31 October 2011

3D scanning test

Elena Marchenko + Yuri Endo 2011

RGBDemo with minimum camera movements


Elena Marchenko + Yuri Endo 2011

We re-tested 3D scanning with minimum camera movements. Compared to our previous test scanning with continuous movements, we were able to scan clearer images during the second try-out.

25 October 2011

RGBDemo test scanning


Elena Marchenko + Yuri Endo 2011

As an alternative to Brekel, we have tested RGBDemo (rgbd-reconstructor app) for 3D scanning, then processed its obj. data in MeshLab.

18 October 2011

Mirror Test



Yuri Endo 2011

As suggested, I placed a mirror in front of Kinect to see if it really does capture reflections. (Reflections from>> Upper: a bathroom mirror, Lower: a handheld mirror) Next step is to find a parabolic reflector to place in front so we can achieve wide angle view from kinect.

15 October 2011

Test ride 001


Taken with LUMIX GH1 attached with the magic arm on the brand new kickboard.

Location hunting with a magic arm


Yuri Endo 2011

10 October 2011

New Z-mobile

Yuri Endo 2011
*A "Spark-Board" @ 79,000 KRW

I finally managed to get my own kickboard.

05 October 2011

CocoaKinect>>Video + Depth

Elena Marchenko + Yuri Endo 2011

CocoaKinect >> Point Cloud>>Video (vs Depth)

Elena Marchenko + Yuri Endo 2011

Running with Marchenko


Elena Marchenko + Yuri Endo 2011
*CocoaKinect>>Point Cloud>>Normal

I clearly understood why most of the steadicam operators are well-build male with unapproachable air. The pratice videos which my fellow project mate, Elena Marchenko, and I worked on today ( I was the camera operator) looks exactly like a amateur girl's job. Serious training is a must to operate this monster correctly.

Merci Maxence


A great reference from Maxence Parache on portable Kinect power source.
>> NAVI

04 October 2011

Kinect + Steadicam



Steadicam test


Elena Marchenko + Yuri Endo 2011
*Elena Marchenko trying out the steadicam

During today's calss, we mounted Kinect on steadicam for a test shoot. Although the equipment felt extremely heavy at first ( approximately 10kg) , when I started moving around, it became slightly lighter and manageable.

03 October 2011

Kinect+Laptop without an AC adapter?


Thanks to Professor D.H., I discovered some examples of Kinect power hack techniques which might clear out my power related concerns. Frankly, I am still in the process of understanding what is actually going on throughout this video and further research is absolutely needed before I wreck my laptop and Kinect. Stay tuned.

Fear and loathing on Hannam Bridge



Since I voluntarily crossed this bridge last summer, I have been seeking a visionary approach to document that exceedingly fearful experience. A few days ago, I attempted to reanimate the event and ended up backing off at the very tip of the bridge due to the strong wind. This time I have finally succeeded in reaching the mid point and capturing the glimpse of the feel.

Although, the bridge crossing experience may seem to be rather dull from this test video (mostly owing to my walking speed with a handheld camera on the shaky bridge.), it is unquestionably a slightest nerve wrecking activity. Hence, I am even more interested in recapturing its visual impact through the Kinect vision.

For the final movie, I plan to complete crossing the entire bridge, preferably not during peak hours where there are more supersonic speed drivers, to enhance both phycological and physical effects that the Kinect imagery may give out to the viewers.

What happened at the Kim's



While I'm simultaneously figuring out the power source solutions, I decided to go on location and shopping cart huntings for the potentials themes, especially for Theme One and Five, both of which I did not chose as locations during the production of my previous Z-depth and Movement project.

The above test was shot in the morning of a Korean national holiday at a large scale local supermarket, Kim's Club, located in 고속터미널 (Express Bus Terminal). My DSLR was placed on a tripot inside of a shopping cart. Initially, I was expecting people to give me a hard time shooting there, surprisingly no one cared or even noticed which made this location an A+.

Unfortunately, the shopping cart couldn't make it home with me.

02 October 2011

Possible locations

Theme One >>Bridge<<

Theme Two >>Public transportation<<

Theme Three >>Night vision<<

Theme Four >>Local scene<<

Theme Five >>Supermarket<<


Images: Yuri Endo 2011, design inspired by David Hall

In addition to the themes that I had chosen for my past project, I have included two fresh locations on the list; Theme One: Bridge and Five: Supermarket

Alternative Z-mobile



It just came across my mind; in stead of inventing a Z-mobile myself, what if I purchased one of those which may be able to achieve something closer to what I have been desiring for? I still have to test how swiftly and stably this mini vehicle can be operated when a person on board with a laptop, kinect and possibly a power source. Nevertheless, it seems to come incredibly in handy when I need to proceed "nonchalant" film shootings in public spaces.

Looking for Mr. Goodpower






I have been seeking for Mr. Good; lightweight portable battery chargers and battery, to connect my kinect and laptop for outdoors/long distance uses.

Unfortunately all I could find up until 2 days ago were gigantic devices which were definitely not designed to be moved around to say the least. Considering myself not too much of an athlete, I wouldn't be able to even carry them around by myself, let alone testing it out "casually" in public spaces.

Today, I think I might have found a "lighter" solution thanks to Monsieur J.C. Naour. According to J.C., Kinect and laptop can be connected to DC inverter + 12V deep cycle battery which is smaller than a shoebox ( what a great description!) and can be highly portable. I'm off to the hunting.