Intelligent Fixture Rigging
An intelligent fixture is a fixture with multiple functions, such as movement, gobo and colour.
Intelligent fixtures are connected to a constant power supply, termed non-dimming power to distinguish it from the variable power supply provided to generic fixtures by dimmers. The fixtures are also connected to DMX directly, allowing all the functions of the fixture to be controlled.
Rigging is similar to the rigging of generic fixtures, but is slightly more complex.
Rigging/De-rigging requires 2 people
As rigging intelligent fixtures can be more complex than rigging generic ones, it is best to read and understand Generic Fixture Rigging before reading this.
Rigging Locations
The wide variety of intelligent fixtures means there are a number of different ways to rig them, depending on the type of fixture used.
This article aims to cover the basic techniques of rigging intelligent fixtures, and will cover the different ways each can be rigged.
Moving Heads
Moving head fixtures make up the majority of fixtures in Venue 1. These include both spot and wash fixtures, and examples include the Alpha Spots, Alpha Washes, Pro Spots and 5-Stars
Moving head fixtures can either be rigged hanging down from a bar, truss or other rigging point,supported by clamps; or upright on a flat, solid surface such as Nivodeck or the floor.
Moving Mirrors
Moving mirror fixtures, or "scanners", are not used as often as moving heads. Examples include...
Moving mirror fixtures can only be rigged hanging down from a rigging point. Although they can stand upright, the DMX sockets and ventilation fans are often located on the bottom surface, so they cannot be used in this way.
Architectural Fixtures
There are several architectural wash fixtures in the Union, occasionally used in Venue 1 or around the Union. They are used to wash large surfaces/areas, such as a screen or exterior wall of the building. The two types present are Kolorados and City Colors.
The architectural fixtures are stored in their own wheeled flight cases. These fixtures are always rigged upright, and are always rigged in their flight cases - the lid is removed to allow use of the fixture.
These fixtures are very heavy, so should only be transported using the flight cases. If they need to be lifted onto a different level, such as onto the stage, then an absolute minimum of two people is required, although 3-4 people is recommended.
Others
There are a number of other intelligent fixtures, such as Martin Destroyers.
These resemble generic fixtures in shape, and should be rigged by hanging from a rigging point using a clamp.
Before Rigging
Check Rigging Point
Check the area around the rigging point, whether it is a lighting bar or a space on the floor, to make sure there are no obstructions that could make rigging difficult or hazardous. Take care when rigging near other fixtures, as these may be hot, and ensure sufficient clearance is left around intelligent fixtures to allow their full range of movement.
Remember to allow enough space around the fixture currently being rigged, for its full range of movement.
Prepare Fixture
Prepare the fixture for rigging
Suspended
If the fixture is to be rigged suspended from a bar/truss, it must be fitted with clamps.
The most common type of clamp used for moving head fixtures is a circular Cheeseborough clamp, also called a pipe clamp or C-clamp ("pipe clamp" will be used for the rest of this article). These are able to support the fixture and cope with any movement introduced when the fixture is in use.
Pipe clamps contain a bolt as part of the clamp structure, and this is fitted with a wingnut. Loosen the wingnut to allow the clamp to open and close for rigging, but do not remove the wingnut!
A number of moving head fixtures within Venue 1, such as the Alpha spots, have pipe clamps tightly bolted onto the fixture. These should not be removed. See below for guidelines on rigging the fixture upright.
The second type of clamp used is the G-clamp, as used for generic fixtures. These are mostly used for moving mirror fixtures, and sometimes for moving heads.
Space frame clamps should not be used for intelligent fixtures. The space frame cannot support the additional weight and movement of these fixtures.
Moving head fixtures should be fitted with two clamps (of the same type/size), spaced approximately 15 cm apart, and bolted into mounting holes on the fixture or on an adaptor on the base of the fixture (speak to a senior member of the crew if you are unsure about this).