The Louma 2, a new-generation camera-movement system built on an open-architecture platform, is being introduced to the U.S. by Panavision Remote Systems and Loumasystems. The system was previewed this weekend at Cinegear 2009 in Hollywood.

The new system expands Louma’s telescopic crane technology exponentially with the introduction of an open-architecture programmable software platform, ShotAssist, that enables cinematographers to plan intricate multi-axis shots, and execute them with less rehearsal and fewer takes than any other camera system. Master/slave coordination between any axis of the crane and remote head is now possible.

“Today’s technologically and visually sophisticated audiences are pushing directors and cinematographers to be ever more creative in developing eye-arresting shots,” said Jean-Marie Lavalou, Academy Award-winning co-founder of Loumasystems. “We designed the Louma2 to meet those demands by creating an open-architecture system so flexible that virtually any shot imaginable is possible, and any technology innovation can be incorporated.”

While some capabilities have yet to be announced, other innovations have yet to be discovered. “The crews themselves will develop new tricks and applications,” noted Richard Amadril Vice President and General Manager of Panavision Remote Systems.

Among its new features, the system has a newly developed arm allowing over 24 feet of telescopic travel. Two- or three-axis remote head and leveling gear can be switched easily from overslung to underslung and back. The ShotAssist software will handle pan compensation (e.g., backpan), and can easily allow for compensation for tilt or telescope. Pan, tilt, and roll limits are available at the touch of a button with adjustable ramps to aid framing.

The remote head is fully equipped with Preston F.I.Z. and remote start connections, as well as 12v and 24v camera and accessory power hook ups.

New ultra-rigid arm and remote head construction permit a high degree of image stability. All cabling is internal: No messy cables along the exterior of the arm.

The unit comes with custom trollies and an operator’s cart. It can be ready to shoot in less than 60 minutes.

Key specifications for the Louma2 include:

• Maximum lens height overslung: 37 feet
• Maximum lens height underslung: 32 feet 10 inches
• Telescopic range: 24′ 2″
• Maximum telescopic speed: 2.6 m/s
• Maximum camera load (2 axis): 100 lbs.
• Maximum camera load (3 axis): 66 lbs.
• Clearance (W x H): 4′ 11″ x 7′
• Minimum length: 7′ 10″
• Maximum length: 32′
• Overall length retracted: 17′
• Overall length extended: 41′ 6″
• Track width: 3′ 3″ / 1m
• Maximum overall weight: 4130 lbs.
• Power: 110v 20A