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November 28, 2005
"SURROUNDED" (Final Project update)
SURROUNDED: Interactive installation of a column of projected light
"Surrounded" is a site specific interactive installation that explores the integration of virtual elements generated by the computer within the physical space. The projection surface becomes and object and an extention of the architectural space. Interactive animations of abstract imagery are projected on a column made of spandex fabric. The projected column has the same dimensions of the floor columns. The column is sensitive to the presence of visitors. The projected imagery resembles celular structures that appear to float inside the column. As the visitors get close to the column, the structures rise to the top and become alive. If the users leave the space, the particles disperse and die.
KEYWORDS
Installation, site specific, code, augmentation, generative, architecture, organic, particles.
BACKGROUND
A couple of years ago I started to explore the use of projections as an extention of space and as a source of light (www.villarrealstudio.com) I had explored the use of multiple screens to create the sense of immersion. In the case of "Surrounded" the piece is not longer immersive. The projection becomes an object, an architectonical elemment that is surrounded and affected by visitors. The virtual column is immersed in the space and the visitors become satelites of the piece.
AUDIENCE: Visitors of a gallery
USER SCENARIO
Each visitor approaching the column activates a sensor, and depending of his position, an image rise from the bottom of the projected column. As the visitor moves around the column, new images apprear on the screen and layers of new structures are created. The 8 ultrasonic sensors define 8 sensitive areas around the column. The distance between the users and the column determines the vertical position of the images and their motion patterns. The amount of sensors triggered determines the amount of celular structures on the screen and their activity level.
IMPLEMENTATION
8 ultrasonic sensors track the position of the visitors around to the column. The sensors are connected to a I-CubeX sytem that outputs MIDI data. An application build in Macromedia Director (or Processing) generates abstract imagery based on the MIDI input. An USB/MIDI interface is used to send the MIDI signals to the computer. The MIDIio Xtra is installed to allow Director to receive MIDI data.
REQUIREMENTS
Hardware: 1 LCD projector, computer, VGA cable, MIDI cable, USB cable, I-CubeX System, 8 ultrasonic sensors and wires, USB/MIDI interface.
Software: Macromedia Director or Processing, MIDIio Xtra or ProMidi library, I-CubeX Editor.
Installation: 1 spandex fabric cylinder, wood base, circular frames, other hardware.
* All the requirements will be provided by me, except of the computer and projector. However, I may provide a projector and laptop if it is extremely required.
Posted by Villarreal, Sandra at November 28, 2005 01:50 AM