Automated Trucks 2013

Outline

The breif is simple; to create an automated truck that can move from SL to SR and back again. The challenge comes from only being allowed to use one winch to control the truck. Below is a detailed explination of how to create this effect and how to improve it for a show.

Setup

The setup for this system is very simple and you dont need a lot of equipment. Listed below are the steps to follow to create your automated zip up tower.

1.Make sure your stage is clear of any obstructions where the truck is going to run.

2.Move 1 winch to ether SL or SR so that the drop is going through the gap. Be sure to follow the SSOW for moving the winches

3.Run the line down to stage level.

4.Divert the line to run accross stage using the devert pulley shown below.

5.Using a 1T strop, shackle and masterlink, attach the automation line to your truck. Image Below

6.Using a 1T strop, shackle and masterlink, attach your return line (manilla) using a Bowline or Double Figure of 8 to the other side of your truck. Image Below

7.Attach a pulley to the deck to divert your return line to the bar you will be using. (you may need more than one pulley depending on where the bar and truck is)

8.Fly in the bar you want to use to create the return system.

9.Using a clovehitch, attach the return line to the bar you have chosen to run the return system.

10.Weight the bar running the return system to anything under 200KG. We only used 5 1/2 weights because the truck was not to carry any weight.

11.Take the break off the allocated bar and let it take up the slack in the system.

12.Make sure you leave the break off the bar or else the system wont work!