Researchers at Tokyo Tech developed a high-speed, robust face-tracking and projection mapping system. It uses a combination of infrared structured light and a high-speed projector to achieve precise and low-latency projection onto dynamically moving faces, even with rapid head movements and facial expressions. This allows for real-time augmented reality applications directly on the face, such as virtual makeup, emotional expression enhancement, and interactive facial performance. The system overcomes the limitations of traditional projection mapping by minimizing latency and maintaining accurate registration despite motion, opening possibilities for more compelling and responsive facial AR experiences.
Artist David Bowen's "Tele-present Wind" installation physically translates real-time wind data from a remote location to the movements of a robotic arm holding a flag. The arm's joints are mapped to the wind speed and direction captured by an anemometer, recreating the flag's flutter as if it were directly experiencing the distant wind. This creates a tangible, kinetic representation of a remote weather phenomenon, bridging the gap between distant locations through technology and art.
Hacker News users discussed the artistic merit and technical implementation of David Bowen's "Tele-Present Wind" project. Some praised the elegant simplicity of the concept and its effective conveyance of remote environmental conditions. Others questioned the artistic value, finding it more of an interesting technical demo than a compelling piece of art. Several commenters delved into the technical specifics, discussing the choice of motors, potential improvements to the system's responsiveness, and the challenges of accurately representing wind force and direction. The use of real-time data and the potential for experiencing distant environments resonated with many, while some debated the meaning and implications of digitally mediated natural experiences. A few users also mentioned similar projects they had seen or worked on, highlighting the growing interest in combining technology and nature in artistic endeavors.
The blog post "Das Blinkenlights" details the author's project to recreate the iconic blinking LED display atop the Haus des Lehrers building in Berlin, a symbol of the former East Germany. Using readily available components like an Arduino, LEDs, and a custom-built replica of the original metal frame, the author successfully built a miniature version of the display. The project involved meticulously mapping the light patterns, programming the Arduino to replicate the sequences, and overcoming technical challenges related to power consumption and brightness. The end result was a faithful, albeit smaller-scale, homage to a piece of history, demonstrating the blend of nostalgia and maker culture.
Hacker News users discussed the practicality and appeal of "blinkenlights," large-scale status displays using LEDs. Some found them aesthetically pleasing, nostalgic, and a fun way to visualize complex systems, while others questioned their actual usefulness, suggesting they often display superficial information or become mere decorations. A few comments pointed out the potential for misuse, creating distractions or even security risks by revealing system internals. The maintainability of such displays over time was also questioned. Several users shared examples of interesting blinkenlight implementations, including artistic displays and historical uses. The general consensus seemed to be that while not always practically useful, blinkenlights hold a certain charm and can be valuable in specific contexts.
Summary of Comments ( 23 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42889148
HN commenters generally expressed interest in the high frame rate and low latency demonstrated in the face-tracking and projection mapping. Some questioned the practical applications beyond research and artistic performances, while others suggested uses like augmented reality, telepresence, and medical training. One commenter pointed out potential issues with flickering and resolution limitations, and another highlighted the impressive real-time performance given the computational demands. Several expressed excitement about the possibilities of combining this technology with other advancements in AR/VR and generative AI. A few questioned the claimed latency figures, wondering if they included projector latency.
The Hacker News post titled "High-Speed Face-Tracking for Dynamic Facial Projection Mapping," linking to a project page from the Tokyo Institute of Technology, has a moderate number of comments discussing various aspects of the technology and its potential applications.
Several commenters focus on the latency demonstrated in the video, expressing both admiration and some skepticism. One points out that while the latency appears impressively low, the demonstration video is carefully controlled and likely represents ideal conditions. They question how the system would perform in more challenging scenarios with varying lighting and rapid head movements. This concern about real-world performance is echoed by another commenter who wonders about robustness to occlusions, such as someone briefly covering their face with their hand.
Another thread of discussion revolves around the potential applications of this technology. Some suggest its use in augmented reality (AR) applications, allowing for virtual makeup or masks to be realistically projected onto a user's face. Others see potential in theatrical performances and interactive art installations. A commenter proposes a more niche application: using the technology for avatar puppeteering in VTuber-style streams. This would allow for more realistic and expressive avatar movements, potentially bridging the gap between 2D and 3D avatar representations.
One commenter dives slightly deeper into the technical aspects, speculating about the methods used for face tracking. They hypothesize the use of infrared (IR) projected patterns, similar to those used in Kinect systems, combined with high-speed cameras and efficient processing algorithms. They also raise the question of calibration and whether the system needs to be recalibrated for each individual user.
The ethical implications of the technology are briefly touched upon. One commenter expresses concern about potential misuse, particularly in surveillance and facial recognition applications. They highlight the increasing sophistication of these technologies and the need for careful consideration of their societal impact.
Finally, a few comments offer alternative perspectives on the technology. One commenter mentions the "Uncanny Valley" effect and the possibility that highly realistic facial projections could be unsettling or even disturbing. Another reminds readers of similar projection mapping techniques used in Disney's Haunted Mansion ride, illustrating a long-standing interest in this type of visual effect.
In summary, the comments reflect a general appreciation for the technical achievement demonstrated in the project, coupled with a healthy dose of pragmatism regarding real-world limitations and potential ethical concerns. The discussion explores various potential applications, ranging from entertainment and AR to more unsettling possibilities in surveillance. The comments also reveal some curiosity about the underlying technical implementation and broader implications of this advancing technology.