15
Section 1
Introduction and Description
Contents
Para
Introduction
1
The Vinten Fulmar pedestal
is capable of supporting and counterbalancing a payload
weighing between 22.68 kg (50 lb) and 158 kg (350 lb), which provides it with adequate capacity for the
majority of cameras, camera mountings, prompters and other accessories.
2
The pedestal has a fully counterbalanced, nitrogen-charged column which may be raised and lowered
under hand control. Pedestal motion about the studio is controlled by the cameraman who directs the
movement with the steering ring. A foot-operated changeover mechanism allows selection of crab or steer
modes of movement.
Description
General
3
The major assemblies of the Fulmar pedestal are the telescopic column and the base.
4
The telescopic column is located in a fixed tube secured to the base assembly, and consists of a
three-stage extension unit and a two-stage ram. The ram is pressurised by nitrogen stored in a tubular tank
and this tank forms the main structure of the base.
5
The pressure of the nitrogen in the ram balances the weight of the moving parts of the pedestal column
plus the payload (i.e. the camera and any accessories). When lowering or raising the load the effort applied to
the column by the cameraman needs only to overcome the friction of the moving parts and the drag preset by
the variable friction control. The column sections are linked internally by cords and chains running over pulleys
and sprockets. This system ensures that all three sections extend or retract to the same extent.
6
To balance differing payloads, the nitrogen pressure is either increased or decreased as required. Fine
adjustment of the column balance is by means of trim weights
which are placed in a circular tray
above
the steering ring
. Two storage trays
are fitted to the base to hold trim weights which are not in use.
