Academy to honour ARRIMAX Innovators

20 January 2009

USA - ARRI reports that Erwin Melzner, Volker Schumacher and Timo Müller have been chosen to receive one of the most prestigious honours in the film industry, a Scientific and Engineering Award from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) for the development of the ARRIMAX 18/12 HMI.

Not since 2004 has an AMPAS Scientific and Technical award been given for advancement in lighting equipment. Also known as the Sci Tech Oscars, the presentation will take place at the Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills, Calif. on 7 February 2009. This marks the 15th Scientific and Technical Award for ARRI and the first towards one of the company's lighting products.

The ARRIMAX combines the variable beam spread of a Fresnel and the light output of a PAR, and uses a reflector concept for beam control that eliminates the need for spread lenses. AMPAS notes, "With its choice of vari-focus and specular reflectors, the superior optical and mechanical design of this lighting fixture allows it to operate at 18,000 watts, producing unsurpassed light quality while its innovative cooling system keeps the housing safe to touch."

Since its appearance in the market, the ARRIMAX has already proven itself as a popular and versatile tool for feature films, commercials and television.

(Jim Evans)