MRMC releases new robotic head to support sports TV production

Mark Roberts Motion Control (MRMC) has announced the introduction of the AFC100 compact robotic head, which according to MD Assaff Rawner has been developed “to support the sports and live production market by offering progressive features such as unrestricted pan via 3G HD compatible slip rings, simplified control and scalability.”

Offered with precision digital servos and encoders, the new head also allows integration with MRMC motion control software, enabling features such as multi-camera real-time tracking of a subject or point of interest and performing repeat moves for overlay analysis.

The AFC100 features an integrated Ethernet hub allowing pan, tilt, lens and camera control to be routed via slip rings, while its compact size offers up to a 14Kg payload with speeds of up to 100 degrees per second.

The new head has evolved from the company’s range of compact robotics including the Robo Head, SFH-30, SFH-50 and Ulti-head, and compliments Polycam, the company’s multi-camera live production tracking system.

A bespoke version of the head has already been commissioned by a medical facility, employing nine networked heads and a 3G HD infrastructure.

Rawner continues: “This new head is testament to our focus on delivering high-end technology that meets new TV production standards and workflows, while ensuring we continue to provide a tailored service for broadcast customers.”