Technical Polecam

(Virtual Press Office) - Polecam is a unique combination of Aluminium and Specialist Carbon Fibre creating the perfect solution for a modular, super lightweight low profile camera crane - enabling the operator to fly any MiniCam, D-SLR, Camcorder or 3D Mini Mirror rig.

Using de-classified military spec. carbon, with an increased weave density of 1/3 providing additional strength and flexibility are formed using bespoke mandrills for the winding and wrapping of the carbon. The process is completed by a global supplier recognised as the best in the world, although not cheap but using the best in the world brings peace of mind, quality and assurance second to none.

There is a minimal trade off between weave density and weight - however the cross section remains the same and therefore means the super low profile is retained. The enhanced performance from using such product far out weighs the negligible increase in weight.

Products evolve on a daily basis in broadcast, and cameras are just one of many which Polecam have to be very aware of. With the new technologies emerging daily the Minicam market is expanding rapidly, assisting the drive and need for mini 3d rigs; Polecam have developed their own mini mirror rig which supports all the leading minicams manufacturers systems. Whilst development continues not only at the minicam end of the market, but also within the camcorder domain; with such cameras as the Canon C300 & 500, Panasonic AF101, Sony NEX-FS700 and the Blackmagic Cinema Camera - all of which offer their own unique values and bring great productivity and added value to a variety of shoots. These product developments are symbiotic with Polecam's own modular head systems (Long, Wide & Narrow) and when combined with the new Wire Strut System provides a stunning platform for any operator.

With active feedback from many customers - our remote heads are truly "Designed by Cameramen for Cameramen". For those of you who really like anorak speak read on. Two PID motion controllers are used in conjunction with the motor encoders to enable closed loop speed control. This gives the head the ability to provide smooth slow speed shot repositioning even when using lenses with large magnifications. The controller converts the linear joystick input from a standard Polecam joystick controller into an exponential profile. This increases the joystick sensitivity at slow to medium speeds which gives the stick a better “feel”. The controller has a ramping and damping feature, which limits the amount of violent movement that the user can apply. This allows the head to accelerate and decelerate smoothly at speed while reducing violent movements. Motor braking is enabled whenever the head is at rest. This feature holds the head stationary without driving the motors, which saves battery power. Other features include motor current limiting and the ability to change the ramping and damping or the joystick profile for different applications.

The Polecam all Aluminium "backend" is very well engineered and also a very convenient solution providing, adjustable space saving counter balance mounting system - enabling standard barbell weights to be utilised or, for those restricted by location access, a Polecam rubble sack is available which can be filled with appropriate rocks or ballast to provide the required balance. The Aluminium backend also provides mounting plates for industry standard V-Lock batteries (a dual redundancy system ensures that power is always available through a simple switching system for powering the remote heads, cameras, video monitors and recorders. Additionally there is space provided for third party products such as Recorder Systems, Camera CCU's, Cable Looms and Polecams own 3D interface unit.

The new 3D interface unit is backward compatible with all existing Polecam systems, therefore the host of new and improved features are available to one and all. Regulated power and adjustable DC output is available up to 2amps with its own lcd voltage display, power can also be taken from the 2USB sockets (always handy for charging smart phones, personal sat navs or mini operator lights). Although HD-SDI is the typically industry standard, the new interface is multi format enabling HD and SD switching, video feed switching between Left and Right (ideal for 3D setups). All supported by reverse and over voltage protection the new Interface unit is a real asset to the Polecam system. The backend is mounted on a two piece clamp system with PTFE (Teflon) bearings. This allows smooth re-balancing without the need for lubrication. Teflon is the ONLY man made material that flies cannot walk on!

The exceptional reach of the Polecam system is not restricted to just a straight jib application - Polecam uniquely have developed their own "elbow" which enables a 45deg to be introduced anywhere along the crane; the benefit of the elbow means that long reach in restricted height areas can be achieved - limited access ability in such places as medical operating is a classic use of the elbow.

We all know the old adage of "time is money" and this is just another of the key aspects that Polecam is based on and where it spawned from as a very cost effective and time saving solution. Operated by just one man and with no need for any tools - it is the ultimate in location cranes for any production and proves itself daily worldwide covering cliff diving tours, snow mobile challenges, motorsports, Albert Hall concerts, music festivals, weddings, churches to name just a few. Portability is key to the success of the Polecam and when mounted on a tripod and dolly offers very rapid rig , relocation and de-rig capability within 10mins, additionally the super lightweight system can be harness mounted enabling crane use in areas where a tripod is not allowed or not practical such as an F1 pitlane.