Open Automation

Open Automation is a new venture, set up to provide a platform for developing, selling, and supporting the best live entertainment automation products from a variety of designers and manufacturers worldwide.

The full website will be completed soon so watch this space!

EMAIL US

We will be exhibiting innovative equipment, including Whirly Reeler, along with packaged drives and controls, that interface seamlessly together.

Come and see us on Stand A77!

Olympia London, 1-3 September 2024

BOOK FOR FREE HERE!

Open Automation wins prestigious Engineering Product of the Year Award!

We are proud to announce that Open Automation has been honoured with the ABTT Show 2024 award for Engineering Product of the Year for our innovative Xwinch. This powerful, compact, and quiet winch is primarily designed for performer flying but is versatile enough to fulfil many roles within the entertainment industry.

Revolutionary Xwinch Technology

Xwinch stands out as a zero fleet winch, utilising the well-established technique of an axially fixed drum and a sliding ‘take-off’ sheave arrangement. However, what sets Xwinch apart is our novel (patent pending) ‘compensator’ device, which brings numerous benefits to winch technology:

Enhanced Efficiency: The compensator eliminates the axial rope force from the sliding take-off sheave, allowing the drum helix to move the take-off sheave slider without the need for a lead screw or ball screw. This increases the winch’s overall efficiency.
Compact Design: Without the need for a lead screw, Xwinch is more compact, allowing for easier integration into various setups.
Simplified Mechanics: The reduction in mechanical complexity makes the winch more reliable and easier to maintain.
Versatile Applications: The compensator removes any rope-length change due to the axial movement of the take-off sheave slider, enabling ‘roll-on-roll-off’ operation with both ropes exiting the same end. This feature is perfect for counterweight assist and similar applications.

Key Features of Xwinch

Xwinch integrates several advanced features designed to enhance performance, safety, and user convenience:

Integrated Motor: By placing the motor inside the drum, Xwinch significantly reduces the overall volume compared to external motor designs.
Direct-Drive System: The direct-drive system eliminates the need for a gearbox, reducing noise and increasing efficiency.

Mayr ROBA-stop-stage Brake: This super-neat, dual-circuit brake reduces E-stop loads, ensuring safer operations for performers and the grid.
Comprehensive Load Monitoring: Load cells on all ropes provide constant load monitoring, detecting over-load, under-load, and snags (sudden increases in load).
Non-Contact Winding Error Detection: This feature allows the use of synthetic ropes and ensures precision in winding operations.
Brake Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of brake release and wear ensures the winch remains in optimal condition.
SIL 3 Encoders: Dual multi-turn, absolute encoders, requiring no battery, provide speed and position checks and ensure the correct functioning of the compensator.
Emergency Safety Measures: A single manual brake release handle is stored on the winch for emergency lowering in case of power failure.
Positive Break Limit Switches: Four switches (initials and ultimates in both directions) enhance operational safety.
Optional Polycarbonate Cover: For additional protection and durability, an optional polycarbonate cover is available.

Conclusion

The Xwinch by Open Automation exemplifies cutting-edge engineering and innovative design, earning it the prestigious ABTT Show 2024 award. Its advanced features and versatile applications make it an essential tool in the entertainment industry, providing both safety and efficiency. Explore the future of performer flying with Xwinch and experience the difference that award-winning technology can make.