24/11/2025
Precision Stage Automation System
26-Axis EtherCAT-Controlled Rigging Solution
Revolutionary Control Meets Theatrical Excellence
Segev Technologies proudly presents a state-of-the-art 26-motor stage rigging system that combines industrial-grade precision with intuitive control.
Iโm really proud to share one of the most complex and satisfying projects Iโve done so far ๐ญโ๏ธ
Over the last months we designed, built and commissioned a 26-axis motorized stage rigging system (โืฆืืืืโ) for a new theatre โ a system that turns the fly tower into a precise, programmable motion platform.
Instead of ropes and counterweights, everything is now driven by 26 motors, each with its own inverter, all synchronized with ยฑ1 cm positioning accuracy. Lighting battens, curtains and projection screens can move smoothly, repeatably, and safely โ exactly to the same height every time.
๐ง Whatโs inside?
At the core of the system is a Beckhoff PLC talking to 26 Mitsubishi VFDs over EtherCAT.
This industrial architecture gives us:
Real-time, synchronized motion of all 26 axes
Very smooth acceleration and deceleration
Reliable operation for long-term daily use
๐ How the operator works with it
On stage we built a dedicated control desk with:
Two screens showing all 26 axes in real time
A touchscreen for presets, trims and diagnostics
An industrial joystick for live movement
Hard-wired emergency stop and a full safety layer
The system supports three operating modes:
Show Mode โ pre-programmed cues for complete shows, so complex transitions can be recalled at the push of a button.
Position Mode โ send any bar to an exact height (for LX battens, legs, borders, screens, etc.) with repeatable trims.
Speed Mode โ manual joystick control for focusing and rehearsals, with smooth, variable speed and full safety supervision.
๐ก Safety & reliability
Because weโre lifting heavy loads above people, safety was a top priority: emergency stop circuits, travel limits on every axis, monitoring and clear feedback for the operator โ all designed as an integrated system.
๐ค Teamwork
Mechanical design, construction and theatre infrastructure: Charmer Group LTD
Automation system design, control and integration: Segev Technologies
If you know a theatre, performing arts center or multi-purpose venue that wants to upgrade from manual counterweights to modern, safe and precise stage automation โ Iโd be happy to talk and show more from behind the scenes. ๐