Projection mapping solutions offer an opportunity for some of the industry’s most creative businesses to create unique canvasses from the most unsuspecting surfaces. The brilliant ones go a step further and turn these into experiences that people can enjoy, learn and never forget.
That is what projection mapping specialists Motion Mapping set out to do for the Wembly branch of Ikea. They were looking for a way to showcase their latest workspace collection that would leave visitors inspired. A video mapping projection had already been suggested, but they were yet to figure out how this might work.
IKEA is a popular global brand. They have revolutionized the home furnishing market with their modern Scandinavian designs and competitive price tags. They’re also known for their exciting showroom stores and off-the-wall marketing. This project promised to be no different.
Bringing the visual inspiration
The retailer had already seen another one of Motion Mapping’s projects and so was excited by the prospect of using a projection mapping solution to bring this part of their store to life.
Although they initially wanted something similar to the project they liked so much, the idea developed into something much greater. An immersive, attention-grabbing digital experience powered by video mapping projection.
It would bring visual drama and interest to its workspace section. Customers would be inspired and able to interact more with the environment. They wanted to do this by using a projection mapping solution.
A Speedy Project Mapping Solution
Motion Mapping had to turn this project around in just six weeks to minimise in-store disruption. The team also had to work during opening hours and were not able to shut off the nearby walkway, so had to work while customers were close by. All challenges they were up for.
Delivering a stunning video mapping projection
Motion Mapping installed a range of creative display solutions that far exceed expectations. This included an art wall made up of empty picture frames, which are filled with ever-changing animated images.
The doors of wall cupboards are now used as projection screens for amusing and informative animations, while an interactive table lets customers view a range of home workspace setups.
This is a truly immersive experience with a smart projection mapping solution at its core.
Behind the projection mapping solution
To bring this enthralling installation to life, Motion Mapping used the Datapath Fx4 Video Wall Controller and Hx4 display wall controllers, alongside solutions from Green Hippo media servers.
The Datapath Hx4 is a stand-alone display wall controller. It is a cost-effective control system which is both easy to use and simple to set up. With it, different sections of the input image can be chosen for each output and manipulated as needed. It allowed Motion Mapping to keep up with the creative minds at Ikea on the visually stunning project.
This solution is a popular choice for advertising boards, corporate signage, and live event visuals. It has the capacity to run a single 4K HDMI source across four HD outputs in ultra-high definition, making it a popular choice for all kinds of video mapping projections.
It is efficient too; a media server that needs five outputs from a graphics card is a lot more taxing and expensive without a device like the Hx4. As the entry-level model to Datapath’s X series, it offers a value-for-money splitter functionality, along with Datapath’s trusted reliability.
Motion Mapping on this projection mapping solution
Motion Mapping has extensive experience using Datapath’s range of multi-display controllers.
Stuart Harris, creative director at Motion Mapping explains: “The Hx4 is cost-effective and is more than adequate for a project like this. In fact, since the Hx4 offer such reliability and value, Motion Mapping now keeps a stock of them. It just makes sense to include one in a whole range of installs because it helps us get more out of the server.”
Alongside the Hx4, Motion Mapping used the Fx4 controller which has a dedicated DisplayPort1.2 loop through output, which allows users to link multiple devices. This is specifically designed to prevent any loss of resolution while the original capture signal remains unchanged, helping to create the multi-screen artwork and projected cupboard displays.
Motion Mapping and video mapping projection
Harris is enthusiastic about his ongoing relationship with Datapath: “Motion Mapping doesn’t buy this kind of technology from anyone else. We know that the Datapath kit is simple and reliable. It just makes everything work, and the people we speak to there are experts in their field, so they are always quick to respond to any queries.”
Harris continues: “From IKEA’s point of view the installation has been a success because dwell time has increased, and customers are much more interested in what’s on display. Other IKEA stores are also interested and paying compliments. Besides that, it has triggered IKEA into considering other potential projects and giving them ideas.”
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