In 2015 we where introduced to James Davis through a film project and soon started discussing various bits of equipment that would bring new, exciting and innovative shots to the gimbal market. (James Davis is a well established Steadicam Operator and had become increasingly interested with the amazing potential of gimbals).
We discussed the idea of a in-shot quick release system and over the following months started to design and develop the system. We tried to look at the task as a complete system rather than just an accessory and encompassed a variety of ways to mount and rig the system in different situations.
We wanted to create a completely unique system, one that didn't rely on electro-magnetics or multi person operation. One that could be operated while the system was under tension (typically seen on a cable cam system) and one that was easily field maintainable.
We wanted to make our own Vibration Isolator so that it could interface with the multiple housings we had planned. We tried multiple configurations with cable types, cable materials, loop design, loop size and the memory of each cable and of course it ability to absorb vibrations and sudden impacts.
After multiple variations, we opted for the tried and tested method or opposing loops and it worked fantastically. Trialling multiple cable options, found the perfect match between vibration and impact absorption, memory and loading capacity. With the added benefit of making it a very modular system to adjust for varying payloads. Because of the large loop design it also gave the system minor impact and shock absorbing properties not just limited to eliminating vibration.
This Shotdock prototype is the result of a year of development and multiple years of trialling and modification. In addition to the original Offset Housing, we have now developed the Claw Housing and a whole new range of accessories for the Shotdock, some of which will also be suitable for drone use. We will be bringing this product to market in 2021..
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