Tactile 3D landscapes
The approach, developed by Rohan Fisher from Charles Darwin University, uses simulation games of landscape process projected onto 3D printed landscapes. The projection-augmented landscapes look spectacular, like an animated hologram of country, they are multi-sensory and interactive, pulling people into learn and teach by providing a stage to illicit share local stories from the land.
The projection-augmented landscapes
reconfigure the way we think, interact and learn through creating multi-sensory and multi-dimensional platforms for idea exchange and play.
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Making the digital Physical
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Tactile – Physical models support multi-sensory engagement.
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Decades of research have shown that we learn through multiple pathways of interaction.
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Physical or embodied learning works for everyone.
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Creating a multidimensional world.
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Our mental maps of lived landscapes are created by moving through 3-dimensional spaces, creating our sense of place in relation to key features.
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Physical 3D Models allow us to place ourselves in country in relation to landmarks - facilitating landscape positioning and recognition.
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Projected dynamic simulations adds time as another dimension – 4D
Thinking through play
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Human/ecological systems are complex with multiple interacting biophysical and social variables.
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Playing with complexity through simulation, we can explore alternative scenarios, emergent properties and unexpected outcomes.
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Building an understanding of complex systems, experimenting and sharing ideas.
Model production
CDU's landscape knowledge visualisation lab runs a 3D printer array that allows the rapid production of large, multi-tile landscape prints.
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A standard size for the printed landscapes is around 110 x 80 cm comprised of thirty tiles. This format fits the 3D print surface in the bounds of the projection aspect ratio with room for side panel controls for interaction with the displayed view. In addition to the production of the physical landscapes, we develop custom simulation models and interactive interfaces. An example of an interface designed to illustrate a complex array of modelled data can be seen in the work conducted for The Pacific Community.
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The final product provided to clients includes all the projection and mounting equipment custom engineered to allow the simple and mobile use of the projection-augmented landscapes.
