iSi VIC-Gimbal Operating instructions
Page 2 of 18 VIC-Gimbal V1 © isi-sys GmbH 2023 Rev.: 2023/10/23
Contents
1. SAFETY AND OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS ...........................................................3
1.1. INTENDED USE ...................................................................................................4
1.2. GENERAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS..............................................................................5
1.3. TRANSPORT AND STORAGE ....................................................................................5
1.4. INSTALLATION ....................................................................................................5
1.5. OPERATION .......................................................................................................5
1.6. MAINTENANCE...................................................................................................6
2. VIC-GIMBAL.........................................................................................................7
2.1. TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION.......................................................................................7
3. GETTING STARTED...............................................................................................9
3.1. EXEMPLARY SETUP...............................................................................................9
3.2. SOFTWARE SETUP AND REQUIREMENTS..................................................................10
3.3. CONNECTING THE VIC-GIMBAL............................................................................10
3.4. PERFORMING A CALIBRATION ROUTINE...................................................................11
4. TECHNICAL DATA...............................................................................................12
4.1. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS .................................................................................12
5. CONFORMANCE, MALFUNCTION AND WARRANTY..........................................13
Page 3 of 18 VIC-Gimbal V1 © isi-sys GmbH 2023 Rev.: 2023/10/23
1. Safety and Operation Instructions
•Before the system’s initial operation, read the operating instructions
carefully and pay particular attention to the safety instructions. These
contain important information for your protection.
•Save these documents together with the technical brochures and
accessories for later reference.
•These operating instructions are to be regarded as part of the device. If the
device is sold or passed on, the operating instructions are to be included.
•Do not make any changes, additions, or conversions to the device without
isi-sys approval.
If you have any problems, please contact the manufacturer of the system:
isi-sys GmbH
Wasserweg 8, 34131 Kassel, Germany
Phone: +49-561-7397980
Internet: http://www.isi-sys.com
Email: info@isi-sys.com
Symbols and Level of Warning Messages:
CAUTION!
Indicates a potentially imminent danger. If not avoided, could result in minor injuries.
NOTICE!
Indicates all situation which, if not avoided, can result in property damage.
Definition: The parts from isi-sys GmbH, such as electronics and actuators are called “units” or
“devices”.
Page 4 of 18 VIC-Gimbal V1 © isi-sys GmbH 2023 Rev.: 2023/10/23
1.1. Intended Use
Any use of the product other than that described in the “Intended Use” section does not qualify as
the intended use.
The VIC-Gimbal is used for calibration purposes for digital image correlation systems (DIC) in com-
bination with image acquisition software Vic-Snap from correlated solutions. The scope of delivery
includes the VIC-Gimbal itself, a magnetic base, and a USB-C cable for connection with a Lap-
top/Desktop PC or a power supply. The information in the operating instructions, in particular the
safety instructions and permitted operating ranges, must be observed, and obey at every phase of
the product’s life. Any other or additional use is considered not as intended use and is misuse of
the device.
The device may only be used by qualified and instructed persons after reading
the user manual and safety instructions!
Only use original parts from isi-sys GmbH. isi-sys GmbH does not give any warranty for damages or
malfunction caused by additional parts not supplied by isi-sys GmbH. Additional cables or
connectors will change the calibration and other specified data. This can change the specified
properties of the units and cause them to malfunction. Refer all services to qualified service from
isi-sys.
Intended use also includes:
•Make sure there is enough space for the VIC-Gimbal to move freely.
•Do not use accessories other than the ones provided.
•Plug in the connectors of cables completely so that it cannot loosen inadvertently.
•Leave sufficient space around the plugs so that it can be unplugged easily in case of
emergency.
•Only work with the devices in a clean and dry environment! Only specially prepared devices
can work under other conditions!
•Do not place heavy objects on any cables (e.g. power cords, sensor cables, actuator cables,
optical cables).
Immediately unplug your unit and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the
following conditions:
•When the cords or plugs are damaged
•If any liquid, fluid or water has been spilled or objects have fallen onto the devices
•If the device has been exposed to rain or water
•If the device does not work as described in the manual
The requirements for the environmental conditions for operation must comply with the technical
specifications in section 4.1
Page 5 of 18 VIC-Gimbal V1 © isi-sys GmbH 2023 Rev.: 2023/10/23
1.2. General safety instructions
CAUTION!
Danger of injury and damage to the product due to rain, splashing water, moisture and dust.
According to the standard IEC / EN 60529 the system is protection code IP20. If water or moisture
gets into the device, internal short circuits can occur, which will destroy the device. These can lead
to fire or malfunction of the device.
•Protect the system from rain, splash water, moisture, direct sun light, and dust in every life
phase of the product!
•Use the system indoors only!
1.3. Transport and Storage
Pack the system shockproof and waterproof for transport. Also keep to the ambient temperatures
for storage and transport regarding the technical specifications 4.1
1.4. Installation
•Please note the maximum operating limits of thesystem units from the technical
specifications.
•Please note the required environmental conditions for the components from
the technical specifications.
•Only work with the units in a clean and dry environment! Only specially prepared
units can work under other conditions!
•Leave enough space around the power connector for easy unplugging in case of
emergency.
1.5. Operation
•Never use a VIC-Gimbal unattended.
•Always disconnect the VIC-Gimbal if it is not in use or in operation.
•In the case of overthrowing, falling down and/or jarring heavily a VIC-Gimbal has
to be checked by isi-sys for damages
CAUTION!
Be careful not to let your fingers get caught between the moving parts when the device is powered.
Page 6 of 18 VIC-Gimbal V1 © isi-sys GmbH 2023 Rev.: 2023/10/23
1.6. Maintenance
NOTICE!
All maintenance or repair work, in particular the opening of the device and the adjustments, are to
be done only by trained and qualified specialists of the manufacturer isi-sys GmbH, who are aware
of the dangers involved.
In case of malfunctioning or damaged system components, please contact us directly as the
manufacturer.
isi-sys GmbH
Wasserweg 8, 34131 Kassel, Germany
Phone: +49-561-7397980
Internet: http://www.isi-sys.com
Email: info@isi-sys.com
Page 7 of 18 VIC-Gimbal V1 © isi-sys GmbH 2023 Rev.: 2023/10/23
2. VIC-Gimbal
VIC-Gimbal is designed for automated calibration of VIC-3D systems. The calibration procedure of
VIC can be done easily moving the targets manually. However, for small field of view where man-
ual positioning of the targets and the influence of motion blurring becomes difficult. VIC-Gimbal
for automated calibration of VIC-3D systems via USB or WiFi in combination with Vic-Snap or the
Vic-Snap App, which is especially useful for non-reachable areas such as climatic chambers.
2.1. Technical description
The VIC-Gimbal is connected via USB-C (12) for power supply and communication with VIC-Snap.
Another option to control the VIC-Gimbal with VIC-Snap is using a WiFi connection. It can be
mounted directly to a tripod using a M6 or ¼” screw (1,2). The magnetic base can be used to mount
to metal surfaces. Calibration targets are fixed on the elevation arm (6) by squeezing them with the
target clamp (3). The target clamp can be shifted in a way that the outer corner of the calibration
target does align with the corresponding markings notch (5). This ensures that the center point of
the calibration target surface, where is the least amount of movement, can be placed on the optical
axis.
Do not tighten the handle screw (12) to much to avoid damaging the calibration
targets
1. 1/4” Thread
◦Can be used to mount the VIC-Gimbal on to a tripod
2. M6 Thread
◦Can be used to mount the VIC-Gimbal on to a tripod or the magnetic food.
Page 8 of 18 VIC-Gimbal V1 © isi-sys GmbH 2023 Rev.: 2023/10/23
3. Target Clamp
◦Slidable do adapt the VIC-Gimbal to different calibration target sizes
◦Used to fix the calibration targets
4. Screw for Endposition
◦Are limiting the rotation of the azimuthal arm to prevent damaging the VIC-Gimbal
5. Target position marking notches
◦Do indicate the position of the outer corner of the calibration targets.
6. Elevation arm
◦Rotates the calibration target around the elevation axis
7. Azimuthal arm
◦Rotates the calibration target around the azimuth axis
8. WiFi Led (Blue)
◦Indicates WiFi connection status:
▪On: Connected
▪Off: Disconnected
▪Blinking: Trying to connect
9. Power LED (Green)
◦Indicates VIC-Gimbal Status
▪On: VIC-Gimbal is powered up
10. Error LED (Red)
◦Indicates if an error occurred
▪Blinking: Fatal error occurred
▪On: Non-fatal error occurred
▪Off: No error occurred
11. Handle Screw
◦Used to squeeze a calibration target between the target clamp and the elevation arm
12. USB-C
◦Power supply
◦Communication with VIC-Snap
Page 9 of 18 VIC-Gimbal V1 © isi-sys GmbH 2023 Rev.: 2023/10/23
3. Getting Started
There are two modes of operation: 1) Power supply and communication via USB connection or 2)
power supply only via USB and communication via WiFi connection. In both cases, the VIC gimbal
must first be configured in Vic-Snap via USB connection. After configuration, it is possible to operate
the VIC-Gimbal remotely with an external power supply for example a power bank, a USB-Power-
Supply or any other standard USB port and control it via WiFi connection using VIC Snap or the VIC
Snap App.
Ensure that the USB port you are using is matching the electrical specifications 4.1.
For installation and operation note and obey the safety instructions in section 1!
3.1. Exemplary setup
The image below shows an exemplary setup scheme for the VIC-Gimbal calibration.
Page 10 of 18 VIC-Gimbal V1 © isi-sys GmbH 2023 Rev.: 2023/10/23
3.2. Software Setup and Requirements
The VIC-Gimbal is intended to be used in combination with Vic-Snap. Make sure you have an
appropriate version installed. You can check your version and build number by clicking “help →
about” in the upper menu bar.
For the VIC-Gimbal you will need to install an additional USB-Driver.
http://www.isi-sys.com/download/VIC-Gimbal/CP210x_Windows_Drivers.zip
3.3. Connecting the VIC-Gimbal
The VIC-Gimbal provides two options to connect to VIC-Snap: USB and WiFi. To configure the WiFi
connection, please follow the steps below.
3.3.1. USB Connection
1. Make sure you performed the steps described above correctly
2. Plugin the USB-C cable to the VIC-Gimbal and the Laptop or Desktop PC
3. Open VIC-Snap
4. In VIC-Snap right click on “Capture” in the upper menu bar and select “Gimbal”. The VIC-
Gimbal-Control dialog will appear in the side bar on the left.
◦When VIC-Gimbal is successfully connected, the corresponding COM port is displayed at
the bottom left.
◦
3.3.2. WiFi Connection
Please check if you VIC-Snap Version supports the WiFi option. If you have any questions please
contact our customer support. The configuration via USB in step 3.3.1 is required for the successful
setup of the WiFi connection.
The VIC-Gimbals WiFi-settings can be configured by clicking the gear-button at the bottom of the
VIC-Gimbal-Control in the sidebar on the left and navigating to “Configure Wi-Fi”.
VIC-Gimbal-Control Dialog
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1. Enter SSID, password and accept
2. Disconnect the VIC-Gimbal and connect it to another power source as required. From
now on, the VIC-Gimbal will automatically try to connect to the previously configured
Wi-Fi.
3. Ensure the VIC-Gimbal connected successfully by checking the blue WiFi LED (8), see
technical description 2.1.
4. Restart VIC-Snap and ensure the IP-address of the VIC-Gimbal is now shown in the
sidebar instead of the COM-port.
3.4. Performing a calibration Routine
1. Connect the VIC-Gimbal (USB or WiFi).
2. Use the sliders for azimuth and elevation angles to estimate the Depth of Field (DOF).
Note: The DOF of the setup depends on many factors. We recommend a minimum angle of
± 10° in each tilt direction.
3. Click the gear button to setup the calibration sequence.
4. Set appropriate angles and press “Accept”.
5. In the sidebar control panel press “Calibration Sequence”.
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4. Technical data
4.1. Technical Specifications
Model
VIC-Gimbal
Version
V1-T2-7EU
V1-T3-7US
Weight
250g (350g incl. magnetic base)
Interfaces
USB (USB-C) and WiFi
Target sizes
Standard clamp for
EU targets with 2 to 7 mm
grid spacing
Standard clamp for
US targets with 3 to 7 mm grid
spacing
Rotation angle
Max. ±50° with min. step size: 0.09°
Mounting
M6 or ¼“threads; optional: magnetic base adapter attachable
via a M6 thread, rubber coated, base Ø = 88mm
Material
Polyamid PA12 (Nylon)
Operation temperature
-5 °C to 40 °C
Storage temperature
-15 °C to 80 °C
Stall torque
Max. 0.52 Nm
Operating voltage
5V
Max. power consumption
1A/ 5W
Protection class
IP20
Dimensions
148,5 x 120 x 38 mm
Page 13 of 18 VIC-Gimbal V1 © isi-sys GmbH 2023 Rev.: 2023/10/23
5. Conformance, Malfunction and Warranty
In case of malfunctioning or damaged system components, please contact us
directly as the manufacturer. After consulting the manufacturer, please return the
damaged device with the entire accessories.
All maintenance or repair work, in particular the opening of the device and the
adjustments, are to be done only by trained and qualified specialists of the
manufacturer isi-sys GmbH, who are aware of the dangers involved.
The warranty period for isi-sys components (excluding consumable items) is 1 year after delivery.
The warranty expires in case of improper treatment or improper interventions (such as opening of
the casings, etc.).
We reserve the right to modify the hardware and software delivered in relation to the manual.
Please contact us in case of doubts and inconsistencies.
isi-sys GmbH
Wasserweg 8, 34131 Kassel, Germany
Phone: +49-561-7397980
Internet: http://www.isi-sys.com
Email: info@isi-sys.com
EU/EC -Declaration of Conformity
The evaluation procedures for the products described in and delivered with this document were
performed in the sense of:
•Machinery DIRECTIVE 2006/42/EC
•EMC DIRECTIVE 2014/30/EU
•RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU
The manufacture isi-sys GmbH confirms, that the products, described in this document and
delivered with this document, are in compliance with the general requirements and other relevant
regulations of the relevant EU/EC-directives.
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