Harrogate based specialist automation company, Automation 4 Limited, were selected to provide technology for Kevin Keegan’s Soccer Circus at Xscape in Glasgow. Automation 4 Limited won the six-figure contract against global competition, providing long-term work for its engineers both in Harrogate and Glasgow.



Soccer Circus is the world’s first interactive football attraction where visitors of all abilities can enjoy the excitement of a series of football skill challenges based on those practiced by the top professionals at the very peak of our national game. A visit to the attraction culminates in Powerplay, an amazing and immersive game played in a stadium-like atmosphere offering every member of the team a chance to experience what it’s like to play as a top professional in the big game. For more information on Soccer Circus visit www.soccercircus.com.

Automation 4 Limited were involved in the design, manufacture and installation of technology that delivers the attraction, controlling lighting, target movement, audio and visual systems. Equipment was built and tested in Harrogate prior to being installed and commissioned in Glasgow by Automation 4 engineers.



Automation 4 Limted [Previously G.A. Control Systems Limited] was started by Managing Director, Tim Groves in 2004, specialising in unique control systems. “Having been in the industrial automation industry for 12 years I identified a need for specialist solutions rather than off the shelf packages. The Soccer Circus project required many technologies to be brought together to form a unique system. “

Managing Director of Soccer Circus, Clive Mockford, was very specific in his exacting requirements. “The integration of a number of technologies to deliver an attraction that operates for seven days of the week and fifty two weeks of the year required technological partners who could deliver and maintain systems to high standards. We have been delighted with the quality of the work that Automation 4 have undertaken and the high level of support.”

Automation 4 Limited thrives on being able to provide exactly what our customers require, using state-of-the-art technology. Our reputation for excellence in design, manufacture, service and customer support continues to grow.



The systems that Automation 4 provided for the project involved a wide variety of technologies including multi-axis servo drive control systems, soft PLC systems, DMX show lighting control, Medialon show and media control systems and high specification projection systems and TFT screens.

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Application of Servo to reduce product changeover and increase cut length accuracy

Automation 4 Limited were asked to increase the speed of changeover of product length for a manufacturer of Filter Products. We were also asked to increase the accuracy of cut length. The result would be an increase in profit margin due to reduced downtime and the elimination of further processes to accurately cut the product.



We firstly analysed the process using computer modelling. Selected the correct size and most suited servo equipment including gearbox and coupling. We then discussed with the operators the User Interface requirements and selected the most suited HMI. We then worked with them to provide them with an easy to use informative user interface.



We installed the complete system over a 24hr period. They are now enjoying the benefits of increased production and expect a payback period of less then 12 months.

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Application of Servo to increase quality of film production

Automation 4 Limited were asked to apply servos to two existing rolls used in the manufacturing process of film. This was to include all mechanical works and fully integrate the system into an existing AB Control Logix and Panel View system. The result would allow their R&D team to analyse the effect of adding/subtracting torque on the quality of the film.



We firstly selected the best suited servo equipment for the application. Then produced mechanical 3D models of our proposed assembly to ensure all aspects were understood before it was fabricated. We then carried out a site survey before we put together a method statement of how we intended to integrate into the existing AB Control Logix system.



The installation process including all mechanical and electrical works was carried out over a 3 day period. The results so far show a positive influence on the process which should result in an increased quality of film

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