Cinematographer
Der X-Type ist Panthers aktuelles Flaggschiff. Das High-Low-Turnstile ermöglicht extrem tiefe Kamerapositionen ohne Umbau.
Electromechanical camera dolly by Panther featuring a 360° rotatable High-Low Turnstile head and four steering modes.
Overview
The X-Type is an electromechanical camera dolly manufactured by the German company Panther GmbH (Aying near Munich). It belongs to the family of studio dollies, which are mobile camera platforms with a motor-driven height-adjustable column, accommodating the camera, operator, and a dolly grip. A characteristic feature of the X-Type is its 360° rotatable and detachable High-Low Turnstile. This replaces the separate pivot bearing of the column, allows for exceptionally low camera positions, and can be adjusted without removing the camera from the dolly. According to the manufacturer, this design principle makes the column approximately 10 kg lighter than in previous models.
Steering and Movement
The X-Type offers three steering modes in its basic version: CRAB (all wheels parallel, allowing free movement in any direction), FRONT (conventional front-wheel steering), and REAR (rear-wheel steering). With the optional Crab & Steer Kit, a fourth mode, STEER, is added, which provides geometrically correct steering via mathematically calculated elliptical sprockets. The patented Range Extender doubles the lift travel and speed of the column without increasing the dolly's footprint; the camera movement remains 100% linear. The dolly is controlled via a Bluetooth handheld transmitter, which can be operated wirelessly or wired.
Technical Data
Load-bearing manufacturer specifications (other dimensions such as lift height or total payload are not publicly disclosed by Panther):
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Column transport weight | 67 kg |
| Range Extender | 15 kg |
| Crab & Steer Kit | 3 kg |
| Center Mount for crane arms/jibs | up to 800 kg |
| Power supply | Input 100–240 V, Output 2× 24 V / 4 A |
| Steering modes | CRAB, FRONT, REAR (+ STEER optional) |
Use on Set
The X-Type is used for classic dolly shots, both freely on smooth studio floors and on laid tracks. Various wheel options are available for different surfaces: studio wheels, pneumatic tires, Big Wheels, and track wheels for rail operation. A double braking system acts on both the track and the studio/pneumatic wheels. For transport in confined spaces, the carrying handles can be removed, and the column can be detached from the chassis. The rotatable seat is adjustable independently of the camera boom, improving ergonomics for the operator.
From the crafts
Perspectives
Director
Mit dem X-Type kann ich spontan zwischen verschiedenen Kamerahöhen wechseln - vom Bodenshot bis zur Übersicht in Sekunden.
Producer
Der X-Type wurde auf der IBC Amsterdam vorgestellt und repräsentiert Panthers 40-jährige Erfahrung im Dolly-Bau.
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1. Zu welchem Department gehört „X-Type Dolly"?
2. Wie viele verschiedene Fachperspektiven bietet dieser Eintrag?