Abstract: A stage lighting lamp unit includes a processor for receiving control data from a remote console. Beam orientation data for the lamp unit is passed to the lamp in the form of the x, y and z co-ordinates of a point in space through which the beam is to pass. The processor divides the required lamp travel into a number of stages dependent on execution duration data sent with the position data, and calculates, for each stage, a new value for pan and tilt angles for the lamp. These values are passed to pan and tilt controlling co-processors which control servo-motors for pan and tilt operation. The lamp unit also incorporates a rotatable shutter for interrupting the lamp beam when required. The shutters of all the lamps in a system can be instructed from the remote console to open and close in synchronism, thereby providing a stroboscopic effect.

Abstract: Inventory control and monitoring system uses an RFID reader to read tags on multiple lights passing through a portal. A light turns green after all the tags have been read. Information from those tags is added to an inventory database, which keeps track of which lights, and how many of each kind of light, is in stock. Locations of the lights can also be added to the inventory system.

Abstract: A rainbow wheel that colors light that is passed therethrough. The wheel can be formed using a photolithographic process. Another supermagenta wheel can be used to increase the number of colors that can be obtained.

Abstract: An illumination obscurement device for controlling the obscurement of illumination from a light source which is optimized for use with a rectangular, arrayed, selective reflection device. In a preferred embodiment, a rotatable shutter with three positions is placed between a light source and a DMD. The first position of the shutter is a mask, preferably an out of focus circle. This out of focus circle creates a circular mask and changes any unwanted dim reflection to a circular shape. The second position of the shutter is completely open, allowing substantially all the light to pass. The third position of the shutter is completely closed, blocking substantially all the light from passing. By controlling the penumbra illumination surrounding the desired illumination, DMDs can be used in illumination devices without creating undesirable rectangular penumbras.

Abstract: Wireless network used to control multiple lights, includes multiple different networks for different purposes, and interference prevention mechanisms.

Abstract: Three-digital micromirror devices (“DMD”) are used to alter the shape of light that is projected onto a stage. The DMDs each receive a primary color and selectively reflects some light of that color, thereby shaping the light that is projected onto the stage. The control for the alteration is controlled by an image. That image can be processed, thereby carrying out image processing effects on the shape of the light that is displayed. One preferred application follow the shape of the performer and illuminates the performer using a shape that adaptively follows the performer's image. This results in a shadowless follow spot.

Abstract: A digital light used with stage items. The digital light can form a portion of a stage performers costume, by for example illuminating a logo of the or a shape or color onto that costume. The digital light can also form effects when used in conjunction with phosphor paint. Another aspect includes using the digital light to signal the performer.

Abstract: A gobo holder with two gobos that are rotatable one relative to the other. The gobos are located with their patterned surfaces facing one another and very close to one another so that both can be in focus at the same time.

Abstract: A luminaire that has multiple removable handles thereon, and can operate in multiple different modes, including a mode where a manual follow spot can occur. To operate in the manual follow spot mode, the luminaire is placed into a free moving mode in which it can be moved, and then the luminaire is moved using the removable handles to manually place the luminaire in a desired location. Then, the luminaire is commanded to remain in that desired location by turning on breaks or the like. In the manual movement mode, movement of the luminaire is manually controlled and not remotely controlled and all of at least color, gobo, beam size and other parameters are remotely controlled.

Abstract: A truss hinge that includes a number of different labeled parts, where connections between the two different parts can constrain the truss to different angles.

Abstract: A stage lighting lamp unit includes a processor for receiving control data from a remote console. Beam orientation data for the lamp unit is passed to the lamp in the form of the x, y and z co-ordinates of a point in space through which the beam is to pass. The processor divides the required lamp travel into a number of stages dependent on execution duration data sent with the position data, and calculates, for each stage, a new value for pan and tilt angles for the lamp. These values are passed to pan and tilt controlling co-processors which control servo-motors for pan and tilt operation. The lamp unit also incorporates a rotatable shutter for interrupting the lamp beam when required. The shutters of all the lamps in a system can be instructed from the remote console to open and close in synchronism, thereby providing a stroboscopic effect.

Abstract: A track dog with removable parts. Embodiments describe one or more of the following features. In one embodiment, the size of the receiver for the knife shaped piece can be variable. Another embodiment describes an improved technique of holding the cable that is run under the floor. Yet another embodiment describes a device where the cable attachment mechanism are set in a location that line up with the openings in the floor to allow tightening without opening the floor. Another aspect describes a special through hole so that cable can be run through the device, e.g., to connect to another track dog.

Abstract: A winch driven by a rotatable cassette. The cassette can be rotated into multiple different positions. Each of the addition positions produces a different speed up the output for a cable.

Abstract: A zero fleet winch that has a hollow drum and a motor and gear assembly mounted inside the drum. A roller assembly moves with the rotation to keep constant the angle where the cable goes on and off the drum.

Abstract: A sound adapting luminaire produces an amount of cooling output that depends on the ambient sound. When the ambient sound is high, the lamp is cooled more aggressively, since more fan noise is acceptable.

Abstract: A lighting system operating using a digital mirror as its operative device. The digital mirror is used to shape the light which is a passed through advanced optical devices in order to produce an output.

Abstract: Wireless network used to control multiple lights, includes multiple different networks for different purposes, and interference prevention mechanisms.

Abstract: A controlling console for moving elements such as trusses and winches. A console body has a display screen, and a processor which is programmed to produce an output screen on the display screen which accepts controls for controlling at least one movable device. The output screen includes a plurality of different logical blocks which are connected together. Values and conditions such as true, false, rising edge or error can be entered. The console arranges this into a flow arrangement.

Abstract: A system for designing light and sound systems for use in stage productions. Virtual reality interfaces facilitate the selection and location of lighting and sound displays by providing a real-time simulation of the devices and the display produced thereby. The system also calculates parameters with respect to structural elements used for mounting the lighting and sound equipment. In addition, the virtual reality interface permits the simulation of the packing of the lighting and sound equipment and the automatic calculation of parameters relating to packing space, package weight, preferred location, and order of packing.

Abstract: A moving light tester includes plural sensors, each of which can test a function of the moving light. A conveyor can move the light between the sensors. Once tested, information about the test is used to characterize the light, to determine if it needs repair, or can be re rented. The information can also be used to create inventory lists, and bills for damage. The testing can include automated testing for gobos, colors, noise, heating and movement, or other tests.