Description
My involvement in the project was reasonably early in its development, the concept had already gone through several iterations, with several hardware choices being made already. I was contracted to
support the project through R&D, by designing a system for content management and remote operation of the system and internal networking inside the housing.
My Direct Contributions
The Content Management
The content management was done onsite by a Brightsign, this brightsign uses its own propriety software over the internal network to manage content scheduling and timing
The Operating System
Content is handled via remote desktop access over traffic managed connection to a barebone NUC, this NUC has its desktop configured to allow it direct display control over the Projector, Audio Mixer, and brightsign(The brightsign will operate in a recovery mode if it doesn't get a direct signal from the NUC), also the NUC has capacity for further expansion, using its GPIO bus to control relays, or use sensors
The Networked Controller
Through the use of a Smart Router, the connection is managed on a subnet, there is only one point of access into the enclosure and it is restricted by specific access protocals, governed by the local council regulations
Outcomes
During the year's since its installation, the project has been used several times with content that is impactiful and engaging, It completes its objective of creating a more safe defensible space in a previously undesirable public space.
The City of Newcastle though the Hamilton BIA, through contract with ArtThinking Australia still actively supports and funds creative vision through this installation, if you would like to participate, use the links below to explore further.
