LiveSpark FirePixel User manual

!! Patented (#8,823,714)!
Multiple patents pending
LiveSpark, Inc.!
3564 Greenwood Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90066
Flame Effect System

LiveSpark, Inc. •telephone: [phone] •email: [email protected] • www.livesparkfire.com

LiveSpark FirePixel & Controller
Installation & Troubleshooting Guide v5.0 - 2018
Table&of&Contents&
Safety Information 2
Introduction 3
System Components 4!
Description of Components 6!
System Diagram 8
Fuel Requirements 9
Operating Pressure 9!
Fuel Consumption 10
Hardware Setup Instructions 10!
FirePixel Operation 14!
LiveSpark Controller Feature Summary 16!
DMX Control 16!
MIDI Control 17!
Ethernet Control via Ableton Live 17!
Stage3D Setup Instructions 19!
Frequently Asked Questions 25!
Troubleshooting 29
Plumbing Diagram 31
!
!1

Important&Safety&Information&
The$FirePixel$+lame$effect$is$designed$for$operation$by$experienced$special$effect$professionals$
only.$$It$is$required$that$installers$and$operators$follow$all$local$codes,$laws$and$regulations$and$
consult$with$relevant$local$authorities$having$jurisdiction$before$use$in$any$private$or$public$
environment.$$Possible$codes$and$standards$that$may$apply$in$your$jurisdiction$of$use$include$
NFPA$160,$“Standard$for$Flame$Effects$Before$an$Audience,”$NFPA$58,$“Liqui+ied$Petroleum$Gas$
Code,”$or$others.$$$
Prior$to$installation$or$use,$carefully$consult$the$LiveSpark$Flame$Effect$and$Operation$Document$
for$details$that$will$aid$in$obtaining$operating$permits$in$your$area.$
!
!2

LiveSpark FirePixel & Controller
Installation & Troubleshooting Guide v5.0 - 2018
Introduction&
Congratulations on purchasing your new LiveSpark flame effect system. This guide will introduce you to its
safe operation, the FirePixel’s and AfterBurner’s unique features, and provide pointers on how you can get
the most out of your system for your installations, stage shows, and other productions.
Together, the FirePixel, AfterBurner and LiveSpark Controller offer a flame effect system unlike any other,
delivering visualization capabilities in fire previously only found in the world of lighting. FirePixels produce a
highly luminous, smoke-free, soot-free, wind-resistant flame that can be integrated, synchronized, and
digitally controlled into any theatrical performance.
The FirePixel offers precision-level control over flame height: ranging from a one-inch candle up to a 4 foot
flame. The AfterBurner extends the FirePixel’s flame height capabilities up to 12 feet. The FirePixel and
Controller are compliant with NFPA 160 and have been permitted for use in many jurisdictions and
circumstances. The system offers an array of features to ensure performer and audience safety, including
relight, flame sensing, water and obstruction detection, auto-calibration, a physical shutoff/ignition key, and
three layers of emergency stop protection.
!
!3

!
System&Components&
The following items are not included with LiveSpark systems but may be necessary for your
applications.
-Propane gas canisters
-DMX / MIDI cables
-Lighting controller
-MIDI controller
-Computer
Component
Purpose
FirePixel
Variable height flame effect
AfterBurner
Flame effect accessory that boosts FirePixel’s flame output
Controller
Powers and controls flame effect devices
Cable
Delivers power and data to FirePixels, AfterBurners & Controller
Regulator
Regulates propane fuel to usable pressure
Fuel Hose
LPG-rated hose that conducts propane vapor from source to destination
Accumulator
Propane fuel tank that supplies high peak vapor flow rates
FirePixel Clamp
Attaches FirePixel to U-bracket and supports up to two AfterBurners
Power Supply
Powers longer chains of devices where additional power is needed
!
!4

LiveSpark FirePixel & Controller
Installation & Troubleshooting Guide v5.0 - 2018
Photos&of&typical&equipment&included&in&a&
LiveSpark&system&
!!
LiveSpark Controller
!
!
LiveSpark Cable
!
!5

Description&of&Components&
1. FirePixel Flame Effect: Propane-fueled, self-igniting, auto-calibrating flame effects that produce a
highly luminous, virtually smoke-free, soot-free and wind resistant flame. The FirePixel’s low
latency flame reactivity and variable flame height can deliver a wide range of visual effects.
The FirePixel is a specialized flame effect that receives data from the LiveSpark Controller and
creates a single column of flame, up to 4 feet in height. Up to twenty-five LiveSpark FirePixels can
be daisy-chained together (up to 127 with external power), from the Controller via the LiveSpark
Cable, to create a visualization performance.
Fuel is supplied from any propane gas canister (not included) with a compatible “disposable
propane adapter”, through Propane Fuel Regulators, and is ignited when signaled. It is also
possible to fuel FirePixels via a hose and manifold system. The FirePixel offers several key features
to support special effects applications and performances:
•Fuel Efficiency: The FirePixel burns fuel at an efficient rate with a maximum fuel flow rate
of 15 LPM at full flame height.
•Auto-Calibration: The FirePixel automatically calibrates the height of the flame based on the
wind conditions and relights if it blows out.!
•Rapid Response: The FirePixel responds quickly to commands (eg. ignite, adjust flame
height, extinguish) — within 6 milliseconds.!
!!!
FirePixel
!!
Propane Fuel Regulator
!
!6

LiveSpark FirePixel & Controller
Installation & Troubleshooting Guide v5.0 - 2018
•Monitor & Control: The FirePixel can be controlled and monitored in conjunction with the
LiveSpark Controller and Stage3D iPad app, indicating ignition, water condition, physical
obstruction on the burner, and network connectivity issues.!
2. Stage 3D: A complete visual rendering and monitoring software app that visualizes the expected
behavior of a FirePixel installation. The 3D environment presents a virtual stage to the user,
allowing you to accurately position and identify each FirePixel in your performance system.
The address and real-time status of each FirePixel is displayed in 3D against the backdrop of any
user-created photo. Nominal performance visualization are represented graphically as 3D blocks,
or fire particle system simulation.
Any FirePixel error condition that may occur such as Failure to Ignite, Water Condition,
Obstruction is highlighted graphically and textually on the display as it occurs. Visual error
indication lets you quickly spot which FirePixel is having a problem, so easily identify where to
direct attention.!
3. LiveSpark Controller: The Controller is a 2U 19” rack mount equipment powered by a standard
110VAC connection. FirePixels may be directly powered and controlled by the LiveSpark
Controller.
The LiveSpark Controller also accept inputs from other industry standard performance control
systems such as DMX light boards, midi devices, and music production software such as Ableton
Live.
!
The LiveSpark Controller communicates with and receives status from each FirePixel via a
dedicated bi-directional command protocol. To further increase safety, the Controller features four
levels of shutoff including nominal operation off button, data key lock, operator presence control,
and an emergency stop (E-Stop) switch.
The 3-pin DMX port accepts signals from any standard DMX interface such as a light board or
DMX console.
The Midi port accepts signals from any standard Midi interface such as a Midi controller,
keyboard, drum trigger, drum machine, touch pad, wind controller, Midi guitar, etc.
An Ethernet port accepts control commands from any external network broadcaster, such as the
Ableton Live FirePixel plugin provided by LiveSpark. Additional application plugins to extend the
range of authoring environments is planned for future release by LiveSpark and partners.
!
!7

System&Diagram&

!
!8

LiveSpark FirePixel & Controller
Installation & Troubleshooting Guide v5.0 - 2018
Fuel&Requirements&
FirePixels are compatible with propane fuel only. Propane may be delivered to the FirePixel from any UL,
CSA or other certified storage tank. Propane supplied may contain some portion of butane and up to 5%
propylene, per the ASTM’s and GPA’s HD-5 standard. Most US suppliers provide HD-5 propane under the
name “propane,” which is compatible with FirePixels.
FirePixels are not compatible with natural gas, methane, pure butane or any other flammable or non-
flammable fuel. FirePixels are not compatible with any liquid fuel. Using a non-compatible fuel may
damage FirePixels and void their warranty. Propane must be fully vaporized prior to conveyance into the
FirePixel fuel inlet. Do not supply FirePixels from a propane tank designed to distribute propane in liquid
form, such as tanks with bottom- or side-outlet valves. Do not supply additional fuel to the FirePixel flame
output.
Operating&Pressure&
FirePixels are designed to operate with propane fuel regulated to a pressure of 30PSI +/- 3PSI at the fuel
inlet. It is important to use an appropriate regulator that can deliver fuel at the correct operating pressure.
A +/- 3PSI variation of pressure inlet pressure is acceptable.
WARNING! Exceeding regulated fuel supply pressure above 30PSI may cause fuel to leak and damage FirePixel hardware. never
SET REGULATED PRESSURE TO exceed 30PSI.
FirePixels are factory-calibrated to operate at 30PSI. Exceeding this pressure may cause the FirePixels internal valve to leak and
create a dangerous condition. Supplying FirePixels with fuel at pressures below 30PSI is also not recommended. FirePixels
operated at lower pressures may fail to ignite, may not create desirable flame perceptual effects, and may release small amounts
of uncombusted fuel to the atmosphere due to repeated attempts to ignite, though the FirePixel will enter the Locked state if
ignition fails repeatedly (see Stage3D documentation for monitoring errors).
Because propane cools as it expands from its liquid pressure (120PSI at 72F) to its vaporized usage pressure, it is possible for
the output pressure of the propane supply tank to fall below 30PSI. During this condition FirePixels should be extinguished and
!
!9

no further fuel should be supplied until a suitable operating pressure can be obtained, either after absorbing sufficient heat from
the atmosphere, via a propane heating or vaporization system certified for such use, or by replacing the fuel supply.
Fuel&Consumption&
The maximum fuel flow rate at 30 PSI of a FirePixel at maximum flame value is 15 LPM. Fuel
consumption at maximum setting is 1 G per hour. Setting the FirePixel to lower average flame heights will
consume considerably less fuel, especially if flame height is varied. In common practice, a FirePixel
varying its height continuously should be expected to perform for 1-2 hours on a 1LB LPGas cylinder.
FirePixel&Setup&Instructions&
** NOTE: The LiveSpark FirePixel and Controller must be installed and operated by experienced and
licensed professionals only. Improper installation or operation of flame effects can result in property
damage, physical injury, or death. Follow all local codes and ordinances.
!"#$%&&'("'%'#)($%*&+'&,-%.,"'
Identify the location of the LiveSpark FirePixels per your stage or environment requirements. Exercise
caution when installing LiveSpark FirePixels – consult the Flame Effect Compliance and Operation
document for minimum distances to flammable and other materials. Refer to mounting instructions if
mounting the LiveSpark FirePixels to truss, pipe or other fixtures.
/,)"."0'
FirePixels and AfterBurners may be mounted with LiveSpark’s clamping system. The LiveSpark Clamp
supports the FirePixel, attaches to a standard lighting U-Bracket, and allows attachment of up to two
AfterBurners.
!
!10

LiveSpark FirePixel & Controller
Installation & Troubleshooting Guide v5.0 - 2018
!
!11

FirePixels are designed to be perform optimally at angles of up to 45° from vertical. In still air environments
the FirePixel may be mounted as low as horizontally, but no lower. Even though a FirePixel may appear to
operate acceptably at lower angles, air currents or convection may direct flame into the FirePixel, causing
overheating or other damage to burner components or wiring and is not recommended.
!
!12

LiveSpark FirePixel & Controller
Installation & Troubleshooting Guide v5.0 - 2018
!
Recommended Mounting Angle
1)+&'2,""+-.,"!
1.Attach a regulated propane supply to each FirePixel set for 30PSI.
!
!
!
3&+-$4(-%&'2,""+-.,"'
The LiveSpark Cable contains a total of four 18awg conductors consisting of 2 conductors for power and 2
for data. FirePixels operate at 24VDC and consume a maximum of 8W each. The power supply included in
the LiveSpark Controller is capable of supplying up to 12 FirePixels directly. Additional FirePixels may be
powered by attaching external power supplies.
Each FirePixel base has two circular connectors, one female, and one male. The male connector is the one
with male contacts, and is the data transmitter. The female connector is the one with female contacts, and
is the data receiver.
!
!13

Be sure to plan your FirePixel system layout so that each output connects to the next FirePixel’s input,
forming a daisy chain pattern. The order of connection is important, since that is the order in which your
FirePixels will be numerically addressed.
The LiveSpark Controller’s FirePixel input and output connectors are of the same type as the FirePixel itself.
1. Connect the male connector of the LiveSpark cable to the female connector at the bottom of the
first FirePixel in your FirePixel daisy chain. Ensure the connection is properly fastened by
aligning the connector notches and applying even pressure on both connectors until they fit
together. Connect the other side of the cable to the LiveSpark Controller’s adapter cable.
2. Continue the connections by daisy-chaining another LiveSpark Cable to the next FirePixel in
your device chain. Repeat this step for all remaining FirePixels. Attach no more than 12
FirePixels directly to the Controller power supply (if more FirePixels are to be used in a single
chain, external power is required).!
3. The final FirePixel in the daisy chain should be connected to the Controller. The male connector
on the FirePixel sends its output via the adapter cable to the Controller. This connection is
important so the Controller can receive the number of FirePixels as well as any errors they may
transmit along the chain. The flame effect system will not operate properly without this return
connection from the final FirePixel in the chain to the Controller,
2,""+-$'2,"$4,&&+4'5,6+4'%"7'8--+##,4(+#'
To complete the set up of the LiveSpark Controller, connect its power cord and accessories.
1. Connect the Controller power cord to a standard 110VAC outlet and turn on the power
switch on the rear panel. The LED light located at the front of the Controller will illuminate
to indicate the unit is powered on. In about 30 seconds, the Controller is ready for use
when the IGNITE button illuminates.
2. Attach the Wi-Fi antenna (optionally included on some Controllers) on to the Wi-Fi mounting
screw on the rear panel of the Controller
3. If using a compatible Operator Presence Control (OPC) device such as a dead-man switch,
attach it to the OPC XLR connection on the rear panel of the Controller.
*** NOTE: If not using an Operator Presence Control device, you must then attach the
provided OPC Bypass to the XLR socket. FirePixel power flows through the OPC XLR
connector via pins 2 & 3. Without this connection your FirePixels will not operate.
4. Insert the key (provided) into the key lock switch on the front panel of the Controller.
!
!14

LiveSpark FirePixel & Controller
Installation & Troubleshooting Guide v5.0 - 2018
AfterBurner&&
"#$!%&'$()*(+$(!,-!.!/,($0,1$2!.33$--4(5!'#.'!3($.'$-!.!6.(,.72$8#$,9#'!:2.;$!*<!'4!=>!&$$'!'.22?!%+!
%&'$()*(+$(!,-!,+'$+@$@!'4!4<$(.'$!4+25!.-!.+!.''.3#;$+'!'4!.!/,($0,1$2A!*-,+9!'#$!B,6$C<.(D!E2.;<?!F.3#!
%&'$()*(+$(!,-!;.+.9$@!75!,'-!G<.($+'H!/,($0,1$2?!"#$!/,($0,1$2!;*-'!7$!2,'A!.+@!.'!2$.-'!#.6$!.!:2.;$!
#$,9#'!6.2*$!4&!=I!4(!9($.'$(!,+!4(@$(!&4(!'#$!%&'$()*(+$(!'4!:,($?!"#$!E4+'(422$(!;.5!-$+@!34;;.+@-!'4!
'#$!%&'$()*(+$(A!7*'!,'!,-!'#$!<.($+'!/,($0,1$2!'#.'!@$3,@$-!,&!:2.;$!34+@,',4+-!.($!J,'#,+!.33$<'.72$!2,;,'-!
'4!.224J!'#$!%&'$()*(+$(!'4!($2$.-$!&*$2!'4!'#$!.';4-<#$($?!
9+$):'!"#$4)-.,"#'
1. Attach the AfterBurner to a parent FirePixel using the two side screws provided on the
FirePixel Clamp.
2. Attach a regulated propane set to 60PSI.
3. Attach a LiveSpark Cable from the parent FirePixel’s output (male) connector to the
AfterBurner’s input connector (female).
4. Attach a LiveSpark Cable from the AfterBurner to the next FirePixel in the daisy-chain.
FirePixel&Operation&
!0"(.,"'
K+3$!'#$!B,6$C<.(D!-5-'$;!,-!<(4<$(25!34+:,9*($@!.+@!.22!243.2!34@$-!.+@!($L*,($;$+'-!#.6$!7$$+!;$'A!
,9+,'$!'#$!/,($0,1$2-!75!&4224J,+9!'#,-!<(43$@*($?!
1. Power on the LiveSpark Controller and wait until the Ignite switch is illuminated.
2. Be sure a compatible Operator Presence Control (dead-man switch) or the provided OPC
Bypass is connected.
3. Insert the Controller key and twist it to the Unlock position.
4. Flip the E-Stop switch cover up.
5. Turn the E-Stop switch to the UP / ON position.
!
!15

6. Press the IGNITE button.
THIS WILL CAUSE THE CONNECTED CHAIN OF FIREPIXELS TO IGNITE.
Extinguishing Flames
IN AN EMERGENCY Flip the E-Stop switch DOWN / OFF.
To turn flames off in a non-emergency situation, press the OFF button on the Controller.
You may also turn the flames off by twisting the key lock switch to the LOCK position or by disconnecting / deactivating an
attached Operator Presence Control.
FirePixels operate using “Normally Closed” valves, which stops the flow of fuel to the burner when power is disconnected.
Automatic Calibration
After powering up and ignition the FirePixels begin automatic calibration which takes 2-10 seconds in
normal conditions. During calibration flame heights will vary based on factory settings and operating
environmental conditions. FirePixels should reach their minimum flame height in 2-10 seconds at which
point they can be turned off by pressing the OFF button. Calibration is retained as long as the FirePixels
are powered.
1(4+5(;+&'<+=,'
After you have installed your hardware and configured Stage3D, you can test the FirePixels using the on-
board Demo.
*** Note: The on-board demo is a pre-programmed flame sequence that demonstrates some of the unique
features of the FirePixel flame effect.
1.Follow the ignition procedure above to ignite the connected FirePixel chain.
2.To play the demo, press the DEMO button.
3.During or after the demo you can press and hold the MAX button to set all connected FirePixels to
their maximum flame height.
!
!16

LiveSpark FirePixel & Controller
Installation & Troubleshooting Guide v5.0 - 2018
LiveSpark&Controller&Feature&Summary&
DMX&Control&
Any standard DMX equipment such as a DMX light board, console, or other device that complies with the
DMX protocol may be used with the LiveSpark Controller to author and control a FirePixel flame
performance.
Action
Function
Steps
Power On
Boots up the LiveSpark
Controller and FirePixels into
a Standby state.
1. Connect LiveSpark Controller Power Adapter to the Controller!
2. Lift E-Stop switch cover!
3. Flip Ignition Switch into the ON position!
4. Wait 30 seconds for LED light to indicate Controller is in Standby
Power Off
Cut off power to LiveSpark
Controller and FirePixels
1. Flip E-Stop to OFF position or!
2. Turn off Controller or!
3. De-activate Operator Presence Controller
Ignite FirePixels
Ignites FirePixels, calibrates
to minimum flame height,
FirePixels ready to receive
data.
1. Ensure the LiveSpark Controller is powered on.!
2. Turn Key Lock Switch into the Unlock position.
3. Ensure OPC or OPC Bypass is connected.
4. Wait for IGNITE button to illuminate.
5. Press the IGNITE button.
6. Wait 10-30 seconds to complete calibration (minimum flame
height)
Off Button
Extinguishes all flame on
FirePixel. Locks functionality
to other buttons on the
Controller
1. Press the OFF button. FirePixels extinguish.
Play / Stop
Demo Mode
Initializes onboard demo
sequence
1. Ignite FirePixels
2. Press the PLAY button. Ensure it is lit!
3. Demo plays for 2-3 minutes or until Demo button is pressed again
Max
Overrides existing DMX /
MIDI / Ethernet data stream
and raises flame height to
100%
1. Press and hold the MAX button to set all FirePixels to 100%!
2. Release the blast button to return flame to 0% or previous control
state.
!
!17

A single DMX channel controls one FirePixel. If an AfterBurner is attached, the DMX channel directly
following the parent FirePixel controls the AfterBurner. If two AfterBurners are attached, two DMX channels
following the parent FirePixel control each of the attached AfterBurners.
The first DMX channel in the connected DMX Universe controls the first FirePixel in the chain, the second
channel controls the second FirePixel and so on. To change the DMX start address of the FirePixel chain,
enter the Controller configuration web page and set the start address parameter.
1. Connect the DMX device’s output to the DMX input (5-pin XLR) connection on the rear panel of
the LiveSpark Controller using a DMX cable and 5-pin to 3-pin adapter if necessary (not
provided). Do not connect your DMX device to the Controller’s OPC Bypass XLR input, which
may cause damage by applying power to the device.
2. Follow the ignition procedure above to ignite the connected FirePixel chain.
3. Operate your DMX device to control the flame heights of the connected FirePixel chain.
4. When finished press the OFF button on the Controller or follow the appropriate procedure in the
“Extinguishing Flames” section above.
MIDI&Control&
Any standard MIDI device such as a Midi controller, keyboard, drum trigger, drum machine, touch pad,
wind controller, MIDI guitar, or other MIDI -compatible interface may be used with the LiveSpark Controller
to author and control a FirePixel flame performance.
Because the MIDI protocol has a narrower communication bandwidth, it is recommended that no more than
6 FirePixel values be continuously modified at one time. For faster control, use the Ethernet port as
described in the “Ethernet Control” section below.
One MIDI pitch corresponds to the address of one FirePixel, starting with MIDI not zero, which in MIDI
terminology is commonly referred to as C-2 (the note ‘C’ 2 octaves below middle ‘C’). The MIDI velocity
controls flame height. The MIDI velocity range is 0-127: so a velocity of 0 produces a minimum flame
height, a velocity of 64 produces a medium flame height and a velocity of 127 produces a maximum flame
height.
Playing a MIDI note C-2 at a velocity of 64 sets the first FirePixel in the chain to a middle flame height.
Ethernet&Control&via&Ableton&Live&
!
!18

LiveSpark FirePixel & Controller
Installation & Troubleshooting Guide v5.0 - 2018
Because FirePixels are capable of a high dynamic range of flame heights that can each be rapidly
addressed, you can create incredibly rich visual experiences with this system. To author these
performances, a system capable of precise timing, synchronization with music, and powerful sequencing,
looping and triggering features is essential. Ableton Live provides such an authoring environment, and
LiveSpark offers a Live plugin to easily transmit this data to the LiveSpark Controller via Ethernet.
>+?)(4+=+"$#'
Live is a music production studio software produced by Ableton and available online at: www.ableton.com.
To control FirePixels using this software, Max 6 must also be installed, and is available from:
www.cycling74.com. Follow instructions accompanying Ableton Live 9 Suite and Max 6 to correctly install,
authorize and configure these packages on your computer. Both software packages are available for Mac OS
and Windows operating systems.
5&)0("'!"#$%&&%.,"'
Once Ableton Live 9 Suite and Max 6 are installed and configured, download the LiveSpark Plugin for
Ableton Live from:
www.livesparkfire.com/downloads
Drag and drop the firepixelableton.amxd into the MIDI instruments section of any Live MIDI track. This
enables your MIDI track to send data to the LiveSpark Controller and control your FirePixel chain.
For a demonstration of how to author rich performances using Live, download a FirePixel demonstration
Live project from:!
www.livesparkfire.com/downloads
Similar to MIDI control (see “MIDI Control” section of this Guide), note C-2 in the Live MIDI track
corresponds to the first FirePixel in your connected FirePixel chain. Each MIDI note and its associated
velocity tells a FirePixel how high to adjust its flame and for how long.
The overall Gain may be adjusted by dragging up or down on the Gain knob in the FirePixel plugin pane,
and this adjustment can be recorded and automated just like any other Live Automated Parameter.
A FirePixel simulation is also displayed to show the flame heights your Live project will create as it plays.
Many other Ableton Live features may be used in conjunction with your FirePixel system and are beyond the
!
!19