Flapper3 Tech Team takes on the challenge of creating a highly-intense visual experience

Video expression has evolved with the development of technology, such as projection mapping and AR/XR technology. Flapper3 captures the trends of the times and continues to explore new "expressions" that will remain in the memories of those who see and experience them.

Flapper3's Tech Team is the one that approaches the exploration and production of new forms of expression from a technological perspective. In this article, we will introduce the role of the Tech Team and their activities to date.

Updating plans with the power of technology

The Tech Team is a small but elite technical department that was formed as flapper3 sought to create new forms of video expression that go beyond what exists on screen.

The members are producer Yugo Chiba, who has worked on spatial production for events and festivals, technical directors Yoshiki Inomata and Go Sato, who are well versed in software and devices and propose and direct projects from a technological perspective, and engineer Kazuki Kazama, who uses his skills in programming and software development to bring projects to life. Flapper3 comes from a diverse range of backgrounds, but he supports the creative team with his technical perspective.

What is important is the "planning" part - what do we want to express and what do we want to deliver to the user? The Tech Team's strength is that they view technology such as programming and software development as "one of the tools that can accelerate expression," and they approach it from the planning and producing stage.

Pursuing new visual experiences through a multifaceted approach

The Tech Team has proposed new forms of expression through technology in a variety of projects, including projection mapping, AR/XR technology, and spatial presentations incorporating interaction.

3D scanning of the projection target improves the quality of mapping production

In 2015, we were in charge of producing Kagoshima Prefecture's first full-scale projection mapping event, and we used a technique of 3D scanning the entire building to be projected and then creating the video. This enabled a more detailed expression than the mapping production at the time, when the mainstream technique was to use mapping software to synthesize building photographs.

Furthermore, in the unlikely event that the image stops, a backup system has been built to cover it. In order to ensure stable screening of the show, the power of technology is also used to support the expression from the hardware side.

A completely new form of live performance that combines the real and virtual

Flapper3 has been involved in the filming of many music events and live shows, and continues to explore new forms of live performances through a technical approach.

The virtual singer "Hatsune Miku"'s online live "MIKU EXPO 2021 Online" will be attempting an "AR Live" for the first time. Using AR technology, it is now possible to make the character appear seamlessly on a real stage with a live band performing.

Interactive spatial design creates easy-to-understand educational content

Video productions created by the Tech Team are also used in public facilities that children visit on field trips.

For example, at one waste treatment facility, we worked with a spatial design company to create a tour course that incorporated projection mapping. This allows us to explain waste treatment technology and procedures in an easy-to-understand way to children. By combining video with technology, we are also contributing to the enrichment of educational content.

Providing users with a more in-depth visual experience

The Tech Team's goal is to "deliver a more in-depth experience to users." We propose projects by thinking first about the users who will be experiencing them. To further update these projects, we have used technology to create video experiences that people will remember.

As new devices emerge and software evolves, the forms of expression and creativity will continue to change. The Tech Team will continue to take on new challenges and pursue new "expressions" that only flapper3 can provide.