LED display at Kowa Private Show, Japan

Immersive Projection - Image provided by Mediatec

Projection vs LED

 

Many sellers will make you believe that this is not a discussion worth having. LED is all what there is and everything else is old and old fashioned.

 

Right? Wrong!

 

Of course, there are clear, undisputed applications which require LED technology. High ambient light displays for example. Retail, foyers, theme parks, advertising. No argument.

Personally, have been so impressed with some LED displays, such as the one hanging in the Domestic Gate area at Qantas terminal Sydney, that our company will also jump onto the band wagon.

 

But not at the exclusion of all other technologies.

 

In fact, both projection and LCD have undeniable benefits in both, method of deployment and cost. Yes, cost. While LED is coming down in price, the cost of a 110” display is still way above an equivalent projection display and that at only 1.2-pixel pitch.

 

I believe that there is justification for both and we have to remove the label ‘more modern’ since for the viewer it is not here or there which technology is being used. Only image quality and legibility should count. Do count.

 

So, lets look at this objectively:

 

Let’s compare: Projection, LCD, LED Direct View, LED panel type:

 

	Projection	LCD	LED Direct View	LED Panels
Flexibility	Highly flexible, since projection sizes can be freely changed. The only limit is the projection screen.	Smaller LCD screens up to 50” are highly flexible, light weight and easy to transport.	Even housed in a fixed frame, these screens are not flexible, due the large dimensions and weight.	Since they come in smaller panels, these screens can be set-up more flexible but they take time to set-up and have limited deployment.
Set-up speed	Very high. A 220” display can be set-up within 30-45 min.	Very fast set-up. Just plug in and go. However, getting a very large screen to location may require more time.	Conceptionally fast set-up. However, the weight of the display may make is much slower to move to location and to get it ready.	Slow, since a frame needs to be built and the panels are installed one-by one. Modern screens have less cabling, but the physical set-up is still slow.
Portability	Very high, even screen to 330” and larger. Projector weight increases for units of 10K and more light output, but the portability is still very good.	Up to 50” size, easy to transport.	Difficult, since a 110” screen may weigh 134kg and a 220” screen 500+ kg.	Portability is easy, since the screen breaks down into smaller components.
Image brightness	The image brightness can be very high, but is affected by ambient light. Performs best in controlled light conditions.	A normal screen has about 300-400 nits brightness, which works well in indoor conditions. 700 and higher nits displays are suitable for window display without direct sunlight shining on to them.	Image brightness can be very high. In fact, it can be too glary if deployed incorrectly. Brightness 100-500 nits for indoor units. But it is understood that humans may find LED to appear brighter due to the spectral range. Outdoor units have a higher brightness range.	Image brightness is very high. Therefore, LED is generally found in outdoor advertising and information displays. LED panel displays are also great for large screen applications, which have high ambient light elements, such as conventions and product launches/ exhibitions.
Image quality	The image quality is very high, since several projectors can be combined. 4K and even 8K projector resolutions are available. A projected image is generally perceived of better quality due to the way the light is slightly diffused by the screen material.	Generally, very high.	At 1,2 or 1.9 pixel pitch the image quality is lower, compared to projection and LCD. This could be of concern for long viewing times and can cause eye fatigue.	Considering the usual viewing distances, the image quality appears very high to the viewer. However, the correct pixel pitch much be selected for the particular application.
Image control	The image control is very high, both in respect to colour, brightness, black level as well as physical image control in respect to warping and image correction. This is achieved through projector control, external controller and screen selection.	Limited to the build-in controls. However external controllers can expand the adjustment range.	Generally, very high. Limited to the build-in controls. However external controllers can expand the adjustment range.	Most screens are driven by external controllers. The image control is only limited by the technical capabilities of the respective panel.
Legibility	Can be very high, even at long distances.	Can be very high at correct viewing distances.	Depends on pixel pitch. A pitch, such as 1.2 or lower will provide better legibility. A to wide pitch will make viewing more tiering, since missing information must be computed by the viewers brain.	If correctly deployed the legibility can be very good. This depends on pixel pitch, content and viewing distance. A tightly spaced spreadsheet may be harder to read, then a large are image.
Colour	Colour control is extremely good and can be influenced by the projector, display technology, controllers and screen.	If correctly set-up, the colour quality will be very good.	The overall colour quality can be very good. Some viewer may find the colours to glary or over saturated.	The overall colour quality can be very good. Some viewer may find the colours to glary or over saturated.
	Colour perception is influenced by many factors, so it is difficult to generalize.	Colour perception is influenced by many factors, so it is difficult to generalize.	Colour perception is influenced by many factors, so it is difficult to generalize.	Colour perception is influenced by many factors, so it is difficult to generalize.
Cost	On a per sqm basis the cost is low.	LCD can be very cheap and be the lowest for smaller screen sizes up to 50-60” and normal brightness.	High	High
Security	Risk of theft is low, through projectors need to be secured if unattended. Installation risks are low due to the limited weight of the components.	Theft risk is higher for smaller screens, though the low value may not make it interesting. Larger screens have a greater install risk, due to the higher weight.	Low theft risk due to the weight, but installation risk can be high and positioning security is important.	If packed-up the screens have a higher theft risk. Once installed, this diminishes substantially. However, the high product weigh, adds substantial installation risk.
Power consumption	Relatively low. Low heat generation also reduces overall power requirements on A/C etc.	Generally low.	The power consumption varies, depending on deployment, image brightness and pixel pitch. There is also a higher ambient heat generation which may require additional air conditioning.	The power consumption varies, depending on deployment, image brightness and pixel pitch. There is also a higher ambient heat generation which may require additional air conditioning.

 

In summary we can that each technology has their advantages and that no technology will easily be able to fully replace another.

 

Projection is by far not dead and has as many advantages as has LED, depending on their application. Making the right decision to get the max bang for one’s buck is important and do not decide on the ‘most modern’ paradigm, which may get you the wrong technology.

 

Dec 8, 2020

 GeoBox G-116 review

The benefits of the GeoBox G116.

 

At a price of about A$2500 ex GST, the GeoBox G116 is not necessarily cheap and it seems even more so, since it only has 1 processed HDMI output.

Actually, this is not totally true, since the unit also has 1 x HDMI loop output, which mirrors the HDMI input, but more about this later.

 

So, what do you get for the price and why would you use the product?

 

The feature list includes: 

1 x HMDI 2.0, 

1x  Display Port 1.2 and 

1 x VGA input. 

 

It has a 17x17 control point for warp and Geometry alignment, increasing to over 30 points if the free-of-charge Gwarp 3 software is used. 

It has creative video wall setting with Landscape and Portrait arrangement and provides PiP/ PoP capabilities. Functions such as Image rotation and flip to 90/180 and 270 degrees are also included as are image split.

 

With an input capability of 8K/1K at 3o fps or 4K/60 4:4:4 the unit can work well within any modern display set-up. 

 

But again, what do we use such a unit for.

 

One application is simple, it can be used as a cascade unit for other GeoBox units in videowall applications, expanding the number of outputs.

G-116 is ideal to be coupled with projectors, which do not have any warping and geometric alignment features.

Furthermore, there is the PiP or PoP function, which allows the insert of a second image at any flexible position.

G-116 can also be used to control the brightness of the projector.

 

G-116 can be RS232 or IR controlled and also has TCP/IP access, integration into more complex systems is easy.

 

G-116 will able to enable a cheaper projector with warping and geometric alignment, such as keystone, pincushioning or barrel adjustments (or distortion if required). These features are usually not build-in to these type of projectors.

The unit can be used to calibrate a single projector to an immersive curved screen or even a dome.

In a gallery or museum set-up, maybe even retail, mapping onto objects can be made easy with the wider adjustment capabilities.

 

Content selection and switching is another application. It is possible to switch between the three inputs, expanding the capabilities of the projector or digital display.

 

By the way, what use does the loop output have?

 

First, we can use it as a duplicate for the HDMI input. The signal can be routed to a control monitor or another display. The Loop output further functions as the output for cascading to other units.

The loop output could be used for some creative projection set-up, whereby the screen is in between two projectors. The scalability of the processed output allows for interesting image effects.

I think the options are plentiful and once you have the unit, you will discover many usages for it.

 

 Considering all this, the price is more then reasonable in particular that this unit can be used, even after the projector or video display has been exchanged.

Using Projection Paint

Projection paint vs projection screens.

Lets face it, if you are after the best possible image quality and no possible imperfection, go for a dedicated projection screen with a projection surface selected for your particular application. More about this in another blog.

Does this means 'Projection Paint' can not give us perfect images?

No, Projection Paint can do all this as well, but since the quality depends very much on the surface preparation and the quality of the application, imperfections may be possible.

So why Projection Paint?
This is specially formulated paint, which has optical brightener included, designed to reflect the projected light. Even the dark, charcoal like, paint reflects light and works well in brightly lit rooms. In fact the dark base, absorbs ambient light and makes the image perform better, than most projection screens, often even better than ALR screens.

Creativity and artistic value. Projection paint can be applied to a multitude of surfaces. Often without primer or undercoat, even that we may suggest its use. Projection Paint can convert all sorts of spaces into a projection area, including ceilings, floors, doors, objects, etc..... Best of all, if the application changes just paint over with normal paint.

Cost: Projection Paint is cheaper per sim, than frames or motorized projection screens. a 1 ltd. bottle can cover as much as 6 sum if an undercoat is used, which reduces the absorption of the paint.

Where can I use it? Our projection paint works like a 'plastic' coating and can be applied to almost anything, such as timber, plaster, concrete, plastic, etc.. We used it on plastic bottles without any undercoat and even on fabric.

What about the performance?
Our projection paint works with any type of projector. The illumination is relatively uniform, though some hoy spotting may be observed with certain projectors, which have centre weighted illumination.

The paint can be used for single and multi-screen applications.

What about safety and clean up?
Our paint is water soluble. There are no dangerous fumes and it can easily be used in closed rooms. Cleanup is simple water.

Where is is made?
Germany

What is the brand?
HATO by Haussmann

What colours are available:
Standard is charcoal black and creamy white. Other colours can be custom manufactured.

Contactless Audio Visual Trigger

Contactless trigger solutions.

Covid-19 safety is on 'almost' everyones mind, even if not everyone practices it. Unfortunately we do not have provisions, which put masks and shields on to people automatically, but, we have technology, which can control various systems in our museums, venues and visitor centres automatically.

A recent talk with one of the AV specialists revealed the problem around touch screen technology in public display areas. Touch screens can easily be a depository of the corona and other viruses and bacteria. Some of these may even last longer on the glossy surfaces.
The only safe solution is to wipe them almost after every usage, which is something impractical in many environments.
Due to the different sizes and arrangement of these touch surfaces, it is also very difficult and costly to develop an attachment, which would wipe the surface automatically.

One solution would be to couple the touch screen with the personal phone of the user, so that they could use their own device to control the screen, but again, that is easier said than done.

So interactivity in our systems provide some challenges. But interactivity and electability is something modern, younger users demand.

It does not matter if you have a single TV screen presentation or a multi-display, immersive environment, different content, different shows may need to be shown. In our fast moving world, even if it had to be slowed down in the moment, people may not want to sit down through a lengthy presentation, as desirable as that may seem. One to 5 minutes, Youtube like clips, is what is required.

Modern media player, such as the IDAL Player 230/ 320/ 330/ 380 range make it easy to have selective content, which can be triggered individually. These players are small and compact and can easily be installed, even at the back of the display unit.

The content can be manually triggered.

But how? And how to comply with universal access regulation?

- IR-Buttons
- IR Sensors
- Sensor plates.

These are low cost devices which can easily be installed. If you need several access points, for example to cater for wheelchair access, they can be put in series, like buttons in an elevator.

Each of these devises will trigger a separate show. Non requires to be touched and the sensitivity range can be adjusted on some.

So if you have different content, you just install several of these systems and as the user waves their hand in front of the information panel, or passes through a 'gate', individual programs are started.

These devices are can be used with a multitude of players and devices, including security systems.

Immersive projection and displays and social distancing.

In the foreseeable future we have to expect social distancing rules.
Immersive display technology has by default a social distancing aspect, since the projection or display material surrounding the view, creates a type of shield. But that of course is only valid in non-contact applications.

Immersive displays can be used for a very wide range of applications.

Here are some examples:
- Relaxation during massage
- Relaxation during lengthy medical treatments
- Information immersion with products and services, such as
    Car sales, training, travel
- As medical treatment to reduce anciety and stress
- Stress relieve
- Water treatments

As said, some of these may not involve personal contact and the surrounding of images allows the participant feel connected or transported.

What is immersive display technology and how does it works?

Essentially this is not new and has been used for many years. Any classical dome and curved screen projection is immersive. The viewer or participant is surrounded by images, at least to the edge of his/her visual periphery.

Content may also be displayed above or below.

The visual content may be of either relaxing or informative nature and may even create the desire to explore.

How does it work?

We need or create an environment which allows visual content to be displayed on at least two sides. Other sides may actually be mirrored images. This depends on the subject. The environment can be an existing space, a room or a set-up of projection screens or digital displays.

Projection is ideal, because the image control is better and the visual content may not appear to be so intrusive. But there is nor reason why not LCD monitors can be used. Ultimately it is a question of budget, facility and desired outcome.

Usually the content is displayed in a wrap around panorama arrangement. But again, it is possible to have different content on different display areas. This can get as complex as one likes.

Very typical immersive environments are the Mori Digital Art Museum in Japan or the Ocean by Naked display in Yokohama, just to mention a few. While these set-up’s use up to hundres of projectors, an immersive environment may even use just one projector.   

Content can also be interactive with each other.

How expensive?

A combination of projector, screen and mirror surfaces can be relative inexpensive. In particular if relaxation is desired, whereby the room is darkened and the image not very bright. Larger spaces of course require brighter projectors as will spaces with lots of ambient light.

What about content?

Content for Immersive applications must be carefully selected. Since imagery appears 'all-around' the viewer, the content should be slow paced. Dramatic movements in video content could cause a type of motion sickness. Large scale panoramas must be of high resolution, in particular if the viewing distances are very short.

Video content should be at least 4K shot, so that it can be split across several screens.

Audio?

Normal Mono or stereo sound could be sufficient. Spatial audio can create interesting effects and may lead to viewers attention. Depending of the screen surface material audio bounce needs to be considered. For soothing audio the installation of ceiling speakers may be effective so that the audio appears non-directional.

Technical concerns?

Any immersive installation must be carefully planned. Please note that white projection surfaces may create cross reflection which can be very strong in corners, but also from wall to wall, reducing brillance. Use of black surfaces or projection paint may be a good option.

More information and consulting:

itiav.info@iti-imagegroup.com.au

Show Control - Weigl ProCommander

1.   Controlling your presentation space and your media.

2.   Adding contactless control.

 

 

We have given this article two headlines. Why?

Because the control of any presentation space, be it in theme parks, visitor centres, museums or other installation does not require a six-figure budget and that contactless control becomes a vital issue amidst the ongoing COVID-19 threat.

 

Weigl Show Control technology from Austria provides some unique solutions, packaged into small and compact systems, which are designed to withstand the rigors of heavy duty theme park applications with (normally) hundreds of triggers daily.

 

Weigl ProCommander is at the centre of these systems. A box about the size between 1 and  2 ½ cigarette packs (if you remember them), can do amazing things.

Not only can it play back your audio, it has even a small amplifier build in, so it can be used for direct monitoring.

Depending on the model, ProCommander units can control lights, curtains, other devises, projectors. You name it.

Top models, like the VX even plays back video. Not only on stream in 4K, but it can manage 2 streams in FHD.

 

At the same time these units are not that expensive. Prices are between EUR 1000 and EUR 4000 depending on the model. But this price includes the complete control centre including automated show starts and other integrated functionalities.

 

No wonder that major operators have opted for Weigl.

 

Here are the key features in summary. Differs between models.

 

Available models: ProCommander ES, AX, 3, PHX, VX, HX, LX

DMX Control

Analogue Voltage Control

RS 232, RS485 in/out

Network in/out

0-10V

Remote in/out

Servo out

12-24V powersupply

Polyphonic audio (PHX Model)

Up to 8 Stereo/ 16 mono audio out

Relais out

 

Operational extension through:

Pro I/O devices

 

Interactive control through Prism Target System

 

More information at:

www.iti-imagegroup.com.au

www.weiglcontrol.at

www.faq.weiglcontrol.com

 

Spectro projection screens

Spectro Cinema standard and 3D projection screens for events, installation and home theatre now in Australia

 

Spectro screens have been around for several years and are installed in cinemas all over the world for the last 20+ years. So why is this important for you?

 

The projected media quality is influenced by three key factors. The projector imaging technology, the projector lens and the projection screen.

 

Much attention is given to projectors and their imaging technology, be it DLP, LCD, LCOS, etc.. To a lesser extend are the lenses considered, mainly, because they are either fixed in the projector or there are few options available.

 

The projection screen is seen more as a given, with the idea that a bed cloth could do the job as well, I am joking of course, but the quality of the projection material is given often much less consideration than it deserves.

 

In the cinema and multiplex environment are more stringent standards when it comes to projection surfaces to ensure that the latest Hollywood feature looks the same all over the world.

 

So, a manufacturer, who succeeds in this environment must have something special. Right?

 

So, who is Spectro?

Spectro is a South Korean based manufacturer, who specializes in the production of cinema standard 2D and 3D projection surfaces. The company is located on the outskirts of Seoul and has a highly dedicated team which knows how to deal with international demands.

In addition to the surface material, Spectro manufactures roll-down screen systems to large sizes and offers frame-based installation systems.

 

What does the product do?

Spectro surfaces are designed for optimal performance, both in perforated and non-perforated form. Different to other surface manufacturer Spectro offers three perforation standards: SP (Standard Perforation1.2mm), DP (Digital Perforation 0.8mm) and MP (Mini Perforation 0.6mm)

 

Surface materials include: White incl. Gray, Matt White and White 100 (2D only), Pearl (2D only), Silver (2D & 3D), Prima Silver (2D & 3D), Rear with gain factors between 0.9 and 3.0.

 

Where do we use Spectro surfaces?

Apart from the stated cinema application, Spectro surfaces are equally suited for large scale events to high standard home theatres. While 3D is currently not that much in demand, using the Prima Silver surface can make any screening future proof, since this material is ideally suited for both 2D and 3D with good gain factors for optimal illumination.

 

Spectro is also one of the very few manufacturer who manufacture 3D roll-down screens.

 

Spectro surfaces are welded prior to coating, allowing a seamless manufacture of large surface areas. Coated surfaces offer improved performance of 3D PVC materials

 

So what of this matters to you?

First, being a South Korean manufacturer, Spectro screens are covered by the FTA between Australia and South Korea and do not attract any duty, making the product less expensive.

 

Secondly, even larger screens only need short seafreight shipping times, allowing shorter ordering times.

 

Thirdly, the product is available in surface only, surface with eyelets, frame based, press-studs and roll-down, offering a high level of flexibility.

 

Fourth, the company has a proven track record and performs well in one of the most critical domestic market.

 

Fifth, the company manufactured in 2009 the world’s largest permanent 35mm Cinema 3D silver screen of 32x13m and recorded in the Guinness Book.

 

Sixth, production of Korea’s largest IMAX 3D screen in 2015. Screen size 25x18m.

 

Seventh, short production times of approx.. 7 days in average.

 

Eighth, Spectro has fireproof certificates from each country.

 

Ninth, Spectro surfaces can be used on existing screen frames. Though the required tensioning may only be achieved, using a eyelet-bungee loop attachments.

 

Tenth, Korean manufacturer have a high ethical standard and are leading in technologies around the world.

 

ITI-Image Group has been appointed agent for Australia, New Zealand, Oceania and for its existing Asian client base. In fact, we have imported last month a 5m roll-down 3D screen for an installation in Uluru. The screen was manufactured and dispatched on time, despite corona virus restrictions and received without problems by our client.

 

For more information:

Itiav.info@iti-imagegroup.com.au

www.spectro.co.kr

Absence of colour

We see our world in colour. Most people at least. Colour is all around us. Colour can clutter things and may make us miss important details. Remove the colour and we focus on the essentials. Black and White movies have given us a great insight into this phenomenan. So I am creating a series of short videos in B&W. Here is the first one.

Korea Travel #1

Korea is a very unappreciated country when it comes to travel. Chinese and Japanese like to go for shopping or Korean BBQ. But the country has not really been discovered by the Western tourist.

Language can be an issue, in particular if you travel outside Seoul or Busan.
But young children start to learn English now and many students and teenagers will at least understand. They may just be a bit shy trying to speak to you.

Yes, the people may be less patient with foreigners in comparison to Japanese people, but overall it is no problem getting around and a nice, sincere smile can get you very far.

Travel is fast and easy and relatively inexpensive and renting a car is no problem. In general driving is a great deal less stressful, than in many other Asian countries.

The omnipresent high rise buildings, even in smaller country towns can draw attention away from the rich history and the natural beauty this country has to offer.

Korea can look bleak in winter, unless there is a great snow cover. But once spring and the cherry blossoms come, the country starts to shine. Yes, you read right, Korea has an abundance of cherry blossoms, but is not as much known for it, as Japan.
In the North East are great mountain hikes and the plenty of islands in the south offer great bathing opprotunities.

I will post a number of short videos providing an overview about this great country.

Italy 1

Currently we only hear about Italy only in conjunction with the Corona Virus and how many people have died.
This is really unfortunate.

Unfortunate of course for all the people who lost their lifes, their relatives, the grandchildren who lost their grandparents, etc..

It is sad, in particuar, since I got to know the Italian people as warm hearted and friendly and the country is so utmost beautiful.

So I decided, that I will create a few audio visual programs from the visual material I have in my archive.

Nothing longer, than 1-2 min, so easy to watch.

Maybe, this can inspire you to visit Italy once the travel bans are lifted.

Enjoy.

eye relaxation

Sitting at home while spring is outside? Or sitting at home while outside is the best autnum weather...

dreaming of flowers, meadows, holiday?

Just start this video...close your eyes until you hear the audio and enjoy and relax for a minute or two.

Beware of infection

With the world in VOVID19 crisis much has been written about social distancing and the risk of spreading infection. 

We also know now, that not only elderly or people with pre existing conditions can die, but also younger people. We feel invinciple when we are younger, but we are not really. 

Also are you sure that you are not having a pre-existing condition which may weaken your immune systems? 

A normal cold, a small infection, anything, inclusing poor eating habits, lack of sleep, timezone spanning travel (even within your own country), all can weaken your immune system. 
You may not really know it or brush a little bit of being unwell aside, but you may actually at risk.

And even if you are not, your hand, which touches an infected surface, may inadvertently spread the virus to another surface, which is then touched by someone elses grandmother or father, who may fall sick and may even die.

Above some examples, where the virus may lurk. 
We know that it can survive up to 72 hours on metal. So what about the handles at busses, railings at stations? ATM machines or traffic light call buttons.

There are literally thousands of contact points we get in touch with every day.

So think about it.

Don't touch your face when you are out and about.
Wash your hands, ideally with soap, since soap destroys the virus and just be careful.
Stay safe and healthy.

Mori Digital Art Museum

There is one installtion which needs to go on to the 100 thinhs you need to see before....., bucket list.

The Mori Digital Art Museum in Japan. Actually, not really a museum. More like a theme park with entertainment, activity, interactivity and immersion.

With more than 400 projectors. Blending by VNS Geobox and creative input by the visitors....not to be missed.
If you have a change to go, fly to or via Tokyo, take the day, you will not regret it.
The site can be reached in less then one hour from Haneda Airport.

Projection over wall recess

Projection over posts or wall recesses.

This is a common problem and caused by the different projection distance. How to solve it?

Hardware solution and software solution?
Content solution?

In this case, the client selected a content solution whereby the larger part of the content has been masked off in software. However, this resulted in the loss of some image areas, but essentially not a problem in this case.

A similar solution can be achieved by using the VNS GeoBox 800ex series and overlaying a b&w mask which is created on Photoshop or so and then simply imported into the controller.

Another solution could be the use of software based blending and warping software. In this case however, the vertical image area may have to be compressed in the larger areas, which could lead to undesirable distortions.

There is solution, but one has to be aware, that it may not always be ideal.