Lights, camera, robots! Shotoku unveils Swoop cranes to automate broadcast studios

Shotoku Broadcast Systems has unveiled its new Swoop robotic crane line at IBC2025, designed to replace manually operated cranes and jibs in studio environments. The launch represents a significant advancement in studio robotics, offering broadcasters enhanced creative possibilities and operational flexibility while integrating seamlessly with existing robotic camera systems.

What you should know: The Swoop line launches with two models featuring different boom arm reaches and base options to match various production needs.

• Swoop 140 offers a 140 cm (4’7″) boom arm reach, while Swoop 220 extends to 220 cm (7’3″).
• Both versions can be configured with either a SmartPed robotic base (Swoop SP) for complete studio floor movement or a manual base for cost-effective repositioning between shots.
• The cranes integrate with Shotoku’s TR-XT advanced control system and use a specially configured TG-47 robotic pan/tilt head.

Why this matters: Traditional manually operated cranes require one or two dedicated operators and cannot integrate tightly with robotic camera systems, limiting creative possibilities and operational efficiency.

• Swoop enables production directors to create and precisely repeat sweeping shots with confidence while expanding available camera angles beyond what advanced robotic pedestals can achieve.
• The system addresses the growing demand for automated studio solutions that reduce personnel requirements while maintaining creative control.

Safety features: Shotoku designed the system with comprehensive safety measures to prevent accidents in busy studio environments.

• Multiple intelligent proximity detectors create a dynamic protective “bubble” along the arm’s length and around the payload.
• The system automatically detects obstacles, stops movement, and prevents collisions.
• A single button switches Swoop into Local mode for repositioning, with an available safety locking bar to secure the arm when needed.

What they’re saying: “Swoop represents a major step forward in studio robotics combining creativity, control, and safety in one elegantly engineered system,” explained James Eddershaw, managing director at Shotoku Broadcast Systems.

• “The crane enables broadcasters to reach new heights and, dare I say it, new lows by expanding creative possibilities while enhancing operational flexibility.”

Technical integration: The TR-XT control system provides comprehensive crane management within existing studio workflows.

• StudioView display shows Swoop’s location relative to other cameras for coordinated operations.
• The SoftRail system allows Swoop SP models to follow tightly defined paths, ensuring precise and consistent floor movement.
• Integration capabilities enable the crane to function as part of a complete robotic camera ecosystem rather than as a standalone tool.