Immersive, Training,Exhibition - Screenline solutions, designed with Epson

 

Immersive Training Room. Square or Pentagonal. By Screenline. Designed with Epson.

 

Projection and Projection surfaces

Projection surfaces seem to be a mute subject to talk about. A simple, ideally ironed, bed-cloth would suffice as a projection surface, right? If I can project onto any wall, floor, ceiling, regardless of design, material or colour, why do I need a dedicated projection surface, right?

Well, lets create an analagy. 

You can mount 4 wheels to a board and roll down a hill. If you attach the wheels on to an axel and mount the axle moveable you can even steer. But you would certainly not get into city traffic with the contraption or win a car race.

Projection surfaces are similar. With a bedcloth I can get a rudimentary result.  But it is not optimal and will neither reflect the capabilities of your projector or the quality of your content.

Projection surfaces are made of different materials, colours, consistencies and come even in opaque or transparent, white or dark and everything in between, so that you can have an all-rounder, which works everywhere, but maybe not optimal, of you can have surfaces (screen-materials), which give you the best performance.

In the following series we will review different materials for rental and staging, corporate, home, retail, exhibition, special effect use. We will try to keep it simple and not add to many diagrams. Yes, we may show you how the colour performance may be and why that matters, how the viewing angle is and why that can be critical and how the material performs on not so ideal environments.

Some of the first distinctions we will have to make is the difference between foldable and roll down material. PVC based and fabric or fibreglass. Acrylic foil or sheet and projection paint.

Finally we will talk about cleaning and service.

This is a comprehensive program. Not to tax you to much and take up of your valuable time, we will break this down into small junks. It is like eating. Consuming smaller quantities keep you healthy and slim.

So I hope you will stay with us and get to know your projection surface and be able to create a better screening experience.

 

The challenge to create cost effective and impactful digital displays and audio visuals.

 Budgets, apart from really prestigious projects, are always tight and every cent spend on a retail, museums, gallery and visitor centre installation must be well considered. 

What are the key elements in creating a cost effective 'show' for your viewers?

A good story:

Look for the story, not the product”. Everything has a story to tell. Regardless if we sell toothpaste or a designer dress, a new electronic gadget or a big truck. There is a story behind it.

If you are a museum, national park, visitor centre, you have already a good story. The trick is to tell it well.

Make it engaging? Make it fit the mindset of your audience, not the mindset of the curator, designer, administrator or sales person.

Ofthen less is more and simple can have more impact.

This applies to everything, the audio, visual and technology side.


Viewer engagement.

Engage your viewers. Make them part of the story. This does not neccessarily require wizz-bang interactivity and augmented reality. Sure these aspects can help, but they can be costly and not always be reliable, in particular if you don't have dedicated staff.

Find the element in your story, which will people want to linger and see and listen. A cute animal picture, a baby, a ......, often does more then complex technology.

Make it big:

 Most people in this world are visually oriented, even blind people refer to ’seeing things’. 

So the visual impact is most important. Use big screens or multi-screens (no this does not cost the world). Surround people with images. Immerse them. Complicated? No it is not.

Interaction. 

Get your audience to interact with your story by touching the emotional element.

Technology.  

This comes last.
The range of technology is wide ranging and so is the price. But the most costly technology is wasted if the story is not told well.
On the other hand, effective use of projection foil and mirrors, projection on to objects, panel displays, mirror walls, suspended acrylic screens, all this can help to tell your story with a minium of expense.

LCD, Projection, LED?

Sales people will tell you that a 40K+ LED wall has more impact, then a 10K three projector show on a wide screen.

Rubbish. There are applications where a LED wall will shine and have the desired impact. On the other hand 3 x $500 LCD monitors and a controller can equally engage your audience.

If you have the space, put projection into a darkened room. Why do we still go to cinemas? Because we like these spaces, which allow us to immersive into the story on the screen. Cost a fortune? Does not have to. A blacked our space can be created as a room within a room at minimal cost. Or you have the space, just utilize it wrongly.

Whatever, create the impact and tell your story well. Then every dollar you have invested will pay back multiple times.

Want to talk? Just contact us at itiav.info@iti-imagegroup.com.au and we ring you back.

 

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.

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

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

Newsletter 1, 2020

Newsletter 1, 2020

Welcome to our first 2020 newsletter and a Happy New Year to all of you, may this year give you good health, lots of enjoyment and success.

This morning, when I came out of the house, I noted that the pathway was wet. It rained over night and the dark clouds on the sky indicates it will rain more. This is good news, since the council and grass strip in front of our house was bone dry and a pale brown in colour. But, with the little rain we have had, the first, green shoots of grass are appearing.

Why is this important? It shows us how resilient nature can be and that, in particular after all these devastating bushfires, we need a nature which can grow back fast and restore itself.
It can not bring back what is lost, but new life can start and new beginnings, for all species are possible.

I think this is great news and also a great lesson for us humans. Any disaster and any devastation offers us the opportunity to start again. As long as we put the effort in.

That is, if we manage to keep the weeds down, which may try to overpower the slower growing plants or in a human perspective, to overcome the naysayer and negative thinkers.

I am personally look forward working with you again in 2020 and like to thank all of our customers for their continuous support in a very tough 2019.

Norbert Schmiedeberg





Screenline Screens

A few years back we added Screenline Projection screens to our range, because we needed motorised products and some installation type screen, which our then supplier did not have or did not want to supply to Australia.

This move angered our that time supplier and possibly was a contributing factor for the subsequent change of their distribution policy for Australia.

Initially we never felt that Screenline could replace the Stumpfl MonoBlox range and it still can not in the foldable screen range.     

But Screenline NewBigFrame and NewOnlyWhite-bordeless, together with their Fashion and ProFrame installation range, provide the market with a high quality and one can say, engineering excellence product range.
We had Screenline now for 3 years and found the product of consistently high quality and very reliable.
Screenline has further listened to us and made changes, which benefits our customers.

For example, the initial screens were very heavy. On our advise the factory changed the steel inserts to aluminium ones and at the same time re-designed the corner surface attachment. I find it great that a manufacturer listens and make changes, even it it inconveniences them initially.

But let me point out to you some specific product features:

The NewBigFrame and the NewOnlyWhite-borderless screens share the same frame segments. This provides a great flexibility for the rental and venue operators, which can or do not want to afford separate screens for individual applications.
The NewBigFrame can be used with black border Front or Rear projection material and with an additional small frame insert can also be used as a borderless screen. This of course also works the other way around.

The frame segment is 12 cm wide and 1.2m long and shaped in a way that it is very difficult to bend and warp. The frame is much stiffer than the usual 32x64mm block type frame, which we also have in the EIKON V64 range.

Unfortunately, due to surface manufacturing constraints, Screenline can only make 15-16m wide screens. But then NewOnlyWide frames can easily be joined by pre-fab brackets to create large panorama screens or creative stage set-up’s.

Because of this flexibility, we call these screens also 3-in-1.

These frames use an Arrow surface attachment without press studs. Despite some nay sayers, this system has proven to be very resilient, even in the rental market, helped by the fact that there are no press studs which can be ripped off.

So, why don’t you give Screenline a try in 2020? We are sure you will like the brand and when you travel to Italy next time, visit them.


EIKON:

Our EIKON screen brand was born at the beginning of last year, replacing the Stumpfl product in our line-up.

After some kicking and screaming and some slaps to the bottom, we finally got the product where we want it to be. Here are some of the key improvements we achieved in the last 12 months:

1) Much improved manufacturing consistence compared to Series 1 screens.
2) Changing the large 64 type frames from a 2 part to a 4 part design for better handling.
3) Improving the frame part connection in the 64 range folding + modular screens.
4) Improving the surface manufacturing and adjusting the sizes to suit our climate.
5) Improving the outer edge welding and cutting.
6) Having substantially improved cases.

Yes, EIKON is still a China manufactured screen, but believe me, the factory is making great efforts to supply a good quality product at a good price.
This has much to do with the fact that the factory is Hong Kong controlled by people, who understand Western quality and service requirements.
In fact I am most impressed by the service and the fact that surfaces, which had size and border cutting issues, were replaced without much fuss.
Since the factory is much closer to Australia, we are able to import at an improved timeframes over the European supply, both in respect to sea and airfreight.

Talking about this. Recently we supplied 3 x 12x6.7m Matt White EIKON surfaces for an outdoor application. Initially the client bought only one surface, but they are so happy with the quality, that they ordered 2 more and these had to be supplied at short notice.

We also noted that the MattWhite surface, despite having similar gain factors as our European screens, have a great reflectivity, which copes even with some ambient light. We found this out, when we had to set up a screen at the recent Flight Simulator Expo and found that there was no black out. Despite this, the projected image from a 3500 lumen short throw projector looked acceptable.

We have EIKON 32 and 64 in stock, including the 20’ size.




VNS GeoBox is becoming very successful around the world.

All current models  include 8K1K/30 input capability and of course 4K2K/60. Output is usually FHD/60 on the HDMI ports. The 4K output version is expected this month and will most likely been demonstrated at ISE.

GeoBox is available in videowall and blending systems. Of course the blending units can be used for videowall work as well.

GeoBox has also single channel versions, which can add adjustment capabilities to projectors.

Here in Australia, we have GeoBox operators, who use these units in their rental pool for LCD and LED wall control.

As we are learning more about the product and taking a leaf out of the application book of the European distributor, we will be providing you with many more application ideas from single display to multi-multi projectors set-up.

By the way, we will make some of our unit available for rental to the Australian  rental companies, since it may not always pay for you to buy a unit, just for one job.

But I am sure you are going to love the technology, in particular, since GeoBox is a great extension to media server, such as Watchout, Wings, Arcaos, etc., allowing the extension of output channels without having to purchase extra software licences and expensive computer upgrades.

GeoBox also works extremely well with the IDAL and Brightsign players, but more about this another time.



What about VIOSO? Isn’t GeoBox clashing with VIOSO?

This question has been asked and the answer is, in our view, No.

Why? First of all there is a significant price difference between both technologies. GeoBox is a hardware, non-pc based blending, warping and videowall controller, while VIOSO is PC based.

Secondly, there are different price breaks between both systems.

Third, the VIOSO system includes automated, camera supported image and blending calibration and therefore is faster and more convenient in the set-up, in particular of multi-display applications.

Fourth, VIOSO has easy re-calibration capabilities, which are a great bonus for installations with untrained or unexperienced staff or for display critical applications or installations which require frequent or even daily re-calibration. One typical one is the use of inflatable domes.

Fifth, GeoBox takes media from any server or external player, while VIOSO has its own player as part of the software, or uses the players or applications, which are part of the Windows environment.

For me, my favourite VIOSO product for multi-display projection or curved screen - immersive projection is VIOSO Player.
A lower cost software, which can easily be installed into a homegrown computer with less demanding graphic cards.
Player makes a fantastic Video Playback system.

On the other end of the scale are Anyblend and Blackbox for blended and warped desktop applications or captured image data streams.

So in summary, these two brand do not clash. In fact they complement each other, whereby GeoBox offers the added versatility of videowall control and matrix switching.





Fujifilm Z5000

Last year we got involved with the introduction of the Fujifilm Z5000 projector.
This is a great projector with fantastic short throw capabilities and a high quality image.

Its shift capabilities can overcome many set-up problems, both in rental and permanent installation.
Combining the projector with the GeoBox G116, even warping adjustments can be added and overcome some of the issues inderent with super wide angle projector installations.

Over the holiday break I have had the opportunity to work with the unit and the adjustment capabilities are just fantastic. I could move the image virtually over one screen width (1/2 screen width either side) and completely of the screen vertically in both direction, with the typical horizontal projector set-up.

Due to the rotation lens, the projector can be set-up vertically, having a smaller footprint and project also vertically, if needed, without having to worry about the projector stability.

Some of the customers we visited have asked for some additional features and I have been told that these will be progressively implemented.

By the way, the white unit is now available and looks great. It will blend in well, both in professional and home theatre environments.


Protection for LCD screens in rental.

Recently I have been asked for the supply of protection foils for LCD rental screens to avoid scratches.

Initially I though that the anti-glare screen would be a solution, but I found that the image sharpness is affected using these foils.

But our foil manufacturer showed me some ‘security’ foil’, which is designed to make it difficult to break through glass. These foils are self adhesive and transparent.

They are available in different thickness and work well on LCD screens. A 4micron film appears to be most suitable, but there are thicker ones available as well.

Unfortunately these films they do add a small amount of glossiness to the screen. But it is not as bad, as the high gloss consumer LED screens have sometimes.

Initially we will sell these rolls in 30m rolls at about 1.04m wide. Once we have a better understanding about demand, we may offer the foils also in 10m rolls.





Norbert Schmiedeberg
Managing Director
January 2020

Contact: P.O.Box 3159, Asquith NSW 2077
E: itiav.info@iti-imagegroup.com.au
P: +61 (02) 94775709

Projection versa LCD in ambient light

Projection information:

ALR (Ambient Light rejecting) projection material vs LCD screens in business applications.

ALR projection surfaces are a great solution for both commercial and home theatre applications. They allow the viewing of projected images and video in lit environments with almost no reduction in colour and contrast.

But the question arises, why projection, if we can have LCD monitors, which are easy to use and everyone understands.

There are a number of factors we need to consider in choosing between LCD and projection.

Let’s have a look at some of the Pros and Cons of both technologies.

LCD +	LCD -	Projection +	Projection -
One unit only	Size limit	Can project to large sizes at low cost	Requires room light control
Everyone understands	Consumer units may not be ideal in pro-applications	Laser technology is maintenance free	Projector + screen separate
Low Cost by size	Fixed brightness	Cost effective	Requires projection screen
Easy portable	Often glossy surface - reflection	Projector and screen unbundled = flexibility	May require long cable from image source to projector
	Legibility restrictions	Easy to store and transport
	60” and larger screens are cumbersome to handle	Can be ceiling mounted or table positioned
	May require expensive mounting	Easy to operate
	A big screen always visible.	Can be ceiling recessed or build into furniture, requiring little space. The screen can be ceiling recessed and invisible if not in use.
	May require expensive mounting for invisible mounting

As we can see, there advantages to both technologies. The most problematic one is that LCD screens have size restrictions and may not be ideal when it comes to content viewing and legibility.

Another negative factor can be that LCD screens, due to their prevalence in almost every household, have much less attraction value. This may reduce the impact of the material presented.

Projection is often shunned, because of the need to black out or darken the projection environment. While this may improve the impact and causes the viewer to focus on the screen content, it can be an inconvenience.

So how can we overcome this?

Rear projection (RP), where the projector is located behind the screen is one solution. RP allows for large images and provides a high quality image, but requires space behind the screen. Also short throw projectors may not work well in RP application, due to the light distribution.

As alternative the industry has developed Ambient Light Rejection (ALR) surfaces. These projection surfaces tend to reflect light from a specific direction (the projector) and reject or reduce the impact of ambient light, allowing projection with light-on.

There are different ALR surfaces on the market for use with different projectors and different applications.

ALR surfaces can be found in traditional frame projection screen type, roll-up foils for motorized screens, self-adhesive projection foils, projection paint.

The key benefit is that they allow screen sizes, exceeding the typical 60” to 90” LCD screen. This improves legibility, impact, viewing comfort and content understanding.

ALR surfaces generally have a matt appearance and therefore will not reflect light sources in the room.

ALR surfaces can be used with any type of projector, so can easily be used as a retrofit to lamp based projectors.

A side effect of ALR surfaces is that they are often silver-grey in colour and therefore less obtrusive then matt white surface material.

Here is a selection of ALR material on the market:

 

Screenline Radiance -

a flexible PVC based surface material, which can be folded or rolled. It can be installed in roll-down screens, frame based designs and folding screens. It can also be used with borderless screens.

Radiance accepts projection light from any projector type.

It is available in grey at 0.8 gain or white at 1.8 gain.

Negative:

1) It can not be welded, so the max size depends on the manufacturer’s roll size.

2) It should not be folded, so use with folding screens is more cumbersome.

 

EIKON KGB-

A foil based material which accepts  light from only one direction., making it ideal to be used with short throw, front projectors, with the unit positioned below the screen, projecting up.

Great for home theatre or the elegant boardroom, with the projector hidden in the sideboard.

High quality image with good contrast.

KGB material can not be folded and must be rolled up.

Negative:

Size limitation because the material cannot be welded. Max size 150” diag at 16:9 or 141” (16:10)

SM Radiant-

a foil based material from the same manufacturer as the DNP Pro Nova Range (according to the supplier).

This material can be used in standard front projection settings.

It works well in low to medium lit environments and has a nice charcoal grey appearance.

Sizes up to 118" (16:9), 109" (16:10), 127" (2.35:1)

HATO Black Projection Paint-

A Projection Paint which has great ALR characteristics. HATO Paint Black has a dark charcoal like appearance with some interesting highlights. It can be applied by roller or spray. The material sticks well to many substrates, including plastic bottles, etc..

It can be used with short throw projectors, though there can be a tendency to hotspot.

Absorbing bases, such as plaster, uncoated timber, etc, should be given an undercoat of ceiling paint tinted to grey.

No size limitation and that in case of scratches, it can simply be repainted.

HATO works well on shaped surfaces and can be applied to products, artwork and other items.

NDFOS Ultra Black rear projection foil.

Technically not an ALR material, but with good ambient light rejection characteristics. A dark, self-adhesive rear projection foil, which sticks to glass and Plexiglas.

The black tint absorbs a high level of ambient light and therefore can be called ALR capable.

The projected image features a good contrast. Because the foil can be cut to size, it is ideal for applications in shops, car windows, display cabinets, glass dividers etc..

The foil is 1.5m wide and up to 30m long. It is ideal for wide screen applications.

ProDisplay Black Touchscreen Black

The ProDisplay foil is also self adhesive and comes with a touch overlay.  It has similar properties to the NDFOS foil. Though not strictly ALR, the black tint absorbs ambient light and the rear projection enhances the projected image.

The touch overlay connects to a PC. It works well through shop windows and other glass.

For more information and advise contact:

E: itiav.info@iti-imagegroup.com.au

P: +61 2 94775709