SuperUber – World Cup projection mapping

SuperUber – World Cup projection mapping

The project involves sculpture design, custom software, content and lighting. Specifically made for projection, the design uses a controlled single point of view to create visual illusions.

In contrast to a traditional flat projection format, the new design highlights the evolution of projection technologies. Using a technique known as projection mapping, where images and animations are made specifically for a physical volume, the custom software created by SuperUber allows the images to be aligned precisely over each surface of the sculpture. The project creates an original dialog between the set, live video feeds, animations, software, synchronization, projection, and light design.

SuperUber created the first projection mapping set in brazilian television – and possibly a global first. It was made for Sportv’s World Cup special at the recently-inaugurated Globosat studios. The project involves sculpture design, custom software, content and lighting. The hi-tech design offers the spectator a volume of light and movement. The design is specially made for the projection and takes advantage of moments where the camera is fixed — with this controlled single point of view, the projected set creates visual illusions. The show has different dynamic projected content chosen according to the topic.

Sportv is Brazil’s largest sport television channel.

SuperUber’s technology platform allows for multiple images to be projected onto the large unconventional surface – from live video feeds mapped onto individual surfaces to large animations covering the entire set measuring 10 meters wide by 4 meters in height. Three synchronized high performance projectors ensure the best image quality.

SuperUber’s project allows for the presenters to move around the set, activating virtual windows to show video reports, live interviews, and pre-created content. The new format allows for a reporter to appear in human scale, standing upright within one of the projected columns, and interact with the presenter as if they were in the same location.

– The set design seeks a balance between aesthetics and functionality, exploring the full potential of projection mapping – explains Marcelo Pontes, SuperUber’s Architecture Director.

– The content can create optical illusions, like a ball bouncing on the surfaces or making the sculpture appear transparent as if made out of glass – explains Liana Brazil, SuperUber’s Art Director.

Russ Rive, SuperUber’s Technology Director, explains how the set requires the convergence of various specialties:

– A lot of planning went into the platform in order to make it both powerful and flexible. We created a manual for the directors and editors of the channel with suggestions on how to explore the possibilities of the innovative set to the maximum using camera angles, animations, and light design.

The result is a visually stunning hi-tech television set, with virtually unlimited possibilities. The leap in innovation will change the way television directors think about set design.

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