If you have ever seen a video online of a stage collapsing or an LED wall wobbling back and forth before its collapse, you can imagine the danger that an improper rigging can have to an audience. Proper rigging is paramount in live events for several reasons. The safety of everyone involved is the top priority. Poorly rigged equipment can pose significant risks, including structural failures, falling objects, and injury to personnel or attendees. LED walls are often the focal point of visual presentations. Proper rigging ensures that these screens are positioned at optimal viewing angles for the audience, maximizing the impact of the visual content. LED walls are valuable investments, and improper rigging can damage them. Secure rigging minimizes the risk of accidental damage and ensures the longevity of the equipment.
Mounting Methods
Have you ever seen an LED wall in such a wild configuration or floating somewhere you would have never expected? With a little creativity and knowledge of the various mounting and rigging styles, that too could be something you try in your own space. LED displays can be installed using various methods. Suspended LED displays, commonly seen in stage setups, are suspended from rigging systems, with LED panels hung from stage trusses. Wall-mounted LED displays are affixed to frames mounted on walls, providing seamless integration into any environment. Ground-stacked LED displays involve stacking panels on the ground with additional stabilizers or ladder-style frames to support the weight and facilitate access to higher panels.
Ground-Supported
Ground-supported installation is a versatile method suitable for various applications, including events, concerts, trade shows, and temporary setups. LED panels are stacked together on the ground, supported by a specially designed framework. Ladder-style frames can be used to secure the panels and provide access to higher levels when needed. Ground-supported displays are often employed when portability and ease of assembly and disassembly are key factors. Common applications include outdoor events, trade shows, or even temporary installations such as presentations or conferences.
Flown Method
The flown method involves suspending LED panels from a rigging system or truss structure. This mounting technique is commonly used in concert stages, large-scale events, and venues where a high vantage point is desired. The rigging system is designed to bear the LED panels’ weight. Rigging allows for flexibility in positioning the LED panels at various heights and angles, creating captivating visual displays for audiences. Common applications include live events such as concerts, corporate events, or even theatrical applications. Sports arenas and stadium screens are typically LED as well.
Wall Mounted
Wall-mounted LED displays offer a permanent and visually appealing solution for fixed installations. LED panels are mounted on a frame securely attached to a wall. This method is popular in commercial spaces, control rooms, retail environments, and architectural applications where the LED panels need to blend seamlessly with the surroundings. Wall-mounted displays can provide front access to serviceable parts, making maintenance tasks such as cable replacement more convenient. Common applications include digital signage, educational spaces, and rooms where space is limited.
Rigging for LED Walls
When it comes to rigging LED walls, several key considerations come into play such as amount of space available, function, maintenance, and visual effect on the space. When you are first thinking of how a LED wall will integrate into a space you will need to think of just that… space. Ground supported walls take more floor area than flown or wall mounted LED. However, flown walls need rigging points to hang from and wall mounted solutions need walls with space for them. If you are expecting frequently having to move your wall or setting up in many different configurations than Ground stack or flown would be the most practical. Portability requirements are closely tied to the ease of assembly, and disassembly. Ensuring that you have a way to service the wall is essential. All THOR: AV Series of LED panels are both front and rear serviceable so no matter how you mount the wall you will be able to access all needed parts and cables should the need arise. Visually you have a desired effect that you would like to accomplish with the LED volume. Ground-supported displays offer flexibility in creating unique configurations, while flown displays can deliver dynamic visuals from above. Wall-mounted displays provide a sleek and integrated appearance. This aesthetic should also be considered when looking at what rigging best suits you.
Tips and Tricks
Safety is a non-negotiable in rigging, safety information is included in our user guide. Load distribution must be carefully planned to prevent overloading at any single point. Planning the layout or footprint of your wall before building will help make sure that you are building in the correct spot or even see problem areas in advance. Beyond this you can also test your system before rigging to ensure everything functions as desired. When rigging, ensure that the supports are level. This will help panels lock together seamlessly. Clear communication and coordination among all parties are essential to ensure a smooth and safe rigging process.
As you embark on your LED panel mounting endeavors, remember to follow installation best practices, plan the layout meticulously, ensure structural support, and thoroughly test the system before finalizing the setup. These practices will contribute to a successful and visually stunning LED display experience.