Controllers

One of the purposes behind MI is to provide the means for display and performance of new, independant collaborative art and technologies.

PHP, SE and DBE have been working together to provide these means for true interactive, collaborative performances - Performers affecting the environment affecting the audience affecting the performers.

Displayed above is a collection of controller prototypes, currently being used in performance, soon to be available to other interested performers. The "Arm Controllers" detect various joint movements and angles. When combined with the "Controller Engine" (shown below) free-form movements of dancers and musicians generate (in one case) MIDI data which can be used to control audio, video and environmental effects.

Roll/Pitch/Yaw Controller

• Description: 3-D Gyro system - produces 3 absolute continuous outputs. Calibration is internal; fine calibration is performed at the "engine" level; Water resistant. The RPY Controller is generally used for continuous spacial effects (audio pan, lighting intensity/color, robotic remote, etc).
• Status: Functional Prototype
• Specs: 2" x 2"; 9V battery; attached to a fingerless glove
• Protocol: Resistive; Generally used with the CE to convert to MIDI or Serial.
• Future: Wireless and resale models in the works

Gravitational Angle Controller

• Description: 1-D pendulum system - produces 1 absolute continuous output measuring absolute angle with the Earth. Two GACs are Generally used to form a pair of continuous vertical effects (audio volume, light intensity, robotic remote of two sources)
• Status: Functional Prototype
• Specs: 1" x .5" disc; passive; attaches with one velcro strap
• Protocol: Resistive; Generally use with the CE to convert to MIDI or Serial.

Linear Joint Controller

• Description: 1-D linear system - produces 1 absolute continous output. The LJC is part of the "Art Controller" series - modeled after the hydrolic elbow drivers on sci-fi robots. It measures the linear distance between the forearm and bicep which is easily mapped to the elbow angle. While this controller inhibits movement, it is still more flexible than the GAC as it it has no side effects (from, say shoulder movement) or transient effects induced by vigorous movement. The LJC is generally used in the same context as the GAC.
• Status: Prototype
• Specs: .5" x 3" cylinder; passive; attaches with two velcro straps
• Protocol: Resistive; Generally use with the CE to convert to MIDI or Serial.

Radial Joint Controller

• Description: 1-D linear system - produces 1 absolute continous output. The RJC is also part of the "Art Controller" series - modeled after hedge clippers. It measures the actual angle of the elbow angle. This controller inhibits movement slightly less than the LJC and is used in the same context as the LJC and GAC
• Status: Prototype
• Specs: .5" x 2" disc with two 5" extensions; passive; attaches with two velcro straps
• Protocol: Resistive; Generally use with the CE to convert to MIDI or Serial.

Percussion Controllers

• Description: Not shown here are the PHP/SE Percussion Controllers. This concept is not new. In fact most of the controllers are modeled after traditional drum/percussion triggers or pads. The difference is in the flashy coloring, attachments, mobility and water (goop) resistance.

Other Controllers

• Thermometers & Weather Balloons - For atmostpheric control; the parts have been purchased...
• Internet Interation Controllers - Interactivity with remote audiences is key in a multimedia performance. Web server (and browser client) control of MIDI and serial devices is currently in the works. Prototypes will be used in '96 shows. See the "Studio Hub" page on the CD for more info..

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• Description: The Controller Engine, whose purpose is to convert continuous controller levels to useful MIDI data is one of three PHP/SE custom performance transducers. The CE is fine-tuned to interface with the "Arm Controller" and full "Art Controller" series and has the advantage of being compact, durable and water/goop resistant.
• Status: 2 Functional Prototypes
• Specs: 2" x 12" x 6" and 1-space 19" rack; 6 AA or 9V DC Supply
• Protocol: MIDI
• Future: Wireless and resale models in the works