Projection mapping, similar to video mapping and spatial augmented reality, is a projection technique used to turn objects, often irregularly shaped, into display surfaces for video projection. The objects may be complex industrial landscapes, such as buildings, small indoor objects, or theatrical stages. +more
History
Although the term "projection mapping" is relatively new, the technique dates back to the late 1960s, where it was referred to as the Madame Leota effect, video mapping, spatial augmented reality, or shader lamps. One of the first public displays of projections onto 3D objects debuted in 1969, when Disneyland opened their Haunted Mansion attraction, which featured singing three-dimensional busts. +more
The next record of projection mapping is from 1980, when installation artist Michael Naimark filmed people interacting with objects in a living room and then projected it in the room, creating illusions as if the people interacting with the objects were really there.
In 1984 the Stephen Sondheim original Broadway production of Sunday in the Park With George, written and directed by James LaPine, was the first known use of projection mapping in a Broadway musical or play. It was used at the end of Act II, in the Chromolume #7 special effects sequence designed by Bran Ferren to project geometrically-correct moving cinematic images onto the surface of the 4' diameter sphere topping the Chromolume device. +more
The first time the concept of projection mapping was investigated academically was at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in the late 1990s, where a team led by Ramesh Raskar worked on a project called Office of the Future, to connect offices in different locations by projecting people into an office space as if they were really there. By 2001, more artists began using projection mapping in artwork, and groups such as Microsoft began experimenting with it as a means of technological advancement.
Methods
After the object which will be projected on is chosen or created, software is used to map the corners of the video to the surfaces. First, one must choose the images or video to project. +more
In 3D mapping, coordinates are defined for where the object is placed in relation to the projector. The projector's XYZ orientation, position, and lens specification result in a determined virtual scene.
Adjustments are commonly made by manually adjusting either the physical or virtual scene for best results. Large projectors with 20,000 lumens output or greater are used for large-scale projections such as on city skyscrapers. +more
Video mapping software can be used in projects like these, though Adobe Photoshop, Adobe After Effects and other packages can also be used by creative artists. Extensible open-source software frameworks are also available.
Projection mapping can be separated into four categories:
* VJ'ing or VeeJay-ing (video Jockeying), where live events are augmented by (often interactive to music) projections which are fully dynamic, controlled live, and consist of pre-programmed videos and combinations of effects and effect overlays * Theatrical, where projections are preset and scenes are cued on demand, usually in a set order, in conjunction with dance or onstage performance, often interactive * Static/Interactive, where a display is set up and loops or interacts with the environment and viewers via programming * Video, where a generally long, non-interactive, segmented show is presented as a single fluid video that plays from beginning to end
Productions, advertisement and art
Projection mapping first came to prominence through guerrilla advertising campaigns and video jockeys for electronic musicians. Large companies such as Nokia, Samsung, Unilever Pakistan, Pakistan Tobacco company, Bank Alfalah, Brighto Paints, Benson & Hedges, John Players Gold Leaf and BMW have since used video projections in marketing campaigns in cities across the world, commonly using mapping techniques to project scenes onto the sides of buildings. +more
It is also being used in technology such as [url=http://www. ikonix. +more
The use of projection mapping in TV and films is becoming more popular. For the sci-fi film Oblivion (2013), the directors used projection mapping to create an immersive environment. +more
In the electronic dance music (EDM) community, it is becoming increasingly common for DJs to accompany their music with synced visuals, which can be either prepecorded or played live by a Video Jockey (VJ). Though normal projection screens are commonly used, some visual artists create special 3D installations to project onto. +more
Artists may use it as an avant garde form of expression as it is new technology that can turn their creative ideas into 3D projections, connecting with audiences in a new way. Video projections have appeared in urban centres such as New York City and London, where artists have used guerilla projections in public without any necessary approval. +more
Projection mapping is frequently used by Walt Disney Imagineering and Walt Disney Creative Entertainment in the Disney Parks. Examples include The Magic, the Memories and You, Disney Dreams!, Celebrate the Magic, Once Upon a Time, Disneyland Forever, Halloween Screams, +more
When Paul Oakenfold became the first DJ to perform live at Stonehenge, projection mapping was used to transform the prehistoric monument into a spectacular light show. To avoid damage to the ancient stones, only 50 of Oakenfold's close friends were invited, and were required to wear noise-cancelling headphones to hear the music above the nearby A303 road.
Activism
Projection mapping has also been used as a way to highlight political and social causes by groups such as Greenpeace and Led By Donkeys. The White Cliffs of Dover are frequently used to project messages of protest, support and memorials.
Augmented reality
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