XMove – the stand-alone user interface (UI) for automation in the entertainment industry.

XMove can be used as the interface for existing automation systems or on new systems where the control and mechanical systems are supplied by others.

  • Simple to learn and use. Intuitive and powerful.
  • Fully graphical interface for plotting and displaying moves.
  • Metric/imperial display modes. 
  • Full 3D visualiser included as standard, to show representation of the theatre space.
  • Multi-target moves, locked groups, multiple users, shows, and multiple venues. 
  • Rigging & referencing and scenery modes to support repertory theatres. 
  • Developed and running on the Apple Mac (using the new super-fast M1 chipset).
  • Powerful robust application created in Apple’s latest pro -SwiftUI.
  • Interface to multiple hardware architectures (e.g. Siemens/Beckhoff/Control Techniques). 
  • Retro fit to control existing systems (our experts can provide expertise as required). 
  • Available for use with new systems with control/mechanics provided by a third party.

Purchasing

XMove is free to download for all off-line use. As such it can be used for exploring / testing / training virtually with the full feature set enabled. When XMove is connected to a ‘real’ system that can move axes, a license is required, the cost of which is based on the number of axes in operation. All XMove features are available then to use with the live system.

  • XMove is available on a subscription basis, for a standard price to all users / companies. (Discounts for multi-year licenses, partial year license at a premium).
  • Licensing is based on a per axis per year basis (shorter time periods available).
  • Software support (email) and all upgrades included within the subscription.
  • XM Desk can be purchased or rented.

Visual Interface

Key to XMove is a simple, graphics-only approach to programming and the display of information which provide the user with a visual representation of the state, moves and cues. Because the universal language of symbols and numbers replaces words, the interface is truly international.

Even complex multi-target moves are given a clear display that shows the moves that the axis will undertake.

  • Symbols in place of words (language independent).
  • Four programmable playbacks, identified by colour.
  • Visual editing of axis moves.
  • Graphical representation of cues.
  • Text-based alternatives.
  • Point & click interface.

Complex Moves

Editing Complex Moves

Complex multi-target moves can be created simply with a visual interface that allows all parts of the move to be edited, and speeds and delays to be modified – either individually or all together. The complete sequence can be repeated multiple (or an infinite number of) times. The user is given clear feedback on the current status of the sequence when it is played back.

  • Clear visual editing of the move – no need to comprehend complex spreadsheets.
  • Up to 8 targets within a move.
  • Each move with individual programmable delay time/accel/speed/decel.
  • Up to 10 repeats (or ‘repeat forever’ option).
  • Status view shows which move/repeat is currently being executed.

3D Visualisation

We think that a 3D visualisation tool is key to an automation UI. Automation, by its very nature is stage time intensive. If automation cues are being rehearsed, the stage needs to be clear of any other activity, so the ability to program cues offline is paramount.

The visualisation view also provides a very useful training tool, with operators & programmers able to gain a familiarity with the system quickly without the need to use valuable stage time.

Further, being able to show the creative team how an automation move will look, and plot the show, potentially even before it is built means that the speeds/accelerations and travel distances can be checked before the automation is designed/built, potentially saving £££.