PhotoRobot MultiCam and Centerless Table Installation Guide

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The following documentation contains detailed instructions on the assembly and first use of the PhotoRobot MultiCam (Pro / Pro XL) with the Centerless Table (CL1300 / CL850). This information aims to support PhotoRobot customers who have recently purchased a PhotoRobot device. It includes an overview of the technology, with a step-by-step walkthrough for installing the MultiCam in combination with a PhotoRobot Centerless Table.

Important: Always refer to PhotoRobot Safety Information & Instructions in along with any documentation provided specifically for your device. Additionally, the initial installation of a PhotoRobot device must always be carried out by an authorized PhotoRobot authority. Authorities with authorization to install PhotoRobot are an approved distributor, or a representative of the manufacturer itself.

Note: For an overview of the Centerless Table devices and their integration in the photo studio, refer to the Centerless Table CL850 - CL1300 User Guide.

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PhotoRobot MultiCam Pro / Pro XL and Centerless Table

Thank you and congratulations on your purchase of the PhotoRobot MultiCam and Centerless Table. The PhotoRobot MultiCam Pro / MultiCam Pro XL is a multi-camera rig compatible with both the Centerless Table CL1300 and CL850 models. As a multi-camera rig, the system works in combination with the rotational dynamics of the Centerless Table to automate the capture of multiple cameras for multi-row and 3D product photography. This allows for the capture of products from numerous elevations at once to produce complete 3D experiences, 3D product spins, and photos to generate 3D models.

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1. Product Description - MultiCam Pro / MultiCam Pro XL

The MultiCam is available in two models: the MultiCam Pro, and the larger MultiCam Pro XL. The only difference is the size of the camera arch, with the XL functioning as the larger of the two models. Both the MultiCam Pro and Pro XL are compatible with all PhotoRobot robotic turntables. The device enables the capture of 144+ images from multiple cameras in approximately 20 seconds. This includes the simultaneous capture of marketing angles and top views in a 360-degree rotational range. Meanwhile, the extremely precise camera control and image capture with 13 available camera positions supports rapid multi-row photography. The precision of the robotized capture enables the automated post-processing of individual images for 3D spin and 3D model generation.

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Key components and features of the MultiCam Pro / Pro XL include:

• Synchronous multi-camera capture in a single turntable rotation
• Camera arch available in two sizes (Pro / Pro XL)
• Software control of all cameras simultaneously
• Support for 13 camera positions at a spacing of 7.5°
• Motor-assisted height adjustment to the center of photographed objects
• Precise & reliable setup of cameras thanks to high structure rigidity
• Wide range of accessories for Manfrotto tripod heads 
• MultiCam portal for quick connection to different PhotoRobot workstations 
• Lighting options for both flash and continuous studio lights

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1.1. Workstation Overview - CL1300 / CL850

The MultiCam functions in combination with the Centerless Table (CL1300 / CL850) as a universal photography turntable and multi-camera rig solution for robotized 3D photography. Together, the two devices enable shadow-free automated photography of small to medium size products. This includes objects of varying photographic properties: transparent, glossy, light, and dark products. At the same time, the turning glass plate holds objects from the size of an earring to luggage, with a diffuse background that enables even lighting of objects from all sides during photography. Thus, each camera shooting from the MultiCam can automatically create high-quality photos on a pure white background, including marketing angles and top views simultaneously. At the same time, this ensures quick and highly efficient automation in the post-processing and publishing of images.

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1.2. MultiCam & Centerless Table Components

The main components for a MultiCam with Centerless Table installation include the parts for both devices, and their control units. 

• Centerless Table basic kit (device body, frame, stemples)
• Centerless Table HD rack with control units and router 
• Control Unit G6, Laser Box, Switch Box, and SynchroBox
• Internal cable routing through left and right stemples
• Centerless Table background holder console
• Workstation laser connection and flash lights holders
• Centerless Table plate (1300 mm / 850 mm)
• Centerless Table background assembly
• MultiCam portal for quick setup at the workstation
• MultiCam bow, camera mounting, and cable connections

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2. Basic Kit Assembly of MultiCam with CL1300 / CL850

Assembly of the MultiCam with CL1300 / CL850 begins from the basic kit of the Centerless Table device. The basic kit represents the body (frame) of the Centerless table. 

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2.1. Construction of the CL1300 / CL850 Basic Kit

2.1.1. Place the Centerless Table basic kit on a flat surface, ensuring it rests evenly on the ground.

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2.1.2. Locate the labeled cardboard box with 20 x rubber bands, 10 x pins, 5 x socket, and 4 x feet.

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2.1.3. Unpack the box and take the plastic bag containing the 4 x feet with pins and sockets.

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2.1.4. Use a forklift or similar lifting device to lift the CL1300 / CL850 above the ground high enough and screw in the 4 feet upside down into position. Screw each foot x 4 in tightly and as far up into the machine frame as possible.

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2.2. Assembly of Stemples Type H, Type R

2.2.1. Locate the machine stemples packaged in bubble wrap and labeled: “Reinforced stemples to type H” (code: KHANYTRF), and “Side stemples Type R” (code: KHANYTR).

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2.2.2. Remove both sets of stemples from their packaging.

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2.2.3. Locate the four screws with thick washers on both sides of the Centerless Table, and loosen each of the four screws to unscrew them.

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2.2.4. Next, fasten the non-reinforced side stemples (Type R) to both sides of the Centerless Table.

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2.2.5. Notice the large open rectangular spaces in the stemples. These areas are a design feature for the placement of wires at the bottom of the stemples next to the fixing screws with thick washers.

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2.2.6. Also pay attention to the two rectangular holes at the top of the stemples from the backside view of the Centerless Table.

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2.2.7. After construction, the basic kit functions as the body of the machine frame, with stemples on the sides and four feet at the bottom.

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2.3. MultiCam Portal Assembly

2.3.1. Next, locate the bubble-wrapped part labeled MultiCam Portal for 1655 Table (code: KHMCP1655).

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2.3.2. Unpack the MultiCam Portal, and remove the covers to the trapezoidal rod covers on both sides of the portal.

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2.3.3. Locate the plastic bags containing the portal screws.

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2.3.4. Prepare 2 x screws for fastening into the portal.

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2.3.5. Connect one side of the portal, fastening only one screw to do so.

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2.3.6. Connect the other side of the portal, using only one screw per side. 

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2.3.7. Raise the portal to a vertical position, and then tighten the remaining 3 x screws on each side.

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2.3.8. After ensuring all screws are tightly secured, the MultiCam Portal installation is ready and should appear as it does in the following photo.

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2.3.9. Replace the trapezoidal rod covers, and fasten them into place.

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2.4. MultiCam Bow Assembly

2.4.1. After assembly of the MultiCam portal, the next step is assembling the MultiCam bow. To do this, there are 2 x bow holders which will fasten to the Centerless Table.

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2.4.2. Locate and unwrap the 2 x bow holders from the protective bubble wrap. 

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2.4.3. Unpack the 2x bow holders with screws, and prepare to join the bow holders together by setting them next to each other as in the following photos.

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2.4.4. Next, locate the 2 x hexagonal rods with tape holding them together, and remove the tape around the rods.

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2.4.5. Loosely attach the 2 x hexagonal guiding rods to the bottom of the bow holder.  

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2.4.6. Place one of the bows onto the hexagonal guiding rods.

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2.4.7. Fasten the top parts of the hexagonal guiding rods to the top bow holder, and then fasten the bottom screws. 

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2.4.8. Apply pressure to position the upper part of the bow onto the portal, and insert 6 x upper screws into the threads.

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2.4.9. Insert 6 x screws into the front part of the bow, and then fasten all 12 x screws holding the bow to the portal.

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2.4.10. After securing the front part of the bow to the portal, fasten the PhotoRobot logo tightly onto the MultiCam bow.

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2.4.11. Next, install the 2 x centering bow rods onto the bow as in the following photo examples.

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2.5 SynchroBox Installation with MultiCam & CL1300 / CL850

When assembly of the MultiCam bow is complete, locate the PhotoRobot SynchroBox and a blinder rack for installation. The PhotoRobot SynchroBox is a multi-camera hub which synchronizes the camera shutter of two or more cameras. Install the SynchroBox and the narrow blinder rack in the MultiCam portal.

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Note: For detailed instructions on the configuration and setup of the SynchroBox, refer to the PhotoRobot - SynchroBox Setup User Manual.

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3. Setup of Centerless Table Left HD Rack

On the front side of the Centerless Table, there is an HD rack with shelves in the bottom-left half of the machine frame. The HD rack houses the LaserBox, the SwitchBox, and the Control Unit. 

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3.1. HD Rack Orientation

When assembling the HD rack, install the control units in the following order from the top to bottom shelf: 

• LaserBox (top shelf), 
• SwitchBox, 
• Narrow blinder rack, 
• Control Unit, 
• Wide blinder rack with logo (bottom).

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3.2. HD Rack Devices Connection Scheme

3.2.1. To set up the devices in the HD rack, start by connecting the first lot of wires to each control unit using the following cables.

• 1 meter black power cables
• 1 meter RS232 gray cable with a Control Unit G6 (CUG6) to CL1300 / CL850 connector at the skeleton

3.2.2. Next, locate the gray motor cables, and connect them as follows.

• 1 meter Control Unit G6 (CUG6) to SwitchBox right connector
• 1 meter SwitchBox middle connector to CL1300 / CL850 connector at the skeleton
• 5 meter SwitchBox left connector for later connection to the portal connector

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3.3. Router - Power Connection Scheme

3.3.1. To connect the router if not already connected, install it with power multi sockets into the middle rack of the CL1300. If setting up the CL850, install the router with the second power multi socket into the mini-rack at the rear side of the device.

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3.3.2. Finally, connect 2 x 1-meter black power cables to the back of the router.

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4. MultiCam Camera Holders Installation

After setting up the HD rack and router, the next stage is installation of the MultiCam camera holders to the MultiCam bow.

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4.1. Installing MultiCam Camera Holders

4.1.1. Locate and unpack each package labeled MultiCam Camera Holder (code: KHMCCH). 

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4.1.2. Install the camera holders to the MultiCam bow at the desired angles.

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4.1.3. Next, locate the Manfrotto heads, and install them onto the camera holders.

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4.1.4. After installing the Manfrotto heads, uncover both stemples by unscrewing each screw on the covers.

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4.2. Left and Right Stemples - Internal Cable Routing 

4.2.1. Place the cables in the following steps into the internal parts of the stemples.

4.2.2. In the left stemple (from the front side of the Centerless Table), internally route the following cables.

• 1 x motor cable 5m, connected from the SwitchBox left connector and fastened to the portal connector
• 1 x shutter cable extension 5m connected from the CUG6 OUT port to the SynchroBox IN port (the smaller port)
• 4 x active USB extenders 10m
• 3 x black power cables 5m for the flashlights and SynchroBox
• 1 x ethernet cable 5m for the SynchroBox
• 1 x black simple USB extender for the middle laser

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4.2.3. To set up the cabling within the right stemple (from the front side of the Centerless Table), prepare the following cables.

• 3 x black power cables 5m for the flashlights
• 1 x black simple USB extender for the side laser

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4.2.4. Next, find the 2 x stemples packaged in bubble wrap and labeled Pair of Side Stemples Type H (code: KHANYTH), and unpack each.

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4.2.5. Place the stemple cover over the reinforced part of the stemple, and insert one screw through both pieces.

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4.2.6. Connect both parts to secure the stemples onto the Centerless Table.

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4.2.7. Insert and tighten all remaining screws on the stemple except for the top 4 screws (2 rows) on both of the stemples.

4.2.8. Follow the same steps on the other stemple.

4.2.9. Insert the USB active extenders into the bow, and then adjust the position of each USB active extender for each Manfrotto head. 

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4.3. Internal Routing of the Shutter Cable Extension

4.3.1. Finally, locate 4 x shutter cable extension cables in a plastic zip-bag labeled Shutter Cable RJ10 to RJ10 Extension 5m (code: KHCAR1R05).

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4.3.2. Insert the shutter cable extensions into the bow, and adjust the position of each extension for each Manfrotto head. Note: The other side of the shutter cables must connect to the SynchroBox, while the lowest Manfrotto head shutter cable connects to the SynchroBox, port 1. Meanwhile, the top Manfrotto head shutter cable connects to the SynchroBox, port 4.

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5. CL1300 / CL850 Background Holder Console Assembly

Next, there is assembly of the background holder console for the Centerless Table.

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5.1. Background Holder Console Assembly

5.1.1. Locate the background holder console, pictured below.

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5.1.2. Hook the background holder into the left and right stemples.

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5.1.3. Ensure the background holder snaps firmly into the holes. Then, loosen the locking screws with plastic heads, and insert the metal safety pin as far as possible into the stemple hole. Afterwards, tighten the locking screws with plastic heads to secure the background in place.

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5.2. Test End Switch Stop Movement

After securing the background holder console, engage the Control Unit (temporarily, as necessary), and move the portal to the top position. The end switch should stop the movement.  

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6. Flash Light Holders Assembly

After constructing the background holder, the next stage is preparing the flash light holders assembly.

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6.1. Hedgehog (Flight Lights Holders) Installation

6.1.1. Locate the box containing the plastic-wrapped flash light holders, and unpack the parts.

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6.1.2. Next, prepare the hedgehogs (flash lights holders) for assembly.

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6.2. Laser Holder Assembly

6.2.1. Locate the side laser holder (triangle), and fasten it together with the hedgehog to the right-side reinforced stemple. The order should be: stemple, followed by laser holder, and finally hedgehog.

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6.2.2. Repeat the same process on the other stemple, which is without the laser holder.

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6.2.3. Fasten both lasers and connect them to the black simple USB extenders which are already in place.

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6.3. Flash Lights Mounting

6.3.1. To mount the flash lights, unscrew the safety screws on both flash lights mounts.

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6.3.2. Next, insert the rods for mounting the flash lights, minding the logo orientation and replacing the safety screw afterwards.

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6.3.3. Mount the upper rear light holder.

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6.3.4. Loosen and remove the safety screw.

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6.3.5. Insert the rod to mount the flashlight, and replace the safety screw.

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6.3.6. Mount the bottom rear flashlight holder as in the following pictures.

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6.4. Top Light Holder Wall Boom Installation

6.4.1. Find the top light holder (wall boom) parts.

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6.4.2. Position the spacer tube the same as in the following picture.

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6.4.3. Insert the screw, and then attach the antler.

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6.4.4. Next, insert the wall boom holder.

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6.4.5. Insert the wall boom, and then fasten the weight to its end.

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6.5. Cable Connection Scheme

6.5.1. Finally, connect the remaining cables to all devices, arrange the cables in the bottom, and use cable ties to tie the cables together.

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6.5.2. Mind the router configuration (port 1 - 12 = LAN, port 13 = internet). Then, unscrew and open two upper covers over the plate guide wheels. 

6.5.3. Remember to disconnect the grounding wires.

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7. Plate Installation of CL1300 / CL850

7.1. Next, prepare to install the plate of the Centerless Table by loosening and removing one back wheel, using the following photos for guidance. 

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7.2. Locate the glass plate (1300 mm for the CL1300, or 850 mm for the CL850).

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7.3. Carefully place the glass plate onto the supportive wheels, ensuring that the notch on the glass plate faces down.

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7.4. Return and mount the removed wheel, placing it back on.

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7.5. Adjust the side wheel with rubber rings, ensuring that the rings touch the glass. Note: The correct amount of pressure will allow for holding and stopping each wheel by hand when the glass is turning.

7.6. Place back the two upper covers of the glass plate guide wheels and tighten their screws.

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8. Background Assembly of CL1300 / CL850

8.1. To construct the background assembly, locate the white background for the Centerless Table.

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8.2. Next, prepare the rubber clips for the background.

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8.3. Secure the background by clipping the rubber clips onto the background holder console.

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8.4. Move the white background to the final position, and secure it using the rubber clips.

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8.5. Return the background holders, mounting them back into place.

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8.6. Next, if assembling the CL1300, locate the side covers and unroll each. If assembling the CL850, note that the device does not have side covers, and proceed to step 8.9.

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8.7. Secure the side covers to the right and left sides of the Centerless Table.

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8.8. Insert 2 x pins into the background holder console, and screw the pins in place.

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8.9. Next, insert forks over the pins, and fasten them in position.

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8.10. Locate the blackening background and place it into the forks.

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8.11. Prepare the plastic chain which controls the blackening background.

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8.12. Position the chain onto the sprocket in the following picture.

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8.13. Now, add the weight onto the chain, and join the chain together.

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8.14. Mount the socket and bottom background flash light holder rod.

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9. Installation of MultiCam Bow Metal Covers (CL1300)

9.1. Next, if assembling the MultiCam with the CL1300, prepare the metal covers of the MultiCam bow for installation. Note: For the CL850, there are no metal covers, so proceed ahead to step 9.3.

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9.2. Place the covers between the locks, with the covers held by magnets afterwards.

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9.3. Connect the two terminals with a coupler to the shutter cable extension closest to each Manfrotto head.

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9.4. The MultiCam with Centerless Table (CL1300 / CL850) is ready for use. 

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10. First Use & Basic Testing

For further user support after installation of the MultiCam with Centerless Table, refer to PhotoRobot First Use & Basic Testing.

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11. PhotoRobot _Controls Software

The software PhotoRobot Controls App (“CAPP”) provides full control of the MultiCam with Centerless Table (CL1300 / CL850) workstation, and other PhotoRobot devices. CAPP integrates control over robots, cameras, studio lights, and post production. This includes workflow management features as well as the necessary functionality for effective automation in post-processing. 

Note: PhotoRobot Controls App software is not delivered with the device; it is a separate purchase available for download via your PhotoRobot Account. 

For support with installation and getting started, refer to Getting Started - PhotoRobot Controls. 

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Further, the software may start up in “wizard mode” after installation of CAPP. Wizard mode is a simplified user interface which enables the scanning of barcodes to identify objects and automatically start capture sequences. For more information on wizard mode, refer to PhotoRobot Controls App Wizard Mode Configuration.