Module 2 Activity Research

Weekly Activity Template

Yawen Qiao

In this project, we continued our first endeavor—3D projection. We created paper prototypes and experimented with projected visuals. Based on the results from these experiments, I believe we can explore numerous interactive possibilities in the next project. For this project, we finalized the prototype design and visual style, and I also learned how to use TouchDesigner for projection during class demonstrations. This entire learning and exploration process has been incredibly engaging and rewarding. I look forward to incorporating more interactive features in our final project.

Project 2

Module 2

During the research phase of this project, we experimented with creating a phone stand using cardboard. I believe this was an excellent opportunity to practice hands-on skills. Following this, we also crafted a paper prototype for 3D projection and completed preliminary tests of the projected content. These steps played a crucial role in refining our design. I also gained significant knowledge of Touchdesigner, which proved extremely helpful.

Workshop 1 Geurilla Prototyping I

Tools and process used by my group members and me to make a phone stand during class.

Newly learned technique: Only peel off the outer layer of cardboard to achieve bending or folding.

Dimension drawings we created at the time.

Workshop 2 Geurilla Prototyping II

We experimented with projectors to evaluate different effects.

This shows the projector's output—the colors appeared much lighter than anticipated.

Here we tested another projector. After comparison, we selected the first one.

This involved assessing whether it met our requirements and evaluating setup flexibility.

We continued testing various configurations and angles.

Activity 1: Prototyping

The paper cube has been preliminarily completed.

This shows the stacked cubes, which is also the shape effect we tested.

The effect achieved by positioning and projecting onto the box using TouchDesigner.

This image shows the placement of the projector.

This shows the debugging results for size and orientation.

Activity 2: Projection

This is a challenging shape. Many surfaces are inaccessible for projection, and the geometry is complex.

Connecting video to projection within Touchdesigner.

Experimenting with different noise patterns.

Testing three small fish with understanding—quite intriguing.

The effect of goldfish swimming in three boxes meets our expectations.

Additional Research or Workshops

This explores the movement trajectories and shapes of noise patterns.

Appearance of noise patterns under projection.

Editing view within Touchdesigner. Note that while the real-world projection appears square, the digital representation differs.

Modifying noise shapes and sizes to simulate tree shade patterns. <a href='https://youtube.com/shorts/E5ZlrjPT4Uc?feature=share' target='_blank'><p>Testing Projector and Noise</p></a>

Final goldfish rendering, though minor imperfections remain—a natural consequence of AI generation.

Project 2

Project 2 Prototype

Through the entire project's research, we concluded the following: 1. Update more 3D videos or media based on existing artistic foundations. 2. Enhance the shape and appearance of paper models to optimize projection effects on our models. Design modifications may also be considered. 3. Integrate interactive features based on these foundations. Potential implementations include Arduino or sensors, with specific decisions to be determined through group discussion. Overall, this project attempt has yielded significant progress. We utilized AI to generate designs aligned with the theme, though perfection remains elusive. Therefore, we will comprehensively consider how to achieve these objectives. We hope to accomplish our goals in the future while conducting as much research and experimentation as possible.

Prototype Video

This is a rendering of goldfish swimming. The video will show it more clearly. Since it's AI-generated, there may be some inaccuracies. We will enhance the video effects in the future, including the paper model shown later.