Shock Boxx – Shock System for Lighting Truss

Kai Knox Technologies and Scott Almand Designs today announced the launch of Shock Boxx, the first-ever pre-rig lighting truss shock system. This breakthrough product protects expensive truss-mounted lighting and video equipment as it’s transported around the world, finally providing a solution to a common and costly challenge for the touring market.

This revolutionary, “patent pending” technology is the result of a collaboration between Heather Roberts of Kai Knox Technologies and Scott Almand of Scott Almand Designs. Their combined 30 years experience in the entertainment industry and their passion for meeting client needs with innovative solutions inspired them to design Shock Boxx.

A Shock Boxx unit is comprised of a box-shaped carriage system, a shock system, and locator bars. First, the carriage system is positioned snuggly inside the pre-rigged truss. Then the shocks are installed on the sides of the truss. Finally, the locator bars are positioned in the desired location of the lighting fixtures. Integrating Shock Box into existing truss inventory is fast and convenient—the easy-to-assemble retrofit kit can be installed in less than ten minutes.

Available in multiple configurations and sizes, Shock Boxx is compatible with any standard pre-rig truss (26 in. x 30 in.) or HUD/GT truss (14 in. x 24 in.) system. Shock Boxx begins shipping on July 1st and pre-orders are being accepted now. For more information, visit www.shock-boxx.com.

Squint Abroad – Load In

Loading in any event can be stressful.  Even when you are not dealing with language barriers, unfamiliar electrical standards, and different gear, the ballet of people and gear is a delicate balance between executing “the plan” and adapting to challenges.  In a foreign country this process has the potential to be a disaster.  Luckily, my experience abroad has been nothing but positive.  This week we are in Istanbul, Turkey building, running, and then tearing out a corporate event.  Although our client will only spend around seven hours in the general session space, countless hours have been spent planning, designing, building, teching, and rehearsing every little detail.

Let’s talk about the load in experience.  I’ll paint you a picture of what exactly we are working with

• A ball room space (width) by (length) with a (height) ceiling.
• An octagonal 8 screen projection setup, with a “T” shaped stage at the front
• Lighting and seven speaker surround audio support

Fortunately for us the in house A/V is a production house similar in capability and gear to our own company.  While we have traveled with our entire video rig, including switching and projection, the audio and lighting gear came from the house.  They were able to provide familiar Vari Lite 3000 fixtures, ETC Source 4’s.  Our audio team was happy to have the same Yamaha console we use back in the states, as well as a pair of Labgruppen line array cabinets.  Eight powered speakers hide behind each screen for full surround audio support.  Perhaps most importantly they were able to provide the proper truss (Prolyte folding triangle) and motor package.  This show relies on the 18 foot tall video walls in an octagonal shape, and being able to fly the rig instead of ground supporting is a huge advantage.

 

Working with the in house team was a breeze.  They know their gear well, and could easily take our CAD drawings and implement without a problem.  While we had issues with language barriers enough of their crew spoke English well enough to keep both of our production teams on the same page. Needless to say, it was a great opportunity, and we are all really excited for the next chance to work overseas!

 

Review: Scenex Lighting Ignition LED Base 4 Truss Toner

Scenex Lighting would like to introduce the Ignition LED Base 4.  The Base 4 is a strong contender for the ultimate truss up lighter.  Designed to fit exactly inside a 12 x 12 inch stick of box truss, the Base 4 features a square array of LED’s.  This places the 10 degree RGB LED’s in an optimal alignment to punch all the way to the top of a 10ft stick of truss with maximum color.

The demo unit we were given features 3-pin DMX in and out, an LED menu, and Neutrik PowerCon input and output. The brushed aluminum casing is solid and light weight.  The default configuration has wings on the sides to lock the Base 4 in place when used with “Chinese Style” truss.  There are other configurations available if you use Thomas/Tomcat style truss.  The PowerCon power input and output are nice to see.  This allows you to daisy chain multiple Base 4’s (or other LED units) together using a common cable type.  The Neutrik PowerCon is becoming the defacto choice among LED manufacturer’s and moving lights alike.  The only thing of slight concern is I was unable to locate an external fuse.  This is still a “Beta” unit, so hopefully we’ll see that added to the final production unit.

The menu is easy to navigate.  It features a Blue LED display and three navigation buttons beneath.  Even without consulting the manual, it was easy to select from the built in programs and set up a basic look.  You have control options for static colors, or color chasing/fading.  The unit is easy to address for DMX and features several profile modes that allow for standard RGB options or a split color mode that will allow you to tone the truss in two colors at once. It should be noted also that the Base 4’s production model will feature 5-Pin DMX as opposed to the 3-Pin DMX that our demo unit has.

That brings us to the LED array.  The Base 4 features 12 3w RGB homogenized LED emitters with 1w per color, per emitter. The LED’s are arrayed in a square around the outside of the fixture instead of a circle or hexagon as common in LED fixtures.  This places the LED’s in an optimal position to light the structure and cross members in the truss.  The 10 degree beam of the LED’s also gives the Base 4 an excellent throw distance.  It covered evenly all the way to the top of a 10ft stick of truss and would probably go to 15 to 20ft given the chance.  The field coming off the LED’s is just large enough that if you are using 18 or 20 in truss, it would most likely tone these as well.  Though you would want to add a unit facing the opposite direction at the other end of the truss to cover both ends.

In conclusion, the Base 4 LED truss toner provides lighting designers an excellent option for getting that perfect truss color. Given its design and lack of a rigging point, this is not a multitasker, but that’s not a bad thing.  You aren’t going to ask a PAR can to become a Leko, are you? Despite some minor flaws, the Base 4 is a very good truss toner/warmer and I would spec it without hesitation.  The colour rendering is excellent and not only does the Base 4 do what its designed for.  It does it well. So the question becomes, are you ready to start your “Ignition”?

Learn more about the Scenex Lighting Ignition LED Base 4 by visiting www.germanlightproducts.com.

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Squint Abroad: Language Barriers

We understand from a basic study of history that cultural and language barriers have been points of contention and difficulty for thousands of years.  Construction of the tower of Babel was halted when the masons were no longer able to communicate in the same tongue.  It’s safe to say that in the event production industry, we have moved beyond language and use our common bonds as professionals to get a show up and running. We all abide by certain natural rules and regulations, and intuitively understand the same restrictions people and gear have.

A mere week ago, in Bangkok, Thailand, we were tasked with erecting eight truss structure with a crew of 20 local technicians.  There was one individual on their team able to speak fluent English, yet we were able to build and raise all of the structures and move them into place with minimal verbal communication.  Hand signals and normally meaningless guttural sounds took on the meanings “left, right, forward, back, go, or STOP!!!”.  After a few hours, all eight structures were in place, and no one was injured in the process.

Truth be told, we had enough to deal with during the early stages of load in that the language barrier was never seen as a significant issue.  The event was being held in a third floor hotel ballroom, in a building without a significant freight elevator.  That meant 400+ feet of truss, baseplates, and outriggers were hand carried up stairs.  Keep in mind, it’s more than 90 degrees during the day in Thailand this time of year.  Needless to say, it was a challenge.

Everyone in our industry knows the difficulties that pop up on a show site, especially when project principals disagree on a given process or outcome of a decision during a load in.  While somewhat rare, work stoppage wastes time and money.  I’m sure that if either party in Thailand, our production team or the local gear house, had a reason to raise concerns over safety or process, flags would have been thrown.  The language barrier created the opportunity to avoid any nit-picking and allowed us to get the job done in an incredibly short amount of time.

Milos Debuts x.Truss & T12 Modular System at Euroshop 2011

Milos Concepts will be in attendance at EuroShop 2011 in Düsseldorf Feburary 26th to March 2nd.  They will be debuting two new products, the x.Truss and the T12 Modular System. Düsseldorf.  x.Truss, the intelligent line of accessories compatible with QuickTruss systems, allows simple mounting of diverse materials – visibly or invisibly, horizontally or vertically, sustainably and effectively. Brackets, clamps, fabric profiles, and panel clips offer clever, simple solutions to increase QuickTruss’ versatility and aesthetic appeal. Image features curved cladding panels and fabric profiles from x.Truss accessories line.

T12 is a new modular system that blurs the line between light source and structural element. LED lights are integrated into the structural tube profiles to create backlit displays, luminescent counters or spaces contoured with light. Standard components include curved profiles to add flourish to any space.

To learn more about x.Truss or the T12 Modular System, visit Milos website at www.milosgroup.com.

TOMCAT’s New QU & Curtains Track Truss

TOMCAT displayed new products at its booth at LDI: QU Truss Series, as well as its new Curtain Track Truss. The QU Truss Series products stand out for its simple tool free connection, fast assembly and disassembly, and multiple configurations. The products were designed for specific applications including exhibits, audiovisual equipment support, ballroom/conference environments and soft goods support.

The QU Truss Series includes 2 news products: The QU-212 Batten Ladder has a 20 ft span UDL capacity of 1000 lbs., 4’’ wide top chord for stability, and requires minimal truck/storage space with the availability of storage carts. The QU-312 Triangle Truss with 840 lbs. UDL over a 30’ span, and 400 lbs UDL over a 40ft span also has the availability of storage carts.

TOMCAT’s new Curtain Track Truss has the following features: An integrated track which accepts readily available carriers, includes self aligning connection plates, and its 2’’ members accept commonly used mounting hardware. It also offers a single and double track configuration with a 30ft. span UDL capacity of 1000 lbs., is available curved or straight, and is perfect for walking curtains/screens.

Rumor Mill: Tyler Truss to Announce New Truck Pack Friendly Truss at LDI With SPY PHOTO

Just when you thought that there couldn’t be any new developments in truss design, Tyler Truss says think again.  While Tyler Truss is hush hush about this one, a little birdie snapped a photo of a their new stackable truss design.

Looks like the design is about 20″ x 16″ with a center cord for even hanging of the truss.  This is totally a Tyler Truss design with the center cord.  No more having to even out the span set bridle every time you change the load to level the truss. Pretty innovative when you think about it.  Super simple solution to a long time “issue” when dealing with truss.

Since LDI is right around the corner, I guess we’ll have to wait till then to hear more. Maybe Tyler Truss will say more before then on their up coming blog.  Stay tuned, information should hit the street soon.

Xtreme Structures Introduces iTruss iPhone App

Xtreme Structures just announced the release of their latest “product”, the iTruss iPhone App. I have to say, I am quite disappointed in this app right off the get go. It was a $4.99 app through the iTunes app store. Of course I bought it, I wanted to check it out for you.

Let me start with I have never heard of Xtreme Structures or their line of truss. Not a huge deal breaker, but none the less, an unknown one to me. After reading the description of the app in iTunes, I expected it to be similar to the iRigging app from JR Clancy. Meaning that a professional company put together a calculator form general specifications and would be universal measurements across all types of truss.

Do not, I repeat, do not make the same mistake I did with iTruss. The iPhone app is at best a “catalog” for Xtreme Structures trussing product line. Yes, it does offer the ability to do some calculations to find the best truss from Xtreme Structures, but there is no cross reference guide or anything for other truss manufacturers. I would not be so upset about Xtreme Structures leaving the other manufactures out of the app is the app was free or even .99. But come on 4.99 for the app that only deals with just their product line?

All that being said, I think the app is very nicely laid out and applaud Xtreme Structures work on the app, it looks and functions very nicely. I have hopes of Xtreme Structures updating the app with new features and other manufacturers, but time will tell.

You can download the iTruss iPhone app from the iTunes app store, but again, it is a $4.99 download. You can learn more about the iTruss App by visiting the apps web site at www.itrussapp.com.

Optikinetics Announces New OPTI V-Truss

Optikinetics out of Ashland Virginia recently announced a new series of light weight truss, the OPTI V-Tuss.  The V-Truss is designed for trade shows, corporate road shows, any one looking for a light weight and portable trussing system.  What stands out about the V-Tuss is it’s ability to stack together cutting down on freight and storage charges due to the compact design.

Even with the compact and stackable design, strength in the truss has not been sacrificed.  The OPTI V-Truss is capable of handling large graphics, accent and spot lights and even flat-screen monitors.

The OPTI V-Truss is available in 1″ and 2″ tubes to fit your specific needs and is also available in all the standard truss lengths, corner and T blocks to build the perfect truss system for your needs.  Custom design and configurations are available with Optikinetics experienced engineers and designers.

For more information on the OPTI V-Truss, visit Optikinetics web site at www.opti-kinetics.com.

Tomcat Global Introduces Edge Truss

Tomcat Global recently announced a new series of truss to their Swing Wing line up of trussing products called the Edge. The Edge truss is 30″ x 23″ which allows for stacking the truss four wide in a standard truck rather then 3 wide.  the Edge also has rotating spigots thus eliminating the need for corner blocks and one less piece of truss to remember to load into the truck.

With removable ladders, if something happens and a piece of the Edge Truss gets damaged, it is easily replaced with another section of ladder trussing.  This will help cut down truck loads with out the need for carrying extra truss section if a piece gets damaged and unsafe to rig. Additionally, an adjustable internal diagonal slider assembly adjust creating space for larger lighting fixture or for extra lighting positions on the truss.

The Edge Truss utilizes space and offers the ultimate cost savings in almost every aspect of touring, with reducing truck space, shipping weight, reduced hardware, storage and replacement parts. A 96″ stick of the Edge Truss weights just 195 lbs. and can span up to 40′ with a load of 3700 lbs. Standard lengths are: 96″ (3 bay, fits 3 moving heads) & 120” ( 4 bay, fits 4 moving heads). Each stick of the Edge Truss is Equipped with 3 Lamp bars and stacking spigots.

For more information on the Edge Truss from Tomcat Global, visit their US website at www.tomcatglobal.com. If you are attending the LDI Show this year in Orlando, Fl, look for the Edge Truss at the Tomcat booth, 1027.

Update: TomCat Introduces Core Truss

Back during SETC in Birmingham, AL, TomCat showed off their latest line of trussing called CORE.  Just recently, TomCat officially announced the new truss along with prices and available sizes.  TomCat has essentially taken the conventional 12″ x 12″ light duty truss and modified the components to provide a more efficient truss at a more efficient price.

The latest additions to the CORE line up are the CORE18 (12″ x 18″) and CORE12 (12″ x 12″). The new CORE18 is 5lbs. lighter and 25% stronger than conventional light duty 12″ x 18″ truss.  The new CORE18 comes in at 63lbs. per 10′ section with the ability to sustain 1,000lbs total UDL over a 40′ span.  This is an additional 200lbs. capacity over the conventional light duty truss.

There are plans to add 20.5″ x 20.5″ box tuss to the CORE line up in the near future with accessories to complete the CORE line up. All of the CORE lineup of trussing is expected to be available mid summer 2009.

For more information on the TomCat CORE trussing, visit TomCat’s website at www.tomcatglobal.com.  For pricing on the CORE trussing, contact your local TomCat Rep.