Robotic Camera

Equipping Broadcast Studios with Cost-Effective Technology Solutions

Robotic camera stands and tracking systems are designed for productions that require consistent and smooth shots or movements to be replicated with precision. These systems offer superior visual results compared to traditional manual tripods and rails, known for their stability and accurate timing.

My Role and Contribution

The project involved collaboration between designers and electrical engineers, with my role encompassing research and hardware prototyping. I utilized a range of tools including Arduino, DC motors, servo motors, H-Bridge, and Arduino IDE, alongside software like Photoshop and After Effects. The project was carried out in 2016.

Opportunity

Modern robotic camera stands offer a visually distinctive look that enhances production quality, providing stunning and compelling visuals. However, the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation, the largest broadcasting institute in Ethiopia, lacks access to high-end robotic camera systems due to cost constraints. This limitation impacts their production capabilities, as these advanced technologies are crucial for their work.

By developing a cost-effective, locally produced robotic camera system, we can significantly benefit the studio. This approach would reduce the burden of foreign currency expenditures, allowing the organization to allocate funds to other critical equipment.

The goal of this project is to create a proof of concept for designing and building customized robotic camera stands and rails using affordable microcontrollers and electrical components.

Process

CodeCatalyst is a cloud-based collaboration space for software development teams. It provides one place where users can plan work, collaborate on code, and build, test, and deploy applications with continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD) tools. The log management feature records the event history of account activities. It provides administrators visibility into how resources are being utilized, altered, and modified inside organizations and projects.

Introduction

In this project, I focused on implementing a track-based robotic camera system, which is integral to achieving smooth and controlled camera movements in professional broadcasting. Such systems can include various features like track-based mechanisms and free-roaming pedestals, or even standalone pan/tilt heads. The goal was to design and build a cost-effective solution for the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation, leveraging locally available components and technologies.

Robotic PAN-TILT Head

The core component of the robotic camera system is the pan/tilt head, which directly supports and positions the camera while integrating with zoom and focus controls. This head manages the payload, including the camera and lens, ensuring smooth transitions between positions and precise returns to the original spot. The performance of the system hinges on the head’s speed, payload capacity, and size, which must be tailored to the specific application requirements.

Robotic DOLLY & TRACK Head

The core component of the robotic camera system is the pan/tilt head, which directly supports and positions the camera while integrating with zoom and focus controls. This head manages the payload, including the camera and lens, ensuring smooth transitions between positions and precise returns to the original spot. The performance of the system hinges on the head’s speed, payload capacity, and size, which must be tailored to the specific application requirements.

Hardware Prototype

Track-Based DC Motor Powered Dolly System Using H-Bridge

A DC motor is used to convert direct current into mechanical energy, typically producing rotary motion. For linear motion, a specific linear motor design is required. The H-Bridge direction alternator, such as the L293 and L293D, allows for bidirectional drive currents, essential for controlling the direction of the DC motor and driving other high-current loads.

Arduino Uno Microcontroller

The Arduino Uno, based on the ATmega328P, is central to the control system. It features 14 digital I/O pins, 6 analog inputs, and a 16 MHz quartz crystal, providing the necessary functionality to support the microcontroller in managing the camera system.

Servo Motor

The pan-tilt kit, equipped with two micro servos, provides full-range motion. It allows for approximately 180° of side-to-side rotation and 150° of up-and-down tilt, offering precise control for mounting cameras or sensors. This setup is fully assembled, including the SG90 Micro Servos and a 38mm x 36mm mounting space for various attachments.