Date of Award
6-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Publisher
Santa Clara : Santa Clara University, 2024
Department
Electrical and Computer Engineering
First Advisor
Andy Wolfe
Abstract
The world of theater is unpredictable. We prepare as best we can, but at run-time, we know anything could happen and we must be prepared for it. This unpredictability is what stands between theater and automation. In almost every situation, a human can respond better to surprise changes than a computer can, but what about situations that prohibit the use of a human operator? One such example is that of follow spotlights, where a performer must be lit with a beam that follows them as they move across the stage. Sometimes, there is no room for a full spot booth, or the desired effects are so complex that one or more human operators will not suffice. Using a Raspberry Pi controller, a Pi camera module, and a DMX interface, this project addresses this need and will enable anyone to automate their spotlights. With intelligent infrared tracking locating beacon arrays mounted externally on a performer’s costume, this module will advance any moving light to the status of an automatic spotlight. Once installed, automatic tracking will be available to any theater company, not just big-name tour firms or mainstage Broadway theaters. Further development in this area could even allow multiple-performer tracking with a single camera or even 3D multiple-performer tracking with two cameras.
Recommended Citation
Wiley, Clayton, "Automating Theater Lamp Control Using PI Vision" (2024). Electrical and Computer Engineering Senior Theses. 100.
https://scholarcommons.scu.edu/elec_senior/100
