The Kessler K-Pod System & Hercules Head Features & Configurations
In the video below, we take a look at the Kessler K-Pod System & Hercules Head and break down both the features and configurations of the system.
The K-Pod System and Hercules Head were initially designed as a support solution for the KC Complete Systems. However, they are now used for multiple configurations when shooting.
What makes the K-Pod unique is it's double strut legs with incremental lock pockets. The lock pockets allow you to equally position the legs while providing a lock that will not slip. The system also has a pop-lock spreader system that locks the legs in a pre-stressed position to eliminate instability in heavy load conditions, and acts as the frame system for the various dolly configurations. The weight capacity of this system is 500lbs so you can pretty much mount anything you could think of to the K-Pod.
The K-Pod also has interchangeable wheel and foot options depending on your shot requirements or configuration. It comes with standard pad feet but you can also purchase the dual locking dolly caster wheels, dual locking "all-terrain" wheels, stainless steel spikes, and swivelling track dolly trucks. There are are two different size idler arms -- the 3" and the 7". The 7" allows you to bring the dolly truck in so it can be used on standard 24" dolly track.
Before the Hercules Head, you needed to purchase a tripod head that was between $1000-$1500 if you wanted to properly support the original Kessler Crane. This just didn't make sense because in most cases, the cost of the crane was less than the cost of your tripod head. As a result, Kessler developed an affordable solution for supporting the crane. Whether used in conjunction with the K-Pod or other legs, the Hercules Head is a great way to mount sliders, cranes and jibs.
There are a few unique features of this system as well. It uses a bio glide technology for extremely smooth pan and tilt movement and spring assisted drag control for fine tune adjusting. Two other things also make the head unique. It has a weight capacity is 150lbs and you are also able to lock the tilt. By removing the lock pin from the head and placing it in the locking position, you can turn the head into a Fluid Swivel™. The head has a built-in bullseye level and a positionable handle. Like most other Kessler gear, it also comes with a Lifetime Warranty.
How to Use the K-Pod
Adjusting the height of the K-Pod is simple. Simply loosen the screws so they are out of the lock pockets and adjust the legs to the height you desire. Once you have extended the legs, tighten the screw knobs. Repeat for the other two legs. To lower, loosen the screws and lower the legs. Now to collapse the system, simply lift up on the pop-lock spreader and place in the bag.
How to Install the Hercules Head
Installing the head onto the K-Pod is very similar to how you would mount any head. Simply loosen the knob on the bottom and remove the washer. Drop the head onto the K-Pod and then if you want to lock off the head, attached the washer flat side up. If you want to be able to level the head, simply attach the washer flat side down and tighten the knob.
Configurations
There are multiple uses for the K-Pod and Hercules Head. The video above showcases some of the possible configurations you can accomplish when using the K-Pod & Hercules Head.
In the video above, we show you how to attach a slider, attach a pocket jib and attach the system to the K-Flex track. We also show how to install the seat and push bar.
When used in conjunction with a slider, you can achieve vertical moves with this setup. Simply attach the slider and ensure that the head is positioned so that when you tilt the slider, that it falls between the two legs of the K-POD.
To attach a crane/jib to the Hercules head, use two thumb screws.
The Time Capsule
In this short, I took ordinary mundane objects and crafted a story around them. The subject are the objects in a workshop. For the short, I used the K-Pod System and the Hercules Head to help tell the story.
About the film
I have always had a fascination with the history within the four walls of my dad’s garage. I remember spending late nights with him working on snowmobiles and other things as well. I didn’t spend as much time as my brother did but still hold memories in this space. As I’ve grown older, I’ve also grown much closer to my dad (although always having a good relationship) — the relationshop is now soo much stronger.
I think a lot of this has to do with the fact that I have finally grasped the importance of family. I am on the road a lot but when I am home, I spend as much time with my parents as I can. We are lucky and have a cabin where we all come together — a common place we all enjoy. Family is extremely important and it is my goal to share this with others.
When I approached the film, I was initially going to craft the story around a voice over but after assembling the piece, felt it was stronger without it. When approaching this project, I sat down with my dad and got him to walk through the objects in the garage and comment on the items that held a special place in his heart.
Following this, I worked with my mom to help craft the script as I knew she would also be able to bring a strong message to the piece.