Fujinon has introduced a new HD motor drive lens, synchronisation unit, and wireless controller, designed for 3D and robotics use, writes David Fox.
The XA4x7.5BMD-D3R/L motor drive 3D HD zoom lenses come in right and left lens versions and have 16-bit encoders. They are intended for 3D and robotics applications with Fujinon’s new 3D synchronisation controller unit, or can be used with third party controls. It has a reasonably fast F2.8 maximum aperture over its 7.5mm to 30mm focal length, and is designed for use with 2/3-inch sensor cameras. It has a Minimum Object Distance of 450mm from the front of the lens. Weight without lens hood is only 450g.
“These are new design full performance HD lenses. For the size/weight these are unique to Fujinon,” said Paul Goodwin, divisional head broadcast & CCTV products division, Pyser-SGI (Fujinon’s distributor for the UK and Ireland). The lenses feature “high precision optical systems supplied in matched lens pairs for correct 3D image rendition.” The compact size and weight makes them useful for 3D rigs in tight spaces, on jibs or for hand-held/Steadicam use.
They have precision servos with anti-backlash systems, which offer “high precision synchronous control over lens pairs using just one set of pan bar controls or RS232C serial (robotic) control, both of which are via the Fujinon 3D Synchronisation Unit HJ-303A-08A. Thus when zooming/focusing both lenses move in precisely the same way to the same optical positions. 16-bit encoder outputs are provided from the synchronisation unit for feedback to 3D positioning control and tracking systems,” he explained.
“The use of this system makes rigging for 3D much simpler, reducing set-up time and costs. The lens control system is easy to set-up, essentially plug-and-use, with no adjustments required (apart from back focus). Therefore no lens tracking checks need be made specifically for control software to ensure correct stereoscopy at different lens focal lengths and focus positions. For 3D work the usual alignments for camera/lens positions are still needed at the initial rig.”
The 3D lenses can be remote controlled using Fujinon’s WL-325A wireless controller, which will work up to a distance of about 100m, “permitting one set of pan bar controls to be used for rigs on jibs or in remote locations. This device can be used with any Fujinon Digi Power HD/SD lens or for 3D stereoscopic rigs using a matched pair of lenses. Using encrypted data streams the WL-325A operates within the license free 2.4GHz band,” he added.
www.fujinon.dewww.pyser-sgi.com
