Shotoku USA to debut SoftRail system at NAB 2025

Shotoku USA, the North American division of Shotoku Broadcast Systems, is set to showcase its SoftRail software-defined rail system at NAB Show 2025, marking its first appearance at a major US trade show. This system combines the structured path-following capabilities of a physical rail system with the unrestricted movement of a free-roaming pedestal, offering studios flexibility. SoftRail will take centre stage at the Shotoku USA booth, where attendees can experience its cutting-edge functionality alongside new enhancements to the TR-XT control system.

Shotoku, a global leader in high-quality robotic and manual camera support systems, will also spotlight AutoFrame, its advanced face-tracking technology that enables seamless shot recall in robotic camera systems.

SoftRail introduces an approach to studio operations by eliminating the constraints of physical floor tracks. This allows for limitless software-defined paths while keeping the studio floor clear of obstructions for presenters, guests and other cameras. Available as a feature within Shotoku’s TR-XT studio control panel, SoftRail integrates the key benefits of rail systems into the company’s SmartPed fully robotic XY pedestal—without the need for physical tracks. When not required, SoftRail can be deactivated, allowing SmartPed to return to its traditional free-roaming mode.

The TR-XT’s enhanced StudioView mode gives operators the tools to create custom ‘soft’ rails suited for any live production. Once activated, SmartPed behaves as though mounted on physical rails, moving smoothly along the pre-defined paths. Operators can control movement along the rail using a simple XY joystick, while the system maintains perfect framing. Stored shots can be recalled with precision, and since the rails exist only in software, they can form complex, otherwise impossible configurations, including loops and overlapping paths.

SoftRail supports unlimited path storage and recall, allowing multiple SmartPeds to operate on separate or shared rails—all easily managed through the TR-XT system.

Matt Servis, Robotic Support Specialist for Shotoku USA, said: “Rail camera systems built into sets follow every arc and contour of a set beautifully, but they seriously inhibit creativity in future productions and could cause an obstruction to personnel and guests. We developed SoftRail to provide an alternative that brings unparalleled flexibility, allowing access to both free-roaming pedestals and a rail system – all in one.”

In addition to SoftRail, Shotoku will highlight advancements in AutoFrame, its face tracking and shot recall technology. AutoFrame enhances production autonomy while ensuring seamless human intervention when needed, offering broadcasters an innovative solution for robotic camera control.

AutoFrame enables live TV broadcasters to expand their use of robotics without compromising production quality or increasing costs. It uses sophisticated face tracking algorithms, fine-tuned for responsive and precise shot recall. The technology can integrate directly into Shotoku’s TR-XT Control System or function independently, working with other Shotoku controllers or existing TR-XT setups. With minimal setup required, AutoFrame operates automatically and can be initiated by an automation system without human input. The system instantly pauses if an operator takes control, allowing manual adjustments before resuming tracking.

Servis added: “We responded to customers’ requests for automated framing and developed AutoFrame which offers the highest level of autonomy possible. Face tracking is pointless if the system needs a dedicated operator. So we’ve expanded the capacity for the number of multiple channels simultaneously tracked (now 10 and counting!) as well as intelligently defining and maintaining the desired framing, including live zoom adjustments.”

AutoFrame is already in daily use at top broadcasters worldwide, proving its reliability and efficiency in high-pressure live news environments.

Stand N339