Real-time Linux flies cameras over NFL games

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Jan. 16, 2007

FSMLabs says its real-time Linux distribution is being used to fly cameras above NFL games, film sets, and other events. RTLinux powers the real-time camera control software used by Cablecam, a provider of video footage to sports broadcasting companies and movie studios.

Cablecam system filming an NFL game
(Click to enlarge)

Caption
(Click to enlarge)

The Cablecam system comprises a 100-pound camera (pictured at right) that is suspended (by double lines, in case one breaks) from four points around the perimeter of the sports arena or film set. All lines are connected via pulleys to a central control point where four 20-horsepower, 3,000-rpm motorized winches control the cameras.

The winch motors are controlled by a pair of embeded computers that run RTLinux and "Overdrive" motion control software. The software enables a live operator to control the camera's position via joysticks, while a second operator remotely operates the camera.

The Overdrive software is said to "stream motion over fiber optics" to the motors, which in turn update the camera's position some 200 times per second. Additionally, a custom graphical user interface is said to allow rapid reconfiguration during live events.

Cablecam system
(Click for a larger view with more details about the system)
FSMLabs says the Cablecam system runs Linux on top of its RTCore virtualization platform. RTCore provides a real-time POSIX-compliant API for time-critical tasks, while Linux provides a familiar environment for the development of sophisticated application stacks, such as user interfaces.

FSMLabs CEO Victor Yodaiken stated, "Our customers can take advantage of the rich toolset that Linux offers, knowing that behind the scenes, RTCore ensures that their hard real-time applications will run on-time."

According to Cablecam founder Jim Rudnusky, "Flying expensive cameras 12-50 feet in the air above football stars on live TV is a mission-critical application. RTLinux was chosen for its reliability: it keeps personnel safe and ensures that the camera keeps flying when the game is on the air. The deterministic timing available from RTLinux is crucial to achieving smooth motor motion at high torque."

Availability

RTLinux is available now, for a wide range of control applications. Also available are an LNet real-time networking add-on, and a "Controls Kit" UI elements package.

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