Re: [LCtalk] Path generator

[David Raison]

On Wed, 7 Feb 2007 13:18:46 +0100, P. Koelman wrote:
> So in order to get the desired effect I need these layers:
> A: Transparent layer with the desired chase (pan & tilt only)
> B: Add layer with the positioning (pan & tilt only)
> C-etc: Shutter, color, gobo, prism, etc.

That is almost what I do.
I use layers as follows
A: the central position (set to ADD) (pan & tilt only)
B: path info (pan & tilt only)
C: everything else for the fixture (but NOT pan & tilt)
so A and B are transposed but the principle is the same.

In fact I sometimes put a few sec xfade on layer A and can then use a 
cuelist editor in 'follow' mode to manually move the focus point around 
during the show.

For example if i have a focus line across the stage at the back , 
another across the middle and one across stage front, I can seamlessly 
move the beams to follow the action on stage. when a small figure8 type 
path is running this can be very effective.


> So if I stop layer A, can I then position whatever is left
> visible in "C-etc" (e.g. solid red beam) to where I want it?
> Or do I need to keep A running with 100% transparency?

IMHO I have found it is best to leave the path layer running 127,127 
when you are not using it anymore.

If you want to try something very bizarre set the path layer to chase 
random :)  It was such an interesting effect that I included it in a 
musical number...


Rgds.
David Raison.
Hampshire, UK