The result of the project is a high performance three-component framework.
Each component can be applied on a case-by-case basis, individually
responding to the specific visualisation requirements and contextual
conditions. The components can also be used in sequence, moving from
rapid prototyping, through pre-visualisation, to final recording.
And they can be used in conjunction with each other, each providing
unique operational and representational features that are later combined
in post-production.
Component One:
This component comprises a singular large format film based stereo
panoramic still camera – the ROUNDSHOT Super 220VRS. Its images
offer resolutions of over 40 Megapixels, required for situations where
there is a wealth of very fine detail that needs to be represented.
Utilizing this component, animations and moving data (stereo and/or
mono) can also be added within the panoramic image during post-production
processes using the project's post-production facilities.
Component Two:
This component comprises a portable and compact medium-resolution
5 Megapixel spherical video camera – the POINT GREY RESEACH
LADYBUG. The Ladybug enables rapid prototyping to be executed in the
field or in situations where only a small portable device would be
serviceable.
ROUNDSHOT and LADYBUG cameras
Component Three:
This component comprises a custom integrated high-resolution spherical
digital video cluster - the iCinema SPHERECAM – a world first
that has an unprecedented 24 Megapixel panoramic and/or spherical
recording capability. The Spherecam system is comprised of an omni-directional
multi-camera head, mounting plates, tripod, and an Ambisonic microphone
and recording racks. Its latest generation CCD color cameras allow
the capturing of ultra-high resolution panoramic or spherical omni-directional
images in full video/cinematic frame rates. Image sensing, capturing
and recording are all in the digital domain, ensuring the best possible
image quality. The raw uncompressed data from up to twelve cameras
is streamed through capture boards directly onto hard disk arrays
(5.4 Terrabytes) within the computers located in the recording racks,
able to store up to 160 min (12 cameras, 8 bit, 25 fps).
