Design considerations to advance the accessibility of the fulldome media environment
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School of Arts, Design and Architecture |
Master's thesis
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Date
2021
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Mcode
Degree programme
Master's Programme in New Media
Language
en
Pages
97 + 11
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Abstract
Established research in the field of fulldome production asserts that this media environment offers an unparalleled sense of immersion through its all-encompassing, hemispherical format. It is described as an intense experiential space that dissolves physical and virtual boundaries, thereby facilitating presence in another world. The lack of a traditional screen and frame means the audience does not watch the content; they experience the environment personally. Much of the existing research on fulldome production focuses primarily on large permanent domes and the subsequent media production, which can cost millions. Considering smaller, less expensive domes are becoming an increasingly popular alternative, it is essential to investigate their distinctive advantages and constraints. The objective of this research is twofold: First, it seeks to increase the affordability of the medium through (a) documenting the fabrication of a dome constructed from relatively inexpensive materials and (b) producing fulldome animations utilizing open source archival imagery. Second, via a usability test, it strives to ascertain whether the experience of this media environment proves immersive, like larger fulldome environments. The research process began with a literature review establishing an assemblage of best practices within fulldome theatre fabrication and filmmaking. Then, a small-scale fulldome theater, approximately five meters in diameter, was constructed, and methods of the assembly were documented. Next, three short, animated, fulldome films were produced. Subsequently, the installation of the projection and user interface were implemented and chronicled. Lastly, a Retrospective Think Aloud usability test was conducted and analyzed. The construction of the dome and approximately nine minutes of animated media was completed in ten months for a cost of approximately 5,000 euros. Additionally, a user interface was developed that allows participants to control the playback of the animations inside the dome. Results of the usability test suggested a majority of participants reported feelings of immersion, although some drawbacks were also identified. While the number of participants is a limitation of the research, their interviews provide a valuable exploration of the benefits and deficiencies of the medium. In conclusion, this research indicates that a small-scale fulldome environment can be an effective canvas for immersive experiences. Furthermore, documentation of the production of the small-scale fulldome environment and filmmaking methodology can aid in future design considerations of this deeply experiential space.Description
Supervisor
Niinimäki, MattiThesis advisor
Kauppinen, TomiKeywords
fulldome, filmmaking, immersion, animation, planetarium, immersive virtual environment