Projection Mapping
Like every industry, mapping Industry also has
its own set of “hard to understand” terms. PALM Technology is presenting an exhaustive
list of Glossary used in projection mapping along with concise definitions of the
technical terms, to aid in better understanding mapping concepts.
3D Projection Mapping: Also known as augmented reality, it is the art of
creating projected visual effects, by altering and distorting content, to fit
on not only smooth surfaces, but three-dimensional objects like buildings,
screens, cars etc. The projection can be static or dynamic.
3D visualization: The process of creating computer-based video content
for stimulating a lighting project, leading to a realistic impression.
Architectural Mapping: Projection mapping on exteriors such as buildings,
containing content designed to highlight the building’s architectural features
like outlining windows, bricks, etc.
Activation: A commonly used event industry term to describe projection
mapping displays/installations.
Beamer: Slang for projector.
Cartography: Cartography or mapping is defined as the mediation and
visualization of spatial information for different media with digital and
analog technologies.
Content: The ideas or media being projected during a mapping
display.
Content, Abstract: Also referred to as “stock effects” or “filler
effects”, it is visual content not specially designed for a particular
surface.
Design Surface: The area covered by the design during a projection
mapping.
DMX / DMX512: A Digital Multiplex, it is the standard used for
traditional lighting effects. Projection mapping software can be integrated
into a DMX512 “universe” to coordinate visuals to lighting.
Digital Visual Interface: Frequently called DVI, it is a common kind
of HD-ready connection and cable used in projection, mostly used in
professional applications.
Edge Blending: Also called Blending Technology, it is a technology which
lets you project an image onto a surface using multiple projectors, if one
projector is not efficient to cover the screen size, without creating an
overlap effect. This can be achieved with the help of projectors which are
equipped with edge blending function or by using special software that allows
this effect.
Fog Projection: Projecting on an indoor or outdoor screen made of fog,
to create a 3 dimensional effect.
Globe Projection: Projecting an image onto a spherical object, to create
a three-dimensional visual highlight without image distortion.
HDMI: A common kind of High-Definition Multimedia Interface used in
projection.
Imagery: An interplay of shapes and colors, to create or convey a new
perspective.
Interactive Projection: An interactive projection wherein a floor, a
wall, or even a table becomes an experimental area allowing the viewer to
interact with the projection as an active moving part of the
installation.
Large Venue Projector: A broad term used to describe high-brightness
projectors, generally over 12,000 lumens in brightness. The three most common
brands of projectors used in large venue applications are manufactured by
Christie, Barco, and Panasonic.
Large-screen Projection: A projection in image sizes of up to even 100
meters using ultra-bright projectors.
Lumens: A standard measurement of projector brightness. An average
projector is ~3,000 lumens. Most large-venue projectors used in projection
mapping are 20,000 lumens or brighter.
Media Server: A stand-alone projection mapping system which includes a
mapping software and for content mapping and is designed for consistent
playback. Can also refer to a computer optimized for playback of video content
in high resolution. Its main parameters are: powerful graphic card and
corresponding digital connections for video output.
Mapping Display: Usually refers to a one-time projection mapping
show.
Mapping Software: A software that can create mapping effects by
altering and distorting projection content in real time.
MIDI: MIDI or Musical Instrument Digital Interface is a kind of digital
interface that allows external “controllers”, such as piano keyboards or
lighting consoles, to interact with projection mapping software.
Projector: The equipment that projects images onto a surface with rays
of light. A projector includes its own light source, an imaging plane and a
lens that allows the imaging plane to be sharply displayed on the screen.
Projection Mapping Installation: A mapping display intended and designed
for semi-permanent or permanent application and use.
Projection Template: An object located in a projector and displayed on
to a projection surface.
Resolution: Refers to the number of pixels that compose an image. The
number of pixels affects the image sharpness or level of detail of the image
perception. Higher the resolution, sharper the image.
Scaler: A standalone device used to convert unusual video signals in a
signal flow.
Screen Gain: Refers to the measurement of the screen’s brightness when
projected upon. Higher gain screens offer better brightness, while lower gain
screens offer better image fidelity.
Short Throw Projector: A projector with a lens designed to be used short
distance from a projection surface and normally creates a much larger
projected image than other projectors at the same distance.
Surface: The body that is being projected onto during a projection
mapping display. This can include buildings, screens, objects, etc.
Spatial Augmented Reality: Refers to projection mapping. Due to use of
3D surfaces, the projection seems to be an “augmentation” of physical
space.
Throw Ratio: The measurement of the width of a projector’s image.
VGA: VGA or Video Graphics Array is an outdated cable used for older
model projectors and cannot carry HD images.
Video Mapping: Refers to projection mapping.
VJ: Refers to a Video Jockey who mixes video sources in real time to
create a new kind of show staging. Projection mapping using 2D and 3D elements
is a key part of the sets of Modern VJ’s.
Window Treatment: A surface treatment applied to glass windows to allow
them to be used as a projection surface, which is not possible otherwise.