SoftRail, a software-defined rail system that uses projected light to create a path for robotic camera systems, has been launched by Shotoku.
It combines the path-following capabilities of a physical rail system with the total freedom of a free-roaming pedestal, which Shotoku claims will open up studio floor space to limitless software-defined paths while eliminating the restrictions of physical floor tracks on presenters, guests, and other cameras.
James Eddershaw, Managing Director, Shotoku UK, said: “Around 12 years ago, rail camera systems that were built ‘into’ the set began to appear in TV News studios. While these systems follow every arc and contour of a set beautifully, they seriously hinder future production design flexibility and new creativity. That’s why we have developed SoftRail.”
The virtual tracks work with Shotoku’s TR-XT studio control system and operators use TR-XT’s enhanced StudioView mode to design a SoftRail. Once enabled, SmartPed behaves as if it is physically mounted on rails. A simple XY joystick moves the SmartPed left or right along the rail path allowing the operator to focus on the other axes and maintain perfect framing.
Stand Number 12.F47
Company Shotoku Broadcast Systems
You are not signed in
Only registered users can comment on this article.
Adobe to acquire AI firm Topaz Labs
Adobe has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Topaz Labs, an Emmy-winning AI company that develops tools for video and image enhancement. Terms of the deal, expected to close in the second half of 2026, were not revealed.
Looking Gude for Tag team
Cable specialist Argosy has expanded its infrastructure portfolio with the addition of Gude Systems’ intelligent power distribution units (PDUs) and GeoTag asset tracking technology from Tazaar. The firm becomes an official distributor for both manufacturers.
Vortex spins up 2 to go
Vortex2 and Vortex2 Soft are two new compact lights from Creamsource offering the same CreamOS workflow, colour science, rugged build quality and IP65 weather resistance of its existing Vortex family, but in a smaller 160W form factor.
Cinema lighting with added punch
New from Fiilex are the G9 Color, its largest profile light to date, and the MotoK40, a 3600W moving-head LED punch light for film, live events and virtual sets.
Blackwell box boost for live production
Aimed at enterprise video production, and combining Grass Valley hardware and AMPP OS, and NVIDIA Blackwell GPU acceleration, AMPP Edge Live has its European debut at IBC2026. New capabilities can be introduced through software, allowing user workflows to evolve as requirements change.
