DollyPLUS v2 User Manual

This guide will walk you through the setup, usage, path creation, tracking, and calibration steps of DollyPLUS v2, including best practices and tips for optimal results. ⸻ 1. Tripod Setup on DollyPLUS • Ensure your tripod legs are evenly extended and all feet touch the ground. • This guarantees the tripod’s connection point aligns perfectly with DollyPLUS — a critical detail for accurate point tracking. For Tripod X: • Keep the leg extensions fully closed. • Lift and place the tripod directly in the center position. • Adjust each foot individually for proper alignment. • Use the included Velcro straps to secure the tripod if needed. ⸻ 2. Direction and Orientation • The logo side of DollyPLUS is the front. Your camera must face this direction. • Make sure the camera is not tilting up or down, but instead looking directly ahead. • Once correctly aligned, you can proceed with Point Tracking Mode. ⸻ 3. Teaching Points in Point Tracking Mode 1. Aim your camera at a subject and press the HeadPLUS button. 2. Move DollyPLUS to a new position, aim at the same subject, and press the button again. 3. The system enters Preview Mode — useful for verifying accuracy but not recommended for final video recording. 4. Continue by setting paths and points for actual motion recording. ⸻ 4. Path Creation Options There are currently two path types accessible via the PAT button near the joystick: • Instant Path • A straight line path between saved positions. • Arc Path • A curved path around a subject. • You’ll be prompted to: 1. Align the wheels to pass through the arc’s center. 2. Press Done. 3. Move DollyPLUS to a new position and align again. 4. Press Done to finalize the arc. This enables the dolly to move while keeping the subject centered throughout the motion. ⸻ 5. Saving Positions • Use the joystick to move DollyPLUS along the selected path. • Press and hold to save positions along the path. • After saving, you can trigger movements between positions. ⸻ 6. Important Note About Manual Movement If you manually move DollyPLUS after setting positions: • The entire path and points shift with the device. • Paths are relative to the Dolly’s position, not absolute. ⸻ 7. Path Accuracy and Calibration • DollyPLUS uses no fixed track, so slight deviations may occur between takes. • This makes it unsuitable for VFX shots requiring perfect repeatability. To reduce deviation: • Perform Path Optimization Calibration: • Disconnect all other paired devices. • Connect only to DollyPLUS. • Go to Device Settings ▶️ Dolly Calibration. This aligns performance with your current surface type and payload. ⸻ 8. What’s Coming Next? A third type of path creation method is in development. Follow Edelkrone updates to be notified when it’s released.