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Slingco Launches Vortek in Europe at ABTT
Vortek is the culmination of years of innovation and design. The hub of every Vortek system is a unique, patented brake, specifically designed for theatre applications. This continuously applied, variable-load, back-up brake totally eliminates over-speed brake and "shock-load" type problems.
The brake is connected to the drum, and operates independently of any electrical or drive-train system. In the event of all other elements in the drive-train system failing (including the gear-box), with the Vortek back-up brake; everything stops within 3mm! The mechanical Vortek back-up brake also remains fully functional in the event of a power failure.
Vortek also features over-load and under-load protection. This protects the batten in the up direction, and prevents it from picking up tangled curtains, or other additional unwanted loads. Under-load protects the batten in the down direction, preventing the batten from becoming tangled in other rigging or driving scenery into the stage floor. If either condition is sensed, the system immediately e-stops. The adjustable device allows the batten to be fine tuned to sense an over-load or under-load condition as little as 2kg. The Vortek Under-load/Overload battens significantly enhance system’s safety for users at all experience levels.
Design innovation continues with the VAC (Vortek Automated Controls) centre at the core of the Vortek installation. Intuitive Touch Screen control and Menuing make the system simple to administer and use, with three levels of password access.
There are variable speeds, with soft starts and soft stops. Multiple battens will move to within 0.5mm in precise synchronisation - with a touch of the VAC screen. Automated cueing flies in props, raises and lowers flats and drops and adjusts lighting pipes simultaneously – all with a touch of the VAC screen.
A wireless Remote option allows the system to be operated from various locations around the venue, and a pendant option is also available.
The Vortek VAC can operate multiple battens together, and can control up to 250 Vortek units as a rigging system. With a desktop 32 inches above the ground, the VAC workstation can be operated from a seated position – enabling wheelchair users to use VAC easily and comfortably.
Using Vortek, work that used to take four-to-six weeks can now be completed in days.
For a closer look, see Vortek on Slingco’s stand 94 at ABTT 2005.
31st May 2005
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