Specialist Rigs: SkyJib

SkyJib

SkyJib is the next generation in the Polecam remote camera crane system and is the evolution from the industry-proven technology of the IntelliJib remote system. The need to have an unmanned remote camera jib which is lightweight, modular, quick rig system suspended from any stage or studio lighting truss is definitely a new leap forward and brings a host of inventive and creative filming angles typically unseen before.

DESCRIPTION

The SkyJib and IntelliJib systems are designed for unobtrusive, minimal impact, un-manned remote operation in a variety of remote, hard to reach and or dangerous locations.

Applications may include positioning of the IntelliJib behind Football/Soccer goals, enabling Through Net Technology (TNT) providing the broadcasters with a first-person view typically not offered by conventional camera systems. In addition, other ground-based applications may include Athletics, Golf, Music and Arena stages, Studios, Track based sports (inc’ motorsports), and many more.

Whilst the SkyJib provides the unique unseen angles of any typical combat arena to include Boxing, Mixed martial arts and being perfectly placed for Music and Festival stages. Consideration may also be given for use above Snooker/ Pool tables, Gambling/Card tables, shopping channel studios and when floor space is at a premium (such as international car shows and product launches)

The SkyJib and IntelliJib systems provide the ability to independently remotely control the Polecam camera crane and its associated remote camera head; and, in some cases (such as the AJA RovoCam) control the camera zoom, iris and focus from just one Universal Control Surface (UCS). Camera protocol upgrades will be offered subject to demand.

Once set to the required length for operation, and subject to location and configuration, the camera crane can be moved through both Pan and Tilt elevations; whilst the remote camera head can also be simultaneously operated in both Pan and Tilt typically using the Auxiliary joystick. This simultaneous and remote application enables the operator/s to develop, track and close shoot sequences to a high degree of accuracy.

The system is extendable using the modular “click-to-fix” carbon sections and can be set from a Reach of .7m/27.5” to 3.8m/12.45’. Camera payloads and counterweights must be applied correctly and the system must be balanced as noted in the user’s guide

The systems follow the same Polecam ethos, being lightweight, low profile and quick to deploy, relocate and pack away – all from just 2 Pelicase 1770 protective cases with integral protective foam inserts.

Knowing that the systems will be deployed in multi-role applications and may very well be used by different operators over the period of a broadcast, the system has the ability to store settings for up to 8 different operators. This feature means that once each operator has configured the system to their own preferences, eac operator can recall their own settings. This means improved speed and smooth transition between operators, which becomes very advantageous in saving time and retaining the broadcast and director’s production flow and style.

In addition to multi operators, it is also possible for just one operator to control up to 8 independent IntelliJib or SkyJib systems from the OB or MCR using the systems recall features (much like the “operator” Store and Recall function) of the Universal Control Surface.

To setup and store your preferred settings in the Universal Control Surface.

TYPICAL CONFIGURATIONS:

FOOTBALL:

  • (per Goal providing TNT) 1x Boom remote head

  • 1x Backend section (mini)

  • 1x Carbon section (full) – extendable (3.5 sections of carbon max)

  • 1x Camera remote head (narrow)

  • 1x Universal control surface (inc Aux Joystick)

  • 1x Cable set

  • 1x Mini tripod

  • 1x 5kg Counterweight (subject to boom reach and camera fitted)

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES:

  • 1x Polecam SMPTE Fibre system

  • (per TNT Goal) 1x Minicam system – Hi-Speed/4K/HD (to include Remote Control where needed)

  • 1x Atomos 19” SUMO monitor

  • 1x Polecam Autopod (tripod replacement)

BOXING:

  • 1x Boom remote head

  • 1x Backend section with flying counterweight spigot (full)

  • 3x Carbon section (full) – extendable (4 sections of carbon max, requires Wire Strut System)

  • 1x Camera remote head (narrow)

  • 1x Universal control surface (inc Aux Joystick)

  • 1x Cable set

  • 1x Truss fixing system

  • 3x 5kg Counterweight (subject to boom reach and camera fitted)

  • 1x 2kg Flying Counterweight

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES:

  • 1x Polecam SMPTE Fibre system

  • (Boxing) 1x Minicam system – Hi-Speed/4K/HD (to include Remote Control where needed)

  • 1x Atomos 19” SUMO monitor

  • 1x Wire strut system

SkyJib in Action