Randstad Creates Immersive Experience Center with PIXERA
The internationally acclaimed Dutch HR services provider, Randstad, recently opened their new immersive experience center at their HQ in Diemen, close to Amsterdam. Both the size and state-of-the-art technology employed for the realization of the ambitious project make this venue a unique installation destined to set a new standard across the corporate world. The experience center was designed to support the organic creation of meaningful connections between new talent, clients and Randstad employees, virtually or in person. Up to 180 visitors can comfortably fit into the experience center on site at the Randstad HQ, with the possibility of adding a virtually unlimited number of online viewers.
The Dutch AV service provider Bourgonje acted as the main technical system integrator for the groundbreaking corporate installation, employing a total of seven PIXERA four and one PIXERA mini media server systems in the process. A variety of content sources can be accessed, combined, played out and fully controlled with the PIXERA based setup, that was programmed by Sander De Schrijver, Dave Vos and Sebastiaan Genz. Unreal engine content, linear content or Purple’s Hyro storytelling content (via NDI) can all be used in the experience center to allow the presentations to reach a new level of immersive depth.
Live content and online meeting platforms such as Webex and Google Meet are fully integrated so that hybrid events can be streamed live from the experience center in Diemen to all over the world. The ability to seamlessly display informative high-resolution graphics and video content across a large surface area can also help presenters to visualize complex topics and stimulate engaging discussions. Using the experience center as a full XR studio, Randstad can render real-time virtual worlds to create innovative and impactful online experiences, whether as a live broadcast or recording, which enables Randstad employees to fully explore their creativity in inspirational new ways.
The main display setup consists of a large 6400 pixel wide ROE Ruby indoor LED screen with a 2.3mm pixel pitch and an additional 4mm pitch LED floor display, combined with Panasonic PTZ cameras and eight Epson projectors with 20,000 lumens each, that allow for a plethora of virtual scenes to be displayed and recorded. PIXERA proved to be the crucial technology solution for integrating the great variety of high end systems on site. Virtual set extensions were combined with PIXERA’s “sidecar” capability, referring to its handling Unreal content input via a texture sharing approach. Real-time tracking was also integrated into the PIXERA based workflow by using FreeD and Stage Precision solutions to fully automate the XR studio.
Projections onto the three projection screens on site were calibrated with VIOSO technology, that has been natively integrated into the PIXERA system. Full control of cameras, switching, audio and all lighting fixtures on site was also made possible, even allowing color presets to be automatically loaded with PIXERA control and multiple touchscreens with branded UIs (user interfaces). All in all, PIXERA controls a total of over 100 devices of the final setup. The event solution has been fully automated in such a way everyone is able to control all features in XR settings or even in normal presentation broadcasts without having many technicians operating the system on site. The setup has been designed that just one or two persons can have the full control of the audio, video and lightning systems after a short briefing.
Bourgonje’s project designer Sebastiaan Genz praises Randstad’s creative vision: “It’s an absolute privilege to work for clients that have clear goals and really mean it when they say, that they want to set new standards in the world of corporate presentations. One of the main tools we used to realize Randstad’s vision was AV Stumpfl’s PIXERA system, that proved a great choice, both in terms of hardware performance and real-time show control capabilities.”
Pixotope Virtual Production Education Program Expands to the U.S.
Pixotope, a leading software platform for end-to-end realtime virtual production solutions, recently announced that Husson University has joined the Pixotope Education Program, the company’s educational and community-building initiative designed to help enable the next generation of virtual production talent. The global program will bring cutting-edge, Hollywood-tested tools to Maine’s only extended reality Bachelor of Science degree program.
As the first U.S.-based education program partner, the addition of Husson marks the program’s expansion across the Atlantic, further enhancing its ability to tackle the growing need for virtual production expertise by providing access to the necessary technology and industry experts. Other Pixotope Education Program partners include England’s University of Gloucestershire, the Netherlands’ Hanzehogeschool Groningen, Italy’s Apulia Digital Maker, Singapore’s Ngee Ann Polytechnic and Taiwan’s Hsing Wu University.
Based in Bangor, ME, Husson is unique in that it is the only university in the state to offer a four-year Bachelor of Science degree in extended reality (XR) in their School of Technology and Innovation. The XR degree prepares students for various careers in extended reality with a focus on XR software development, 3-D drafting and modeling, XR systems, XR research and development, and more. Because of the diverse nature of XR, students are also introduced to areas like user experience, interactive design, and video and audio production. This program is an option in addition to degrees in software development and computer information systems.
“XR is one of the most exciting new technologies. It all comes down to empowering students, from many different fields, and helping them understand the power of XR and how it can be applied to their area of study,” says Brave Williams, iEX Center director and associate professor at Husson University. “This new technology is going to impact all facets of business, research, arts, sciences, and entrepreneurial activities in the near future.”
Husson’s testing and evaluation process is made possible by the iEX Center, an innovation hub that develops solutions using extended reality experiences like virtual and augmented reality. Dedicated to the full expression of XR technology, the iEX Center is a critical pillar of Husson University’s curriculum. The wealth of information and industry resources provided by the Pixotope Education Program, combined with the capabilities of iEX Center, ensures that both students and faculty understand the benefits and limitations, of XR and related technology.
“One of the things that’s really exciting about Pixotope is its powerful yet simple integrations and interface,” adds Williams. “Pixotope has created a simple tool that channels powerful and complex capabilities into a user-friendly package. It’s so easy to use, that I feel comfortable utilizing it in my introductory classes.” As the University researched virtual production technologies, Husson looked for tools that offered an easy entry point for beginners and fostered incrementally advanced experiences with professional results.
“There’s an urgent need across industries for professionals who are trained in virtual production. Unfortunately, accessibility and skillsets continue to be barriers,” says Pixotope Education Program Manager Carina Schoo. “Husson’s XR program, paired with their approach to evaluating the latest technologies, makes them a perfect partner for this educational program. Together, we will work to ensure that students gain a robust and grounded understanding of virtual production that they can leverage across different industries, utilizing skillsets that can be applied to marketing, communications, computer science, filmmaking and beyond.” More information at www.pixotope.com.
AOTO Electronics and Mediatrade Oy Transform Finland TV Station with Cutting-Edge XR Studio
In the ever-evolving landscape of television production, the pursuit of innovation drives the creation of captivating content and immersive viewer experiences. Recently, a collaboration between AOTO Electronics and Mediatrade Oy in Finland resulted in a XR (Extended Reality) TV studio for Grassmark Oy, brought to life with the state-of-the-art CV1.5 series LED panels. The collaboration between AOTO Electronics and Mediatrade Oy brought together two industry leaders renowned for their cutting-edge technologies and expertise. AOTO Electronics, a global provider of LED display solutions, has consistently pushed the boundaries of visual innovation. Mediatrade Oy is a pioneer in broadcast solutions, offering a spectrum of services to enhance the production quality of media content.
The AOTO Electronics’ CV1.5 series, known for its exceptional performance and reliability, was chosen as the foundation for the XR TV studio as the product combines exceptional image quality, color accuracy, and reliability, making it the ideal canvas for the XR studio’s virtual landscapes. AOTO CV1.5 series LED screens are equipped with Mini LED technology that ensures heightened stability and reliability. This technology also effectively suppresses moiré effects, making it in-camera friendly. The nearly 180° viewing angle ensures clearer visions for an immersive experience, while the 110% NTSC and HDR capabilities result in superior brightness and color quality. From news broadcasts that transport anchors to the heart of the story to entertainment shows that blend reality and fantasy seamlessly, the XR TV studio for Grassmark Oy, opens the door to limitless creative potential. More information at www.aoto.com
4Wall, ZeroSpace, and disguise Host Virtual Production Accelerator in New York
The synergy of innovation and creativity took center stage in New York as 4Wall Entertainment joined forces with ZeroSpace and disguise, to deliver a Virtual Production Accelerator training program. Located at ZeroSpace’s state-of-the-art production facilities in Brooklyn, the 4-day hands-on training program provided an unrivaled learning environment. As 4Wall Entertainment, ZeroSpace, and disguise continue their shared commitment to empowering the next generation of virtual production professionals, they are already planning for future iterations of this transformative program.
Mathew Leland, VP of Special Projects at 4Wall Entertainment, expressed his enthusiasm for this pioneering collaboration. “We were truly amazed by the diverse array of professionals who signed up for the program,” he said. “From seasoned filmmakers looking to expand their skill set to emerging talents eager to make their mark in the industry, the passion and dedication of every participant were evident throughout our time together.” Leland also emphasized, “We firmly believe that the skills and insights gained during the VPA will serve as a powerful foundation for their future endeavors. Armed with newfound knowledge and creative vision, these talented professionals are well-equipped to shape the future of storytelling and revolutionize the entertainment industry.”
DVS Introduces its Next-Generation VIZRA Series LED Video Panels
DVS has introduced the all-new, next-generation VIZRA series LED video panels where performance, function, and value are prioritized. In a lightweight design, it comes with a wealth of innovative hardware features that enhance reliability, durability, and ease of use. It also incorporates new optical innovations with the latest image processing technologies to meet the unique needs of discerning LED display users across all market segments.
The Vizra series was designed from the ground up with DVS R&D experts developing an entirely proprietary chassis, resulting in a modular LED video panel meticulously detailed in design. It incorporates the latest advancements and innovations, standardizing premium features that are key to better image quality, longevity and ease of use. It also comes with a competitive price point.
Vizra is available for both indoor and temporary outdoor [IP65 rated] applications. All models are offered in both 500x500mm (19×19”) and 500x1000mm (19×39”) panel sizes, which are cross-compatible so users can freely combine panels to build any screen size based on their panel preference. Each model is available in Standard and Plus+ performance variants, with products offerings of 2.9mm, 3.9mm and 4.8mm resolutions.
Vizra Plus+
Designed for critical applications or high-spec requirements, the performance driven Vizra Plus+ variants standardize high-level specification options with maximized performance to best suit a discerning user’s application without concerns of underperformance. Vizra Plus+ incorporates broadcast-grade, MacroBlock MBI IC driver chips allowing a further increased 7,680Hz refresh rate. Outdoor models of Vizra Plus+ are standard equipped with ultra-high-output, high-efficiency Goldwire LEDs allowing output levels up to 6,500 NITS with no increase in power consumption. All Plus+ models include the flagship NovaStar A10S Pro receiving card enabling the full suite of advanced processing features including 22Bit+ Image Boost, HDR10/HLG, Ultra Low-Latency Support, and more. Vizra Plus+ models are alternatively configurable for Brompton processing.
Meticulous Hardware Details
The Vizra LED panels integrate new hardware features for road-ready durability and user-friendliness in the field. An integrated magnetic alignment system incorporates heavy-duty magnets at the top of each panel to help align and temporarily hold a panel in place until the locks are engaged. Grip handles are strategically placed for both panel sizes so a single user can easily align and position with one hand, then engage the locks with the other, reducing arm and shoulder strain. The 500×1000 versions include an additional set of heavy-duty climbing handles so users can climb the back of the screen for easier access. Even with these unique features, Vizra continues to maintain a lightweight design at 15.4 lbs / 7kg (500x500mm) and 26 lbs / 12kg (500x1000mm).
Curving locks are standard equipped on all models for full design flexibility. Featuring a rotating lock with predefined flat/convex/concave angles. The side and top locks are precisely fitted to the panel chassis, designed to provide simple operation with haptic-like clicks and indicators to give users confirmation that each lock is securely engaged. Attention to detail continues to accessories. Rigging bars are dually capable of ground stacking and flying. Featuring an integrated D-ring for flying and adjustable leveling feet for ground stacking that can each retract into the rigging bar when not in use based on the rigging method as opposed to being fully removed. TRUE1-compatible power connectors are standard across all models, both indoor and outdoor.
The Latest Optics
With numerous advancements in LED technology in recent years, Vizra incorporates key advancements resulting in significant improvements in optical image performance. Indoor models are standard equipped with high-contrast, blackface SMD LEDs delivering an 8,000:1 contrast ratio at 1,000 NITS. Outdoor models incorporate new high-output, low-profile SMD LEDs starting at 5,000 NITS with a 5,000:1 contrast ratio. Vizra offers an increased 4,880Hz refresh rate for an even smoother image movement and enhanced on-camera performance. A NovaStar A5S Plus receiving card is included featuring the latest firmware compliance to ensure optimal compatibility with NovaStar’s new COEX / VMP processor line.
The Vizra series includes a 5-year US-based warranty. More at www.dvsledsystems.com.
