Like its predecessor, the EK2 system is designed expressly to deliver a guaranteed faultless drop of a drape, curtain, screen, or any other object like a dummy or mannequin deployed within a show or event. A major new control feature of the enhanced EK2 solution is an intrinsic 2-channel firing system. This allows a double drop via a single system: a two-stage sequence often used in reveal-and-discard applications. The two circuits can also be fired simultaneously if required.
New verification and test functions maximise operational confidence for the EK2 user. The new system constantly monitors the integrity of the electrical circuit and connections, and features both control panel and stage-side indicators that read the position of built-in safety tabs. As well as providing confidence that everything is in place and armed for a successful Kabuki drop, this monitored safety arrangement permits effective system testing without actually dropping the load.
At the heart of the new system is the Electro Kabuki unit itself. With its body manufactured from rugged Nylon 6 injection moulding, the EK2 actuator module is both stronger and lighter. But it still features a maximum drop-load rating of 50Kg per device. Mounting is kept simple through a Manfrotto half-coupler rated at 300Kg loading, maintaining compatibility with most industry mounting and lighting rail systems. In addition, the EK2 actuator is backward compatible mechanically and in its mounted hook height with the original Electro Kabuki system.
EK2 modules can be designated as Circuit 1 or Circuit 2 units, a status that is factory pre-programmed, in order to assign modules to the appropriate firing signal for two-stage drops.
A key safety feature is an all-new intelligent safety and arming mechanism. Each EK2 module features a rotatable safety tab that mechanically prevents the load hook from physically actuating, either accidentally during set up or on purpose for test firings. The safety tab is supported by visual status indicators on every module body and at the control system console. "It's all about absolute confidence in the integrity of your theatrical reveal system, and preventing a failed drop spoiling the show," says Tim Lloyd, Electro Kabuki product specialist.
The underside of each EK2 module and an end-of-line terminator feature a blue LED safety indicator, designed to be easily seen from the ground to verify the armed status when the modules are mounted; the module LEDs replicate status indicators on the firing box. "This simple innovation means that system status can be monitored from 'the business end', as well as from the comfort of the control room," explains Lloyd.
On the EK2 module, a flashing LED indicates the safety tab in the test position; a solid lamp that the tab is off and ready to actuate. On the line terminator, a solid lamp verifies that the circuit is complete. If it's not illuminated, there's a break in the circuit which can also be determined from the EK2 module indicators. On the firing control box, a Circuit lamp flashes if the circuit is incomplete and turns solid when the circuit is good. A Safety Tab lamp flashes if any one (or more) of the safety tabs on the EK2 modules is in the test position, which would prevent that module from actuating.
Also new to the EK2 system is a DMX-compatible firing box for multichannel information. Making the firing box DMX addressa
