Part I - Project Overview: Deep Mirror
Deep Mirror is an interactive installation where users manipulate parameters in a 2D interface and a physical scale model to influence a generative AI system. By rearranging the model's modular components and rotating its base, participants trigger a real-time digital transformation, viewed in a projection of the generated image on the wall. In the 2D interface, users apply 'Operational Atmospheres' (dynamic layers of light, texture, and materiality) to the captured image of physical forms, exploring the boundary between tactile construction and digital AI imagination.
Credits
Concept & Art Direction: sandroid (Sandro Canavezzi)
Software Development: sandroid (Sandro Canavezzi)
Physical Fabrication: sandroid (Sandro Canavezzi) and Lara Menezes.
Technical Specifications
1. The Control Interface (DeepMirror System)
- Hardware: 32-inch (with capacitive touch screen if possible)
- Interface: Custom UI featuring sliders and buttons for 'Operational Atmospheres' (Atmospheric parameters, material shaders, and lighting presets).
- Surface Mode (“BÁSICO”): Friendly, preset-based interaction for general audiences.
- Deep Mode (“AVANÇADO”): Refined control over latent space parameters and prompt weightings. (Both interfaces can be accessed by the audience. They are easily switchable).
2. The Interactive Object (Input Unit)
- The core of the installation is a physical scale model designed for tactile exploration.
- Structure: A lightweight wireframe skeleton made of stainless steel/aluminum rods.
- Panels: Modular inserts of high-density colored cardstock and acrylic in primary and secondary colors (Cyan, Yellow, Red, Orange, White).
- Base: A CNC-machined plywood circular base with an integrated high-precision bearing system allowing 360° rotation.
- Sensing: An internal micro-camera (4K/60fps) mounted within the structure or on a fixed arm to capture 'internal' perspectives of the model.
3. Computing & AI Engine
- A- For running the Deep Mirror app and the Touch Design integration: Processing Unit: High-end Workstation (Minimum: NVIDIA RTX 4090 GPU, 64GB RAM, i9 Processor). Standart/basic screen, keyboard and mouse for set up access.
- Software Stack: Custom Electron-based environment, TouchDesigner integration, StreamDiffusion (SD-turbo/ControlNet for real-time inference).
- B- For running the Deth Real Time Mapping (image transmited to the Deep Mirror app + TD via NDI): Processing Unit: High-end Workstation (Minimum: NVIDIA RTX 4030 GPU, 32GB RAM, i9 Processor) Standart/basic screen, keyboard and mouse for set up access.
- Software Stack: DeapthAnything /NDI TouchDesigner integration
2. Architectural & Spatial Requirements
Space Footprint
The installation requires a minimum dedicated area of 15m² (approx. 4m x 3.7m) to allow for two tables and visitor flow.
- Table A (The Object): 100cm x 100cm. Height: 75cm (Standing height).
- Table B (The Interface): 120cm x 80cm. Height: 75cm-cm.
- Projection Wall: A flat, white, or neutral gray wall (minimum 3m width) located behind the tables for the primary visual output.
Lighting & Environment
- Ambient Light: Controlled environment required. Avoid direct sunlight or strong overhead spotlights on the object to prevent camera glare.
- Internal Lighting: The object uses localized dimmable LED 'key lights' to ensure the camera maintains enough contrast for image processing (provided by the user).
Electrical & Connectivity Requirements
| Component | Quantity | Power Requirement | Connection Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Workstation PC | 2 | 850W - 1000W | - |
| 32” screen | 1 | 150W | HDMI + USB (Data) |
| Main Projector | 1 | 400W (Min. 5000 Lumens) | HDMI |
| Micro-Camera | 1 | Powered via USB | USB 3.0 / USB-C |
Internet: A stable Wifi connection (Minimum 50Mbps) is required for the NDI transmition and remote monitoring and potential API-based AI model updates.
Maintenance & Logistics
- Set-up Time: 6 hours (including calibration of the AI vision system).
- Maintenance: Daily dusting of the model panels.
- Consumables: The colored paper panels are modular and may need replacement if damaged by heavy physical use; a 'maintenance kit' of pre-cut panels will be provided.
