GB2518370A

GB2518370A - Animation by sequential illumination

Info

Publication number: GB2518370A
Application number: GB1316576.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Bruno Mathez; Carol Macgillivary
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2013-09-18
Filing date: 2013-09-18
Publication date: 2015-03-25
Also published as: GB201316576D0

Abstract

A plurality of objects 20 having physical configurations and spatial separations such that sequential illumination of each of the objects causes the respective object to become visible and creates the optical illusion of apparent motion. Each of the plurality of objects has a dedicated light source, which may be part of the object itself. The light source may be an LED. The object may be at least partly transparent to allow an internal light source to illuminate the object. The object may have an electroluminescent surface which emits light upon excitation. The objects may be arranged such that illumination of one object does not cause any illumination of the other objects. A mounting arrangement 30 may be included to fix the position of each object and at least one object may be movable between first and second positions when the object is not illuminated and invisible to the observer. The embodiment is an artistic or experimental set-up in which 3D objects are arranged in space to represent snapshots of a moving object and sequentially illuminated to create a motion effect. Such a device is known as a diasynchronoscope.

Description

ANIMATION BY SEQUENTIAL ILLUMINATION

Technical Field of the Inventicn

The present invention concerns a visual arrangement and a method of illuminating a visual arrangement.

Background to the Invention

The inventors have previously developed a technique for viewing animation, which has been termed a diasynchronosoope (or a diasynchronic technique) . In this technique, a plurality of static objects are physically configured and spatially separated with respect to one another in a particular way. The technique is described in detail in "Co-Authored Narrative Experience: Affective, Embodied Interaction through Combining the Diachronic with the Syrichronistic", C. MacCillivray and B. Mathez, Leonardo Electronic Almanac (Touch and Go) 18, no. 3 (2012) : 72-83 and "Developing a System of Screen-less Animation for Experiments in Perception of Movement", C. MacGillivray, B. Mathez and F. Fol Leymarie, Proceedings of the Eighth Annual Symposium on Computational Aesthetics in Graphics, Visualization, and Imaging (2012), Pages 71-80.

Specifically, the objects are located in a darkened space. Moreover, each of the objects is dark coloured. This means that none of the objects are visible under normal circumstances. When each of the plurality of static objects are illuminated in a sequence, the respective object becomes visible. The physical configuration, spatial separation and illumination of the objects are set so as to create the optical effect of apparent motion to a viewer of the so-illuminated objects. This may be understood as creating the experience of motion derived from successive stimuli at different locations. In particular, the objects are positioned according to Gestalt laws and animation principles. They are also individually formed so that they can animate through size, shape, orientation, colour and any combination of these.

The illumination is achieved by means of a projector.

The projector acts as an external light source and, using position or projection mapping, a precise illumination can be effected such that one or more specific objects can be illuminated whilst the remaining objects remain invisible to the viewer. The illumination is a significant aspect of the arrangement and creates a unique animation technique, since the viewer sees real three-dimensional objects being animated. This contrasts with previous three-dimensional animation techniques, such as a three-dimensional zoetrope, in which strobed illumination is used to light up all of the objects and create the effect of apparent motion. It also contrasts with techniques such as stereoscopic three-dimensional projection, in which a screen is illuminated and vision glasses are required to create the effect of three-dimensional visualisation.

Nevertheless, the use of a video projector makes the arrangement complex. A videc projector can only illuminate half of an object's surface, restricting the viewing area.

To achieve full illumination of the objects (and maximal viewing area, as a ccnseguence) , the system reguires at least two video projectors. Moreover, the video projection mapping process may demand a continuous fixed position of both the objects and the video projector. Any movement may result in a need to re-map the object, which can be time-consuming. Viewers can also cast shadows onto the objects, which can compromise the desired effect of smooth apparent motion. Improving this technique, whilst retaining its existing benefits, remains a challenge.

Summary of the Invention

Against this background, the present invention provides a visual arrangement, comprising: a plurality of objects, having physical configurations and spatial separations with respect to one another such that sequential illumination of each of the plurality of objects at a respective time causes the respective object to beccme visible so as to create the optical effect of apparent motion to a viewer of the visual arrangement. Moreover, each of the plurality of objects has a dedicated light souroe, in order to effect the sequential illumination. Preferably, each of the plurality of objects comprises its dedicated light source.

The existing diasynchronic technique is reliant on an external projector to provide appropriate illumination. It was assumed that alternatives would be difficult to find, because precise illumination of individual objects is desirable in order to effect the animation convincingly.

However, if each object has its own dedicated light source, self-illumination is possible. Provided that there are three objects or more (which will almost always be true) , at least three light sources will typically be needed. By dedicated, it is intended that a light source is used with (when activated) either a fixed illumination pattern or configurable to one of a discrete number of pre-defined illumination patterns, at least one of which illuminates the object to which the light source is dedicated. Other illumination patterns may illuminate other objects to which the light source is dedicated. Specifically, it does not include a video projector, which is configurable to an indeterminate number of illumination patterns. This can eiiminate probiems that are inherent to the use of a video projector. For example, spectators should not cast a shadow over the objects. This may also allow them to get closer to the objects and move more freely. Since objects may be integrally or internally illuminated, their illumination may be more complete and as a result, the optical illusion of apparent motion might be achieved from all angles. Such illumination of the objects may also mean that they are less or not sensitive to shifting or vulnerable to external movement. Self-illumination may also eliminate or mitigate the need for mapping the object that is part of the Initialisation procedure for use of a video projector.

Object mapping can be highly time-consuming. Self-illumination of the objects can also mitigate or eliminate the setting-up and fixing of an external illumination source, such as a video projector, thereby making space requirements less stringent and improving the versatility and flexibility of the arrangement. A further benefit may be found in replication of the system. Existing diasynchronic visual arrangements are time-consuming to install and maintain, for the reasons noted above. The above benefits may facilitate the manufacture, installation, operation and maintenance of multiple similar or identical visual arrangements. Multiple replicable and programmable visual arrangements may then be possible.

When an object is not illuminated, its visibility is reduced, to the extent that the object may be partially or completely invisible to the viewer. It will be noted that the visual arrangement is advantageously configured such that the motion effect may be apparent to the viewer in an environment in which each of the plurality of objects are less visible or not visible unless illuminated and the visual arrangement is preferably located in such an environment. In particular, the plurality of objects may be located in an environment or space that is configured to obscure all of the plurality of objects that are not illuminated. This is preferably achieved in an enclosed space (although the visual arrangement can be located in an outdoor space, in some embodiments) . For example, the environment or space may be configured to be dark, except for the light sources provided by each of the plurality of objects. The enclosure of the environment or space may be configured to prevent the entry of light from sources external to the space and no other light sources may be provided internal to the space. Alternatively, the plurality of objects and the environment or space may be configured so as to otherwise conceal the visibility of non-illuminated objects, for example by camouflage. Then, the illumination of the object may simply result in a change of colour of the object, thereby rendering it visible against the camouflage.

In the preferred embodiment, the visual arrangement further comprises a controller, configured to control each of the plurality of objects so as to activate and/or deactivate the respective light source, in order to effect the sequential illumination. For example, the controller may be configured to activate each of the plurality of light sources during a respective time period only. The time period may be short in duration, such as less than one second. Typically, light sources of adjacent objects are not simultaneously illuminated, but may be illuminated one after the other in a direct sequence. More preferably, the controller is further configured to set the times of activation and deactivation of the light source of each of the plurality of objects, in order to create the optical effect of apparent motion to the viewer of the so-illuminated plurality of objects.

There are a range of possibilities for the light source of each object. Advantageously, the light source of at least one of the plurality of objects (preferably, some of the plurality of objects and more preferably all of the plurality of objects) is integral with the respeotive object. In other words, the object and light source are not readily separable. In some embodiments, the light source of at least one of the plurality of objeots (preferably some of the plurality of objects and more preferably all of the plurality of objects) is internal to the respective object.

Moreover, at least a portion of the respective object may have at least some light-transparency. This may allow the internal light source to illuminate the object. In preferred embodiments, the majority of the surface of the object has at least some light-transparency and most preferably, all of the surface of the object has at least some light-transparency. In embodiments, the surface of the object is largely or fully light-transparent. Beneficially, the light source of at least one of the plurality of objects (more preferably, some of the plurality of objects and most preferably, all of the plurality of objects) comprises a semiconductor Light Emitting Device (LED) . This may be efficient, cost effective or both.

In some embodiments, the surface of at least one of the plurality of objects (preferably, some of the plurality of objects and more preferably, all of the plurality of objects) comprises a light source. For example, the surface of the object may comprise an electroluminescent material.

In some embodiments, the eleotroluminescent material may be provided as a covering for the respective object (which may optionally be separable) and may therefore be effective as the surface of the object accordingly.

Advantageously, the light source of each of the plurality of objects and the spatial separation of the plurality of objects are configured such that an activation of each light source causes illumination of the respective object only. In other words, illumination of one object may not cause illumination of another object. This may not be necessary, but in embodiments it can improve the efficacy of the animation. Optionally, this may be achieved by setting the illumination intensity of each light source accordingly, for example below the light source maximum intensity level, but high enough to create the effect of apparent motion (for example, so that the object is visible to the viewer) In some embodiments, each of the plurality of objects differs with respect to an adjacently positioned object with regard to at least one property of the objects. The at least one property may comprise one or more of: size; shape; orientation; and colour. Some of the objects may be identical in embodiments.

In the preferred embodiment, at least one of the plurality of objects is static (that is, its position is fixed) . Preferably, some of the plurality of objects are static and more preferably, all of the plurality of objects are static. The position of the static objects is preferably fixed (more preferably, the physical configuration of the static objects is also fixed) at least during a time period when the respective object is illuminated, but optionally at all times. In other words, each object is advantageously static (fixed in position) at least when it is illuminated and typically at all times.

Optionally, the visual arrangement further comprises a mounting arrangement for fixing the position (optionally, and/or the physical configuration) of each of the plurality of objects at least during a time period when the respective cbject is illuminated, but optionally at all times.

Typically, the mounting arrangement is adapted to he invisible to the viewer, whether any of the plurality of objects are illuminated or not. For example, this may be achieved by the use of wires, camouflaging or other known technigues for concealing mounting devices. Beneficially, an electrical coupling arrangement is provided for providing a power supply to the respective light source for each of the plurality of objects. Optionally, the electrical coupling arrangement forms a part of the mounting arrangement.

In some embodiments, the mounting arrangement Is configured to set the position of at least one of the plurality of objects selectively between a first position and a second position, the first position being selected at least during a time period when the respective object is illuminated. It will be understood that it is possible for the mounting arrangement to move the position (and/or other configuration) of each of one of the objects, some of the objects or all of the objects when the respective object or objects is not illuminated.

Setting the spatial separation between adjacent objects is significant in providing an effective animation. In particular, the spatial separation between each of the plurality of objects and the first and second objects (optionally, all objects) adjacent to the respective object may be different. By spacing adjacent objects differently from one another, an improved optical effect of apparent motion oan be aohieved (although in some cases, but not all, the spacing between adjacent objects may be the same) . The spatial separation between adjacent objects may partially be based on Gestalt laws and animation principles.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of illuminating a visual arrangement, comprising: illuminating each of the plurality of objects sequentially to cause the respective object to become visible, a physical configuration, spatial separation and time of illumination of the plurality of objects being set to create an optical effect of apparent motion to a viewer of the so-illuminated plurality of objects. Each cf the plurality of objects comprises a respective light source, such that the step of illuminating comprises controlling each of the light sources. This method may have further, optional steps corresponding with the features described with relation to the visual arrangement of the first aspect herein.

Preferably, the step of illuminating is carried out in an environment in which each of the plurality of objects are not visible unless illuminated.

In a yet further aspect, a computer program is provided, configured when operated by a processor to carry out the method in the second aspect.

It will further be understood that any combination of features from within each aspect is further provided, even if that combination of features is not explicitly disclosed herein. Combinations of features between the first and second aspects is also possible.

Brief Description of the Drawings

-10 -The invention may be put into practice in various ways, one of which will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawing, in which: Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a visual arrangement in accordance with the present invention.

Detailed Description of a Preferred Embodiment

Referring to Figure 1, there is shown an embodiment of a visual arrangement 10 in accordance with the present invention. The visual arrangement 10 comprises: a plurality of static objects 20; a mounting arrangement 30; electrical connections 40; and a concealment housing 50. The visual arrangement 10 may be termed a diasynchronoscope, especially when located in a darkened rcom or enclosure.

The plurality of objects 20 are formed using 3D printed materials. They are fixed in position by the mounting arrangement 30, which comprises a series of poles coupled to the concealment housing 50. The poles of the mounting arrangement 30 are dark in cciour and the concealment housing 50 is also dark and prevents a portion of the poles being visible. Electrical connections 40 are provided via the poles of the mounting arrangement 30 to the plurality of objects 30.

The electrical connections 40 are coupled to at least one Light Emitting Device or Diode (LED) that is provisioned internally to each of the objects 20. The surface of each object is transparent to light in some way, but otherwise appears dark.

The internal bEDs are all connected to a power switching system (not shown) . For example, this may be an electronic board, microprocessor, computer or similar device. This then has individual control of each object's -11 -illumination. The objects 20 are illuminated sequentially.

In an environment where there is no other source of light (such as a darkened room or other enclosure), nothing is visible to a viewer unless it is illuminated. The objects 20 are illuminated in a sequence in order to achieve the diasynohronio effect, discussed above.

The diasynchronic effect is created by three specific controls, alongside the crafting of the objects 20. These are: i) position and orientation (specifically, the differential spacing and angles between the related objects); and ii) time (specifically, how long an object is lit) The diasynchronio effect choreographs time in space, by taking time-based techniques from animation and converting them to a spatial domain. The objects 20 are grouped to create sequential visual cues that, when the objects are illuminated, demand selective attention. This thereby creates the illusion of animated movement using real objects. Inside the Diasynchronosccpe, animation is immersive, sharing the same space as the observer so that they perceive a continuous flow of movement that resembles, at a psychological level, interaction with a real-life moving object. For example, it will be seen from Figure 1 that sequential illumination of the objects there creates the effect of a bouncing cube.

The Diasynchronoscope is a new medium for experiencing apparent movement and may be used in the fields of art, stage design, architecture, immersive entertainment, experiences for multiple spectators, medical applications for attention disorders and immersive training, as well as a potential experimental tool for perceptual psychology. By using integral or internal lighting of the objects, it may -12 -become possible to adapt the diasynchronosoope for use as toys, games, decorative animated lighting, wearable objects and other portable products. In terms of academic and researoh purposes, this may also be useful in furthering theories of perceptual psychology and motion perception studies using objects crafted for replicable experimentation. Artistically, it may add versatility, allowing exhibition of Dlasynchronoscope artefacts to be extended beyond total blackout spaces and to fit into smaller spaces. Here, potential applications may include amusement parks, museums and similar experiences, public areas, architecture, art installation, education, theatre and events.

Although a specific embodiment has been described above, the skilled person will recognise that various alternatives and modifications are possible. For example, a form of internal illumination other than an LED can be used.

Alternatively, multiple LEDs can be provided within each object. Another form of alternative illumination may be the use of electroluminescent materials, where the crafted material itself illuminates. By fabricating the plurality of objects using such a material, the actual surface of the object may radiate light. Other forms of alternative illumination will be apparent. Also, the objects can be manufactured using other materials and need not be made using 3D printed.

In another embodiment, the light sources may be provided separate to the objects and illumination effect of the light sources is fixed, unlike a projector. However, the number of light sources is greater than two and preferably at least a quarter (more preferably half, even more preferably three quarters and most preferably the same -13 -as) the number of objects. Optionally, the number of light sources is similar to or greater than the number of objects.

In this embodiment, each object has a respective light source, which is configured to illuminate one (or optionally more than one) object when activated. The seguential illumination effect can be achieved accordingly.

Alternative mounting arrangements may use wires or other fixings. These may be invisible to the viewer due to their dimensions (for example, wires) or due to other concealment (for instance, being hidden behind other objects) . In other scenarios, the objects may be dark or camouflaged, thereby masking or hiding their appearance unless illuminated.

In the embodiments described above, the mounting arrangement 30 fixes the position and configuration (orientation, size, shape, or similar) of the plurality of objects 20 and this applies when the objects are illuminated and when they are not illuminated (in other words, at all times) . The dlasynchronic optical effect of apparent motion, as described previously, uses the sequential illumination of static objects. Since all of the objects are static, they stay in the same space before and after their respective Illumination. As a consequence, they can create an occlusion when situated between the viewer and the illuminated object. This occlusion, by hiding totally or partially some of the illuminated objects from the viewer, reduces the qualia of the apparent motion and of the viewer's experience in general.

However, the fixed position of the objects may not be necessary when the object is not illuminated. Thus, a mounting arrangement Is possible that allows or causes one, some or all of the plurality of objects to be moved in their -14 -configuration, position or both when the respective object is not illuminated. When the object is illuminated, its position (and advantageously, its configuration) remain fixed. This may be achieved using motors, pulleys and other mechanical means. Moreover, this need not require that each of the plurality of objects comprises a respective light source in order to effect the sequential illumination, such that one or more projectors may be used instead. In currently envisaged embodiments, the mounting arrangement 30 only fixes the position, orientation or both of the plurality of objects when illuminated.

Such embodiments may help to avoid the occlusion problem. The objects may be moved within the visual arrangement when not Illuminated. As a result, there may be at least two positions per object: a non-illuminated or hidden position (out of the viewing angles); and an illuminated position. As the objects are less visible or Invisible when not Illuminated, their movement when not Illuminated would not be perceivable to the viewer.

Thus, a visual arrangement could comprise: a plurality of objects, having physical configurations and spatial separations with respect to cne another such that sequential illumination of each of the plurality of objects at a respective time causes the respective object to become visible and thereby creates the optical effect of apparent motion to a viewer of the visual arrangement; and a mounting arrangement for fixing the pcsition of each of the plurality of objects during a time period when the respective object is illuminated and causing a change in the position, configuration or both of at least one object during a time period when the at least one object is not illuminated.

Thus, the mounting arrangement may allow each of the -15 -plurality of objects to have at least two positions and allow selection between these at least two positions. Any combination of these features with features described herein is also possible.

Claims

-16 -CLAIJYIS1. A visual arrangement, comprising: a plurality of objects, having physical configurations and spatial separations with respect to one another such that sequential illumination of each of the plurality of objects at a respective time causes the respective object to become visible so as to create the optical effeot of apparent motion to a viewer of the visual arrangement; and wherein eaoh of the plurality of objects has a dedicated light source, in order to effect the sequential illumination.
2. The visual arrangement of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of objeots oomprises its dedicated light source.
3. The visual arrangement of claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising: a controller, configured to control each of the plurality of objeots so as to activate and deactivate the respective light source, in order to effect the sequential illumination.
4. The visual arrangement of claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to set the times of activation and deactivation of the light souroe of each of the plurality of objeots, in order to create the optical effect of apparent motion to the viewer of the so-illuminated plurality of objects.

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5. The visual arrangement of any preceding claim, wherein the light source of at least one of the plurality of objects is integral with the respective object.
6. The visual arrangement of any preceding claim, wherein the light source of at least one of the plurality of objects is internal to the respective object, at least a portion of the surface of respective object having at least some light-transparency, thereby allowing the internal light source to illuminate the object.
7. The visual arrangement of claim 6, wherein the light source of at least one of the plurality of objects comprises a semiconductor Light Emitting Device, LED. 3-5
8. The visual arrangement of any preceding claim, wherein the surface of at least one of the plurality of objects comprises a light source.
9. The visual arrangement of claim 8, wherein the surface of at least one of the plurality of objects comprises an electroluminescent material.
10. The visual arrangement of any preceding claim, wherein the light source of each of the plurality of objects and the spatial separation of the plurality of objects are configured such that an activation of each light source causes illumination of the respective object only.
11. The visual arrangement of any preceding claim, wherein each of the plurality of objects differs with respect to an -18 -adjacently positioned object with regard to one of more of the objects': size; shape; orientation; and colour.
12. The visual arrangement of any preceding claim, wherein the spatial separation between each of the plurality of objects and first and second objects adjacent to the respective object are different.
13. The visual arrangement of any preceding claim, further comprising: a mounting arrangement for fixing the position of each of the plurality of objects at least during a time period when the respective object is illuminated.
14. The visual arrangement of claim 13, wherein the mounting arrangement is configured to set the position of at least one of the plurality of objects selectively between a first position and a second position, the first position being selected at least during a time period when the respective object is illuminated.
15. A method of illuminating a visual arrangement, comprising: illuminating each of a plurality of objects seguentially to cause the respective object to become visible, a physical configuration, spatial separation and time of illumination of the plurality of objects being set to create the optical effect of apparent motion to a viewer of the so-illuminated plurality of objects; and wherein each of the plurality of objects comprises a respective light source, such that the step of illuminating comprises controlling each of the light sources.

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16. The method of claim 15, wherein the step of illuminating is carried out in an environment in which each of the plurality of objects are not visible unless illuminated.
17. A oomputer program, configured when operated by a processor to carry out the method of claim 15 or claim 16.