A NOVEL DESIGN FOR AN AUTOMATED, MODULAR STAGE

Abstract

This project seeks to design one possible solution to the issue of accessibility on theatrical stages, as well as the issue of limited design configurations. This report goes through multiple iterations to discover the best materials from which to construct a functional automated platform for the stage. An emphasis is placed on ensuring that the platforms can tilt to form an ADA-accessible ramp from the ground to the stage. Safety factors are also emphasized, considering the machine must lift human payloads and therefore must be designed to these standards. The suggested technology, a linearly actuated Stewart Platform, is not currently used in the theater world, and this concept could open up many new possibilities for designers as well as accessibility.