Entertainment

Lights, Camera, Control!

Concept Systems understands the unique requirements of automated systems in the entertainment industry. Operating quietly in remote locations and being mobile, adaptable, and — of course — safe are all critical. Concept Systems fuses these expectations into prime-time motion control support for projects such as The Ten Commandments Broadway musical and the major motion picture, Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World.

The Oscar-winning film Master and Commander can thank part of its success on Concept Systems. One week before filming started, all was not ship-shape with the 60-ton, 179-foot replica ship’s motion controls. Concept Systems was called in and got the ship moving safely and with smooth, lifelike actions within just a few days. Using hydraulic cylinders/valves, a Delta RMC motion controller, a user-friendly PC-based operator interface, and custom-designed software, Concept Systems got Master and Commander afloat.

The lead Concept Systems engineer on the project carefully studied a ship’s natural movements and built motion profiles to match. The resulting program simulated both rough and calm seas in the film. Concept Systems’ contribution on the Master and Commander set was met with waves and waves of appreciation.