Microdrive Mechanism Rotates Camera for 360 degrees
Modern electronic cameras open the door for new photographic possibilities in situ and for post-imaging processing.By combining the high resolution and rapid shot frequency that can be achieved with a “rotating turntable,” so called panorama shots can be compiled. Enabling this feat is optimal camera lens focusing over the swivel range.
Over time, classical photography has undergone a huge change. Electronic systems have superseded the process of recording images chemically. Yet even modern photography is subject to the laws of physics and visual appearance. The extensive equipment that was once necessary has been whittled down to better lenses, digital zoom technology, and compact image storage. Despite this, the camera still has to be positioned so that it doesn’t shake, which is especially important when taking roundshots.
Seitz Phototechnik AG, based in Lustdorf, Switzerland, offers a solution for these types of shot sequences. With the help of Roundshot VR Drive, cameras can be equipped for “panoramic view.”
PANORAMA PRECISION
Even in the age of digital image processing the old truth still applies: whatever has been “captured” correctly when taking the shot will not then have to be laboriously corrected later. Especially when creating a composition from several individual images, having individual shots that match up exactly makes it easier to stitch them into a seamless view. In turn, a high shot frequency together with exact blending of the individual angles of vision lets moving objects such as clouds or vehicles seem to freeze.
The VR Drive automatically rotates the camera smoothly, avoiding jerky movements, and takes pictures on request. With up to 999 stops per 360° of rotation, panoramic views are generated. The panorama head provides photographers with technology for a wide range of applications. The Roundshot VR Drive “s” speed achieves a full 360° rotation in four seconds. Depending on the camera, up to five pictures per second can be taken in quick sequence in automatic mode. In the process, precision and smooth motor rotation allow a higher resolution than would be possible with manual panoramic heads.
The quick rotation speed, combined with the high individual shot frequency also solves the problem of “ghost” images that occur with moving objects such as people or clouds. Even cylindrical or spherical panoramic shots are quickly taken. The shot scenario requires a higher dynamic range the VR Drive activates its quality mode, thus positioning the camera for automatic bracketing. Within this context, the object is photographed several times in order to obtain a higher dynamic range. The more precisely the camera is used, the simpler the subsequent image processing becomes.
COMPACT DRIVE TECHNOLOGY
The ideal actuator must deliver high performance while taking up the least space possible. Since considerable freedom of movement is necessary for the best visual motif, the drive mechanism requires a level. An exact correlation between the control command parameter and actual movement of the drive signal results. All movements must always be executed dynamically in the same way, regardless of the standard DC motor with diametercompliant gearhead and encoder attachments came out on top as the drive mechanism of choice given all the stipulated characteristics.
Depending on the model, the 22-mm diameter drive mechanism supplies between 2 and 11 watts and achieves a turning moment of 2.5 to 10 mNm at the output shaft. The voltage variants lie between, which can optionally be equipped with sintered sleeve bearings or, for continuous operation, with ball bearings or prestressed ball bearings.
Reductions in a ratio of 3.71 to 23.014: 1 are possible in plastic or metal gearhead. An optical encoder mounted to the motor shaft delivers 100, 500, 1,000 or 1,024 rectangular pulses per rotation. In this way, not only tilt angles but also full circles can be completed in a targeted and shot with the requisite angular alignment. The comprehensive package, consisting of motor, gearhead, and encoder, is low maintenance and can be operated in a temperature range of between 40 to +100 °C. Thus, the only limiting factor when it comes to taking photographs of winter scenes on the one hand or desert images on the other is the battery supply.
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Posted by Bruce at 22 Feb 2012 
Categories: Entertainment Engineering
Tags: Microdrives Camera 360 degrees post-imaging Seitz Phototechnik AG Roundshot VR Drive panoramic view
Categories: Entertainment Engineering
Tags: Microdrives Camera 360 degrees post-imaging Seitz Phototechnik AG Roundshot VR Drive panoramic view
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