What I did
1. Debugging interactive devices and adjusting the range of detection values for the devices.
2. Connect Max to TouchDesigner and adjust the corresponding value ranges (the value range of sound and the parameter value range of TD are not consistent).
3. Adjust the visual artwork and ensure it is properly projected onto the screen.
4. Introduce the exhibition to the visitors who come and encourage them to try our installations.
5. Interviewing the audience and asking them about their feedback and suggestions regarding the exhibition.
6. Record interview videos
Asking the audience for their feedback and suggestions helps us better understand their needs and reactions, and based on this feedback, we can improve and optimize the direction of the exhibition. It also promotes communication and interaction between us and the audience, allowing them to have a better exhibition experience. This can also make the audience feel that their opinions and suggestions are valued and respected, and they are more willing to understand the concept and purpose of the project.
Challenges Encountered
There were some miscommunications in our previous discussions, which resulted in slight differences in the triggering settings between the sound and visual components. This caused the sound and image to be out of sync. When we attempted to fix the settings, we encountered some bugs in our code, but fortunately, we were able to resolve them in the end. Additionally, the computer we were using had a low configuration, which led to frequent malfunctions in our visual files, such as unstable and delayed detection results for the Kinect and sensors in TouchDesigner. The detection range of the Kinect and ultrasonic sensors also conflicted, and as most of our sound effects relied on the triggering of the ultrasonic sensors, we had no choice but to abandon the Kinect component.
Lessons Learned and Team Collaboration
The most profound lesson learned from this exhibition is that it is essential to conduct a comprehensive exhibition test before the final presentation, just like a rehearsal before a concert. There were too many unforeseen accidents, and advance testing can give us a rough mental expectation of the final presentation effect and prepare a plan B to deal with unexpected situations. Full communication within the team is also crucial. It is necessary to ensure that everyone receives consistent information to prevent a disastrous situation caused by information gap.
Yijun Zhou
