57
7. Motion Control
StackShot 3X is capable of several different motion control methods. They provide completely
fluid motion on all three axes in either real-time or time lapse operation. There are four motion
control modes that will be discussed in this section:
1. Video: Continuous. The motors are continually in motion. Ideal for video
applications. The shutter output is activated at the beginning of the move and at
the end. Because the motors are continuously consuming current this mode is not
recommended for long durations.
2. Timelapse: Continuous. The motors are continually in motion. Ideal for short or
fast time lapse movies. The shutter is activated at a fixed interval while the motors
are in motion. Not for use with long exposures unless you want motion blur.
Because the motors are continuously consuming current this mode is not
recommended for long durations.
3. Timelapse: Shoot-Move-Shoot. The motors are moved in discrete steps
periodically. This mode is geared toward long duration time lapse (hours and days).
4. DragonFrame DfMoco. StackShot 3X is tethered to a computer using DZED Systems
“Dragon Frame” software. This provides maximum flexibility and control of all three
axes. Extremely complex motion profiles can be programmed for shoot-move-shoot
time lapse.
All of these modes define the motion profile by using Bézier curves. Using these curves allows
for fluid motion, easy adjustments of parameters, and a visual representation of the path the
motion will follow. If you’re not familiar with Bézier curves, that’s okay! There is a “Helper”
button that will ask you a few questions and generate them for you. This “Helper”
accommodates most shooting requirements. If the helper can’t do exactly what you need there
is also advanced editing of key frames.
We go through a real-world example in section “10.3 – Motion – Shoot-Move-Shoot“.
CAUTION: Motion control can be dangerous to all of your camera equipment. Care should be
taken to prevent damage to your gear. 360 degrees of rotation might sound like a great idea
until you pick the wrong axis and grind your $3,000 lens right into the tripod. The torque
provided by the rotary tables is sufficient to cause significant camera equipment damage.
Additionally, using a slider can cause a large shift in weight. Motion control can yield incredible
results but it always has to be approached with a healthy dose of paranoia. You can stop the
axes from moving by pressing the display or removing power. Here comes the legal disclaimer:
Cognisys, Inc. is not responsible for damage to your equipment.
To Next Page
Loading...