If you were to write a list of applications for compressed air, movie theaters would likely be far from your thoughts. However, compressors are needed to create an ULTRA 4DX experience. This new cinema format combines motion seats with different environmental effects, so that the audience feel like they are immersed in the film’s events.
Showtime Cinemas, a leading Taiwan-based movie theater chain, is using oil-free scroll compressors from Atlas Copco to create this effect.
“During the 4DX experience, the system mixes air with special scents for the audience,” explains Jill Chang, Sales Engineer for Atlas Copco Taiwan. “Since people are breathing it in directly, top-notch air quality is a must to keep the environment perfectly safe.”
No problem. Atlas Copco’s oil-free compressors provide consistent levels of oil-free air in applications as diverse as food and beverage production, pharmaceutical manufacturing and electronics.
Oil-free scroll compressors, like this SF8+ from Atlas Copco, are used in applications that rely on clean and consistent airflows.
Compact yet highly efficient
On top of air quality, there were other needs to be considered. Most cinemas in Taiwan are in prime downtown areas or commercial high-rises, where space is at a premium. The compressors were customized for Showtime’s needs with a compact design integrating the scroll compressor and the dryer into one single unit, which reduced the overall footprint of the machine.
“In terms of performance, because we shortened the airflow path, this eliminates complex piping and cuts down on pressure drop. But the most important part is the space saving and the super-compact footprint that uses the minimum amount of floor space to create the maximum efficiency,” says Jill Chang.
Advanced system control and energy efficiency also meant the solution could deliver massive energy savings.
Solving customer challenges
“What makes this case interesting is that the application is unusual, but the need behind it is recognizable: clean and efficient compressed air in a reliable, compact system. That is where value is created,” says Karen Mariën, Technology Leader Sandbox in Atlas Copco Group’s Industrial Air division.
“To us, innovation is never only about technology, but about seeing and solving a customer challenge that doesn't quite fit the standard solution,” she explains.
“The mindset is: Understand the real problem, challenge existing assumptions, and keep looking for better solutions. As systems become smarter and more connected, we'll continue to discover and support applications in places where you might not expect them.”
Customized perfection
Meanwhile, the successful application at Showtime’s flagship cinema in Taipei will be followed by Atlas Copco’s oil-free air technology being rolled out to three other 4DX screens in Taichung, Kaohsiung and Taipei.
“The customized set-up works perfectly and we're now bringing it to the other key theaters,” says Jill. “Whether it's the drifting snow, scent-infused air or simulated storms – every single effect is precisely executed by our compressed air solution.”
