functions, a motion sensor connected to the system allows the echosounder to “steer” the sound pulses to correct for the ship’s rolling and swaying motions. This allows the ship to collect an even distribution of data from the seafloor. Received soundings are combined with the ship’s Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) information, to produce a grid or “digital elevation model” of ocean bathymetry—essentially a topographic map of the seafloor. Images such as those from Google Earth and other satellites offer very little modern depth observations and only provide general highs and lows of deep-sea topography. A depiction of the seafloor using satellite data (left) and after a Nautilus pass (right) with multibeam sonar data processed in QPS Qimera. All images courtesy of Ocean Exploration Trust. The multibeam echosounder acoustically “sees” different scales and resolutions at different depths. When Nautilus is mapping, the multibeam sonar fan covers a different width (scale) on the seafloor depending on the depth, however the number of measurements across the swath of the fan remains the same. In shallow water, the soundings are closer together delivering many details of the seafloor in a small area (higher resolution data). In deeper water, fewer details are available (lower resolution) but the multibeam fan of soundings covers a much wider area. In addition to the depth, the signal strength that the sonar receives back from the seafloor (“backscatter”) will be different depending on the type of seafloor that reflects the ping. By making corrections to this signal to account for the changes as it went through the seawater from the ship and back, the processing can extract information to indicate variations in the seafloor type. Reflections from rocky seafloor will generally provide a stronger signal than a muddy area. Backscatter measurements are then combined in another grid called a backscatter mosaic, which can be combined with the bathymetry grid to provide a better understanding of the shape and seafloor type. The multibeam echosounder can also detect phenomena in the water column, such as plumes of bubbles emanating from the seafloor that indicate gas seeps. To date, the Nautilus has documented thousands of methane seeps along the Cascadia Margin off the Oregon and Washington coast. Sound waves reflect strongly off gas bubbles emanating from the seafloor. All images courtesy of Ocean Exploration Trust. Exploring Sub-surface Faults Revealing structures below the seabed is just as important as discovering the seascape and habitats above. To complement the multibeam mapping work, the team uses a Knudsen 3260 sub-bottom profiler and echosounder. Mounted inside the hull of Nautilus , the echosounder operates at low frequencies to penetrate and reflect off of the layers of sediment, revealing a cross-section of the seafloor structure. The dual-frequency profiler operates at 3.5Khz or 15Khz (two discrete channels with separate transducers) and is capable of full ocean depth soundings. An acoustic pulse is directed through the water column to the seafloor and then captured by the system as it bounces back from each layer. Scientists use this data to identify subsurface geological structures such as faults, ancient channels, and buried levees. In early 2023, Ocean Exploration Trust installed a Kongsberg Simrad EC150-3C 150 kHz transducer on E/V Nautilus . Mounted within the ship's hull, the EC150-3C is the first of its kind to combine an acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) and an EK80 split-beam fisheries sonar into one instrument. The ADCP, which measures the speed and direction of currents at various depths underneath the ship supports safe remotely-operated vehicle (ROV) operations and provides data for improving oceanographic current models. The integrated split-beam echosounder maps and characterize features found within the water column, such as biology, scattering layers, and potentially bubble plumes. The EC150 will equip E/V Nautilus with the capability to better serve as an operations hub for multi-vehicle operations, increase OET’s capacity to explore and map the water column, and to collaborate with partners from the Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute to advance combined robotics and new technologies to increase and advance the pace of ocean exploration. For more information: Ocean Exploration Trust & Nautilus Live Kongsberg Simrad EC150-C Seabed 2030 Qimera Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Filmmakers and businesses get a creative refuge where they can plan, shoot, edit, score, and finalize projects. Virtual Production Stage for Film Filmmakers and businesses get a creative refuge where they can plan, shoot, edit, score, and finalize projects. Edited by Terry Persun Film and TV Jun 24, 2025 35North Studios is a state-of-the-art production studio that allows creators a peaceful space to focus on their craft and enjoy the process. The company’s full-service approach provides their clients with a well-equipped studio situated in Clear Lake, Iowa. At its 12-acre campus, 35North Studios operates out of a 225,000-square-foot-facility that includes soundstages and editing suites, in addition to a recording studio, equipment rental house and production office space. With an eye on the trends shaping entertainment and production, 35North Studios’ executive leadership began paying close attention during the pandemic lockdowns when virtual production projects started to accelerate. They conducted extensive research and evaluations into virtual production methodologies and the technologies that enable them. Soon after, they committed to building their own virtual production stage. Also from Entertainment Engineering: Photo courtesy of 35North Studios. “It’s just ingrained in us to always be looking forward and to stay ahead of the curve with the latest industry tools,” said Justin Fairfax, Director of 35North Studios. “We also saw the opportunity to be an early adopter in the Midwest.” Technically Advanced 35North Studios’ virtual production workflow features an OptiTrack camera tracking system—a 3D optical tracking technology with sub-millimeter accuracy for virtual production stages and other industry applications. OptiTrack is a 3D precision tracking systems that provides low latency output, easy to use workflows, and a host of developer tools. The system’s primary markets include drone and ground robot tracking, movement sciences, virtual production and character animation for film and games, and mixed reality tracking. The specific OptiTrack system used by 35North Studios is comprised of 12 SlimX13 cameras—a lightweight, high frame-rate capture product that includes a discreet profile and is designed with simplicity and usability in mind. The system also includes CinePuck, a camera tracking tool for virtual production studios that can be seamlessly integrated into any production workflow. The studio’s stage is also equipped with fine pitch LED video walls and ceiling from OptiTrack’s sister company, Planar, a leading provider of LED display solutions, and ARRI cinema cameras. Additionally, 35North Studios custom built all of its rendering nodes and computer hardware systems. Flexibility and Stability 35North Studios selected an OptiTrack system after evaluating the different types of motion capture technologies including how each one would support their vision for the new virtual production stage, both immediately, and long term. “We wanted our LED ceiling to be a reflective surface at all times, which automatically ruled out inside out camera tracking ,” Fairfax said. “If we had to place a bunch of trackers on the ceiling for positional tracking, then that would mean they would be visible in the reflections. We wanted to avoid that.” Because of their need for more creative latitude, their search eventually landed on optical camera tracking and the OptiTrack system. “For us, it’s all about flexibility and stability,” Fairfax said. “With an OptiTrack system, we are not tied solely to virtual production. For example, if we decide at a later stage to invest in an animated feature that needs motion capture, we can do that.” The flexibility of OptiTrack proved beneficial when 35North Studios wanted to expand its tracking volume. “We decided to also track our side walls to Unreal, which allows us to avoid having to remap everything every time we move one of those mobile walls,” Fairfax said. “That wouldn’t be possible using different tools.” The decision to integrate an OptiTrack system was also based on 35North Studios’ set up to use two ARRI cameras in their virtual volume and to be able to track both at once. OptiTrack provided the ability to track props, which the company can build into an active tracker and send to Unreal in real-time. “It’s such a multipurpose tool,” Fairfax said. According to Fairfax, OptiTrack provides several other advantages—the system is user-friendly, the equipment is dependable, and the software is easy to learn and understand. But what stands out the most is that the technology is virtually unnoticeable. “I haven’t had to worry about it being visible once on set,” Fairfax said. “It’s never a thought in my mind.” For information: OptiTrack Planar Epic Games ARRI Brompton Technology Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Augmented virtual reality ride helps customers be ‘in the moment.’ Virtual Reality Ride Experience Augmented virtual reality ride helps customers be ‘in the moment.’ Terry Persun Theme Parks May 21, 2025 When looking for automation challenges to solve, you don’t always have to look for industrial applications. AllMotion distributor Heitek Automation, located in Arizona, certainly thought outside the box when they helped develop and build a unique Virtual Reality (VR) experience ride for Dave & Busters, the well-known restaurant and entertainment business. Also from EE: How Jurassic World Rebirth Captured the Nostalgia of Film The VR experience was made with design cues from the Jurassic World trilogy and consists of a roller coaster-style carriage that guests sit in while wearing virtual reality googles. The ride’s carriage is supported by various actuators that lift and shift the carriage in multiple axes to provide the user with the sense of immersion during the experience. In the ride experience, the AllMotion DCH403-10 was used to drive several variable speed 24VDC fans that were wired in parallel and directed toward guests. The drive received speed command signals from a central computer that synced the action seen through the googles with the motion and airflow, providing an immersive VR experience. The DCH403-10 combines an AC to DC switching power supply with a regenerative PWM drive, creating an all-in-one solution to applications requiring control of 12 to 48 VDC motors when only 115 or 230 VAC power is available. The true lower output voltage will run your motor cooler and prolong brush life. The DCH403-10 is capable of speed or torque control, as well as cycling and positioning control when used with limit switches or resistive feedback devices. However, the microprocessor allows the drive to be programmed for custom applications or routines to meet OEMs requirements and the built-in isolation keeps PLC interfacing safe and simple. The DCH403-10 is perfect for those needing a wide range of low voltage motor control with quick braking or on-the-fly reversing when only AC line power is available. Contact: Heitek Automation: https://www.heitek.com/ AllMotion: https://www.allmotion.com American Control Electronics: https://www.americancontrolelectronics.com/ Dave & Busters: https://www.daveandbusters.com/us/en/home Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Brewing beer is a precise process that requires reliable motion feedback to ensure that each batch performs exactly as the brew master requires. Brewing Beer with High Precision Components Brewing beer is a precise process that requires reliable motion feedback to ensure that each batch performs exactly as the brew master requires. Edited by EE Staff Cool Stuff May 15, 2026 Community Beer Company in Dallas, TX is known for growing their own yeast in-house and for their top-notch equipment. They claim to have invested in the finest, most sophisticated brewing and packaging equipment made. This also meant that they focused on the best components as well—including encoders. Beer Making Process Part of beer-making involves mashing , where grains move through the mill, into the grist hopper, and are transferred via flex auger to the mash tun. Hot water is added at specific temperatures to convert the starches in the barley into simple sugars. Then there's lautering , which takes place in the lauter tun . It’s in this vessel where precise motion is needed to get the taste of the beer just right. The lautering process is where the liquid solution known as “wort” is separated from the solid grains, forming the foundation for the beer's flavor. The wort is then pumped into the boil kettle where the hops are added, contributing to the bitterness, flavor, and aroma of the finished product. From there, the liquid gets ready for fermentation , the final stage of the brewing process before bottling. Images courtesy of Encoder Products Company. Automating the Process Automating beer-making improves production efficiency and the quality of the beer, particularly during the lautering stage. Inside the lauter tun, a motorized rake gently breaks up the grain bed, allowing for the highest quality wort to be extracted. The grains are sprayed with hot water during this phase to recover all of the remaining sugars. On top of the lauter tun is the motor and gearbox which drive the screw jack, raising and lowering the rake inside as the liquid level changes. Community Beer found it challenging to properly position the rake inside the lauter tun, resulting in poor sweeping of the grains, slowing wort extraction, and inhibiting the entire brewing process. Images courtesy of Encoder Products Company. The team decided that they needed a reliable shaft encoder. Final specifications indicated that the encoder would need a quarter-inch shaft size, positive pulse polarity, and a resolution of 200 CPR. The interconnection would use a 6-pin MS connector. After some research, Community Beer reached out to Encoder Products Company (EPC) to help them better control the motion of the screw jack and rake inside the vessel. Working with EPC, Community Beer selected the company’s Model 716 Accu-Coder® encoder as their solution. The Model 716 is ideally suited for applications requiring a quadrature output. Designed for compatibility with most programmable controllers, electronic counters, motion controllers, and motor drives. The encoder comes in five versatile housing styles, quadrature output, and resolutions available up to 10,000 CPR It was discovered that putting the Model 716 on the gearbox driving the screw jack, was the best way to correctly raise and lower the rake inside the lauter tun, loosening the grains and effectively extracting the wort. With such a precise process, reliable motion feedback is a must to ensure the equipment functions efficiently so that each batch performs exactly as the brew master requires. After installation, Community Beer found that they had eliminating the bottleneck in the lauter tun. For information: Encoder Products Company Model 716 Accu-Coder Community Beer Company Read more about technology and food >>> Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next

Video camera and audio accessory boom poles K-Tek TadpoleX Holds GoPro Video camera and audio accessory boom poles EE Staff (pub. 2013) Cool Stuff Jun 4, 2025 K-Tek makes video camera and audio accessories boom poles and microphone support products. Tadpoles have become the popular solution for holding small HD action cameras. The newest member of the line, the TadpoleX, is made of black anodized aluminum. The unit’s three-section camera pole is engineered with the same precision as K-Tek’s market-leading boom microphone poles. With a fixed ¼-20 threaded stud mount, the TadpoleX is ideal for small cameras such as the GoPro. Plus, weighing just 8 ounces, the camera and accessory pole can extend up to 3 feet, 7 inches, yet collapses to an easily storable length of 19 inches. Designed for efficiency, the TadpoleX is quick and easy to use in an extreme sports environment. The sections securely lock in place with a simple twist. The pole also features a padded handgrip, made of closed-cell vinyl, to help insulate and cushion vibration. In addition, the comfortable-to-wear woven wrist lanyard cord, also adjustable, ensures that the camera attached to the K-Tek TadpoleX is secure. For more information: K-Tek Home Previous Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Next