User Manual

8
Introduction
The Vector 450 pan and tilt head embodies a unique and patented spring counterbalancing mech-
anism, thin film (TF) drag assemblies for pan and tilt motions and an adjustable camera mounting
plate.
Perfect balance
The spring counterbalancing mechanism comprises four springs operating against a three-dimen-
sional cam connected to the camera mounting platform. The balance mechanism is adjusted by
a knob (8), situated on the right front lower part of the main body, which varies the mechanical
advantage between the cam and the springs. The knob has a ‘push in and turn’ action and is fitted
with a clutch to prevent inadvertent damage to the balance mechanism.
Maximum and minimum payloads that can be balanced, and tilt ranges, are dependent on the
weight of the camera and accessories and on the centre of gravity (C of G) height.
The graph shows the range of load and C of G height that can be maintained in balance. The shad-
ed area of graph corresponds to those load/C of G combinations that can be balanced over the
full tilt range. The area to the right indicate the progressively reducing tilt range with greater load
and higher C of G.
Balance graph
0
0
20 40 60 80
20 40 60 80 100
120 140
160 180
50
75
100
125
150
175
200
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
mm
i
n.
kg
lb
Centre of Gravity Height
Total Payload
±90°