LightStruct

Studio R&D

LightStruct turns a labor-intensive calibration process into a repeatable studio workflow. It reflects my practice of developing original tools for project-specific technical challenges.

The Workflow Problem

Projection and laser mapping typically use separate workflows. Each output is aligned independently and then connected through additional calibration and custom setup. Complexity grows across sculpture, architecture, natural terrain, and other irregular surfaces. Moving the equipment or object can require rebuilding those mappings from the beginning.

LightStruct creates one shared 3D representation of the physical surface for both outputs.

Shared Geometry for Projection and Laser

The central output is a single 3D mesh. Every point stores its 3D position, the projector pixel that reaches it, and the laser coordinates that target it. Both outputs inherit their coordinates from the same geometry.

This makes interactions between projected imagery and physical laser light straightforward. A projected effect can guide the laser to the same place on the object. In the other direction, the laser can trigger projected trails, ripples, or other visuals wherever it moves. The mesh stores the spatial connection for every effect.

TouchDesigner Workflow

Custom C++ operators keep scanning, calibration, and mapping inside TouchDesigner. PatternCaptureTOP runs the scan, while ProjectorMapPOP creates the shared mesh. That mesh feeds directly into a visual network or laser system, keeping the complete workflow inside TouchDesigner.

How It Works

A projector casts a sequence of structured-light patterns while a camera records how they fall across the surface. LightStruct uses those images to reconstruct the object in 3D and determine which projector pixel reaches each point. A laser calibration then adds the matching ILDA coordinates. If the equipment or object moves, the complete calibration can run again in about 10 minutes.

Current Status

LightStruct is currently an internal tool and an active R&D platform. I can bring it to projects that need coordinated projection and laser mapping on complex surfaces. Future development includes exploring distribution to other artists and creative technologists.