I’ve talked with some of my coworkers about my project, since they’re all IMM alum to get their feedback, as well as my alum adviser. I’ve also chatted with friends and classmates just to hear their thoughts.
However, the focus on this week’s research is more so on preparation for building actual prototypes. I already have a good stash of tutorial resources in building the actual hologram prototype. Now I’m compiling a list of materials I need:
- iPads (possibly Android tablets) x5?
- Headphones
- Maya
- Materials to make environment (paper mache? 3D printer? Cardboard?)
- Plexiglass or some other transparent material
- CD cases for prototype
- Possible arduino or raspberry pi
- Motion sensors
- Mini LED lights (possibly triggered by motion sensor)
I’d personally recommend the Arduino over the Raspberry Pi because it’s 1.) Cheaper 2.) More user friendly and has more tutorials, source material, and a stronger community forum when you run into programming/engineering issues. 3.) The Raspberry Pi is a Linux based system and is essentially a giant computer so that’s just a headache and less of what you’re looking for. Plus I would take advantage of Cyber Monday and order it off Amazon then because they always have holiday bundles so you might be able to swing a kit with LEDs and a motion sensor for cheap! Ohhhh if you end up modeling your forrest scene, you could use the 3D printer and print it out, that way it’s more authentic to the project plus it would be super cool to own a physical model of something you’ve made in Maya!! How many tablets does IMM have now?? Plan B could be to start crowdsourcing to friends to see who has a tablet you can borrow for the show. A student last year ended up using Warren’s personal laptop in an installation piece so sharing is caring!
Great insight! Thanks! I was debating between the Pi and Arduino, but now it looks like the Arduino is the way to go. I was also definitely considering using the 3D printer. I recently had the idea to build my model out of trash (id. discarded boxes, cans, plastic bags, etc.) for the allegorical reference to trash in the modern-day environment, but there may still be some things to 3D print.
The IMM department doesn’t have a lot of tablets, but it has a fair number of iPads. However, how many of those would be available during thesis is debatable, but I can definitely ask around! I have a lenovo flex I can convert into something tablet-esque too–I’ll start making a list of alternatives so I can start planning.