In today’s fast-paced entertainment industry, technology is constantly evolving to meet the demands of live events. One such technology that has been making waves in the stage lighting industry is the zactrack® automated follow-system. The zactrack system is a cutting-edge technology that uses ultra-wideband radio tracking systems to accurately follow people and objects in motion. Using a 3D computer model, the system can map the movement of performers and other objects on stage, and then automatically control lighting fixtures to point, follow, and focus on them.
zactrack SMART is the world’s first plug-and-play automated follow system. System setup takes less than 15 minutes from unpacking the system components to 3D tracking for stage lighting, sound or video effects. zactrack SMART uses self-measuring “mesh network technology” to accurately calculate the dimensions of the stage without using any measurement aid … just like magic!
One of the most notable recent uses of the zactrack SMART system was for the Australian tour of DJ producer Flume. Flume is known for his unique blend of electronic, hip-hop, and pop music and has become one of the most popular and influential artists in the electronic music scene. He has toured extensively, performing at major music festivals and venues around the world and his live shows are known for their visually striking production, featuring cutting-edge technology and innovative stage design.
The zactrack SMART system was able to seamlessly follow the movement of the multiple guest vocal artists on stage, providing an immersive and dynamic lighting experience for the audience. The system offered several benefits to touring LD, Lynden Gare. “It eliminates the need for human control of follow-spots, freeing up operators to focus on other aspects of the show. It also allows for greater flexibility and creativity in lighting design, as the system can be programmed to react to specific movements and cues.
“After losing so many professional and veteran crew to other professions during COVID, it is unfortunately common to become frustrated with the lack of precision when it comes to new and inexperienced follow-spot operators. With the zactrack SMART system, I know that a guest’s key-light and back-light are always precisely ready to go as I push up the intensity fader.”
Flume’s use of the zactrack SMART system highlights the versatility and capabilities of advanced technology to automate processes and help humans in their work, and how it can be used to enhance the live performance experience for both the artist and the audience. It demonstrates how the zactrack SMART system can be utilised in a variety of live performances, and how it can be an effective tool for lighting professionals looking to create visually striking and dynamic shows.
AI systems like Zactrack and ChatGPT are becoming increasingly prevalent in a wide range of industries, and they have the potential to revolutionise the way we work and interact with technology. As AI technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see more and more innovative applications of these systems in different fields, improving efficiency and productivity across the board.
With its ability to follow people and objects in motion with high accuracy, the zactrack system has the potential to revolutionise the stage lighting industry and take live performance to a whole new level.
The zactrack SMART was supplied by Alive Technologies and is available to hire nationally.
Photos: Domenic Scopelliti
