GENZŌ Epson Projector Concept
A Seamlessly Integrated Smart Projector - Spring 2019
2nd Place Winner
Epson X CSULB Sponsored Project
This project gave me the opportunity to work alongside Epson’s North American and Japanese product teams for four weeks, receiving critique and feedback on a project concept. The brief was to look 3-4 years into the future and develop a new design for a commercial projector utilized in markets such as retail, hospitality, bars, entertainment, amusement, museums, zoos and educational applications.
the idea
The technique of projection mapping has the ability to captivate an audience, however may be difficult to achieve due to complicated methods of calibration and mounting.
With the intent of revolutionizing retail, the goal of GENZŌ is to create a projector that seamlessly blends into its surroundings while aiding the user in implementing intriguing and beautiful displays.
*examples of projection mapping displayed to the right
PROJECT SPECIFIC BRIEFING
The PROBLEM
Projection technology used in retail spaces is where the future is heading, however standard projector forms and functions are stuck in the past.
The GOAL
A projector that simplifies the process of incorporating projection into displays, making it more user friendly, while not disrupting the atmosphere of the retail space.
The OBJECTIVES
Keep the magic alive (hidden projectors create a feeling of whimsy and mystery), and incorporate features that aid the user in calibration and implementing projection mapping.
form objectives
With the intent of either blending into a room or standing out as a statement piece, a simple form was the key to creating a design with the ability to disappear into the space, but is also versatile enough to contrast the room and become a visual statement.
Ideation
To break away from the standard form and mounting technique of current projectors, I explored a forms inspired by lighting fixtures. Collaboration with Epson North America representatives brought me to the solution of incorporating intake vents on the front of the projector and output vents on the back, dictating vent design cues.
mock-ups
The mockup I made for a mid-review with the Epson representatives allowed me to show the scale of my concept. Through presenting this model as a concept, I received feedback on the vent placement and mounting techniques.
features
GENZŌ
The word GENZŌ means phantom or illusion in Japanese, and that is exactly the feeling this projector portrays. Recessed into the wall, GENZŌ can camouflage into its environment, creating a visual illusion when projecting onto surfaces.
GENZŌ takes a form that is minimal and effortlessly integrated into various environments and scenarios. With installation similar to recessed lighting, walls and ceilings inset with projectors could be a game changer for retail displays.
First the LiDAR sensors scan the room and calculate the position of the 3D object that the user intends to projection map onto. The projector then calibrates itself, utilizing its gimbal articulation, to accurately execute projection mapping automatically.
LiDAR 3D Scanning
Projection Mapping Graphics
Stand up mounting
An alternative way to mount GENZŌ is on the floor or a tabletop surface. The circular faceplate can be set into a stainless steel stand, allowing for more mobility and versatility.
colorways
prototype
why genz
Ō
Defying the expectations of what a projector is supposed to look like, GENZŌ is unobtrusive to its environment while creating a more user friendly system of projection mapping for retail displays.