“IllumiBeast”: An AI-Powered Mobile Projection Fleet
Image: Courtesy of Panasonic
(eap) Projection mapping makes it possible to bring building façades and other surfaces ‘to life’ by displaying visual content that can, for example, create dynamic works of art or make experiences more immersive through thematically appropriate imagery. The use of this technology involves a certain amount of effort, requiring suitable technical equipment, specialised technical teams and appropriate local conditions.
Panasonic Projector & Display Americas – a company of the Panasonic Group – and the US software developer Illumibot, who offers an AI-based projection app, have now presented an also AI-powered mobile projection solution called “IllumiBeast”. According to the companies, the solution has been specifically designed for smaller projects subject to spatial, financial and staffing constraints.
The solution consists of a Tesla Cybertruck fitted with the relevant technological equipment. The vehicle is equipped with Panasonic’s “MEVIX” laser projection technology: in this case, with a 20,000-lumen 3LCD WUXGA laser projector for large-format displays. IllumiBeast users are intended to be able to detect surfaces, generate visual content and map projections onto the respective surfaces within seconds in a simple manner – using a smartphone camera and natural-language prompts. The new development is currently making its debut as part of the celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States: over the course of 31 days, it is stopping in different US cities to showcase buildings in a special way and bring people together through the entertainment experience.
“From day one, our mission at Illumibot has been to eliminate the friction that has kept projection mapping out of reach for everyday people. By making it as simple as speaking to your phone, we’ve enabled thousands of users to experience the joy of this incredible art form in their homes, businesses, and communities. […],” said Ross Arroyo, Founder and CEO of Illumibot Inc.
Takashi Uchida, CEO of Panasonic Projector & Display Americas, added: “Projection mapping has always been one of the most powerful tools for audience engagement, but has historically required major infrastructure and specialized expertise to pull off. We’re proud to sponsor the IllumiBeast initiative and equip the fleet with MEVIX projection technology. […]”
From autumn this year, the first six IllumiBeast Cybertruck units are expected to be available for brand campaigns, live events, music and sporting events, and other applications. ■
