Definiti Projection Systems - Sky-Skan Definiti Digital Fulldome

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Definiti Projection

What to Consider

How It Works

Projection Glossary

Single-Projector SimplicityPD III, Solo, and Maestro

Incredible Value, Powerful PerformanceDuet, Compact 6, 5, 6, 6 HC, and 8

A Stunning Picture4K and 4K HC

The Excitement of 3D3D Duet, 3D 4K, and 3D 8K

The Power of 8K8K and 8K HC

The Clarity of HybridMEGASTAR

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Contents

Definiti 4K Projection SystemMuseum of Science, BostonCharles Hayden Planetarium

Definiti 6 Projection SystemQueen Mary 2 Ocean Liner

Illuminations Theater

Definiti 4K Projection SystemSongAm Stars Valley, South Korea

SongAm Space Center Planetarium

Dome image: Astronaut, produced by NSC Creative

Photo by Sam Fentress

What to ConsiderSky-Skan has consulted on planetariums and complex interactive theaters for

decades. Here are some top considerations we’ve found to be important for

choosing a digital projection system. Overall performance is always a top priority,

but be sure to consider factors like reliability, ease of installation, and value.

Performance• RESOLUTION Resolution is often

expressed by a pixel count or by pixels across the dome arc. Be sure to compare pixel counts after blending/masking (called unique pixels).

• SEAMS In multi-projector systems, seams must be properly blended to make them invisible.

• BRIGHTNESS A higher overall brightness, which is affected by dome screen reflectivity as well as lumens from projectors, is important for image fine details, color quality, and 3D stereoscopic viewing. A high-brightness projection system on a low reflectivity (or gain) screen will result in higher dome contrast. This can provide good image quality for scenes that include bright areas.

• CONTRAST/BLACK LEVEL Screen reflectivity (or gain) is the major factor affecting contrast in domes, with the exception of very dark scenes, such as a night sky without moonlight. A high-contrast projection system helps make those special dark scenes more dramatic.

Reliability and Maintenance• RELIABILITY The system should perform

consistently over the expected life of the equipment.

• MAINTENANCE The time and cost required for maintenance, such as lamp replacements, should be factored into the initial and ongoing costs of ownership.

Installation• SCHEDULE Allowing for a reasonable

period for installation, training, and familiarization with day-to-day system use ensures a successful theater opening.

• SIZE The equipment should be checked for proper dimensions to fit into the theater’s existing location or a new theater’s planned dimensions.

2.1.How It Works

Stitching Multiple ProjectorsIn medium and large Definiti theaters, multiple projectors are used to each cover a part of the dome screen. The audience doesn’t see multiple images, but one continuous picture. This is accomplished with each projector covering a different portion of the screen, like a mosaic.

Sky-Skan has developed specialized techniques for stitching projector images together. Creating invisible seams is one of the biggest benefits to choosing a Definiti projection system.

Image Warping in SoftwareA key advantage to Definiti projection systems is that image warping takes place in the DigitalSky 2 software. If a system handles warping at the projector, pixels (and detail) are lost in the process. Instead, our method maximizes both ease of use with software controls and image quality with the maximum pixels contributing to the picture.

How does the image get to the screen? This brief overview will show you the major components.

Console and Graphics ServersDigitalSky software runs on the console computer and Definiti graphics servers, connected by a network. The software has real-time databases and playback graphics that are selected to play on the system. Each graphics server sends a video signal to the projectors.

Projectors, Masking, and BlendingFrom the graphics servers, digital video cables bring the video to each projector. Instead of one projector on a rectangular screen, Definiti theaters have one or more projectors on a hemispherical screen. This requires masking and blending of the image from each projector, which is accomplished using a number of techniques.

GraphicsServers

Projection GlossaryComparing projection systems can be the toughest part of upgrading or building a theater. We’re here to help you with the terms we use on the following pages. Knowing the terms is important! For

example, if you don’t know the different ways that resolution is specified, you might assume total pixels is comparable to unique pixels. Get informed below!

If you simply add all pixels fed to all projectors you get what we call total pixels.

Because this number counts pixels not used in the dome image, it is not useful in determining resolution in the dome. The next two terms account for actual pixels that contribute to the image.

brightness

total pixels

3DREADY

TILTREADY

60FPS

3.

PORTABLEDomes

projector location

Contrast is specified as the ratio of the brightest white to the darkest black. Unlike brightness and resolution, contrast is not directly affected by masking and blending.

We use the projector manufacturer’s contrast measurement without dynamic contrast or similar features if available.

contrast

features

unique pixels Using DigitalSky software, we can accurately calculate the number of pixels that contribute to the dome image, including pixels in blended areas that only partially contribute. Unique pixels are given using a typical configuration. Actual unique pixels will depend on the specific projector layout for your dome.

dome arc pixels Just as with unique pixels, we can accurately calculate a count of pixels across any great circle on the dome (dotted line in the diagram). We list a typical count as each arc is slightly different in the number of pixels that contribute to the image. This is also different based on the projector layout for your particular dome.

The diagram shows where projectors are located and pointed. In multiple projector systems, each projector covers a portion of the dome and is blended with the others into a seamless fulldome picture.

one projector

two projectors

six projectors

We list brightness based on a total of the manufacturer’s brightness for each projector. The actual brightness you’ll see in the dome is based on a number of additional factors unique to each dome.

The three pixel count terms below (total, unique, and dome arc pixels) are each a way to define resolution. The first, total pixels, is the least reliable way to describe resolution because the nature of projecting a rectangular image on a spherical surface doesn’t use all the pixels of the projector—even in a single-projector fisheye system. It is better to compare systems with the unique pixels or dome arc pixels figures.

resolution

These systems are capable of 60 frames

per second in real-time and playback.

These systems are also available

as Definiti 3D stereoscopic.

Recommended for portable

domes.

Recommended for domes up to

10 meters.

These systems are available for tilted or

non-tilted domes.

There are three major categories of projection technology in use today: LCD, DLP, and LCoS. Each has different features, with LCoS proving the highest performance. DLP provides a mix of performance and low cost. LCD provides the lowest cost.

technology

X-LARGE20m+Domes

LARGE 15-20m Domes

MEDIUM 10-15m Domes

SMALL<10m Domes

Recommended for domes 10 to

15 meters.

Recommended for domes 15 to

20 meters.

Recommended for domes over

20 meters.

Definiti 5 Projection SystemMt. Cook Observatory

Photo by Denis Callesen

Single-Projector Simplicity

SoloPD III Maestro

projector location

2,900-7,500lm2.3-4.1M

1.1-2M1.2-1.6K

1,000-7,500:1DLP or LCoS

4.

brightness

total pixels

unique pixels

dome arc pixels

contrast

technology

features

projector location

2,500lm0.8M0.9M

1K400:1

LCD

brightness

total pixels

unique pixels

dome arc pixels

contrast

technology

features

5,000lm9.8M4.5M2.4K

10,000:1D-ILA

Truncated:Tan area is not

covered.PORTABLE

SMALL<10m

60FPS

TILTREADY

MEDIUM 10-15m

SMALL<10m

SMALL<10m

60FPS

TILTREADY

60FPS

TILTREADY

*PD III has truncated picture coverage

Non-truncated:Complete dome

coverage.

perspectiveview

topview

PORTABLE

*Maestro is not available in all regions. Check with your sales representative for availability.

One Projector = Simple

In a planetarium with a staff of one, simplicity becomes necessity. Sky-Skan’s Definiti PD III, Solo, and new Maestro systems combine the power of DigitalSky with the ease of a simple setup. One projector, one lamp, and no surprises.

The PD III features the full power of DigitalSky. The power of the world’s largest theaters is now portable! In fact, PD III features an innovative folding mechanism for easy transport.

Nothing is simpler for permanent installations than Solo and Maestro.Simply choose the brightness and resolution you need. Solo provides 3,500 lumens with a 1K image.

Need more? Our new Maestro adds an incredible 10,000:1 native contrast ratio and 2.4K resolution (4.5M unique pixels). This makes Maestro the highest resolution single-projector solution available.

The PD III: big-theater power, on the go.

Duet 6 6 HC 8

Incredible Value, Powerful Performance

17,400-45,000lm13.8-24.6M6.3-13.1M3.4-4.8K

2,900-10,000:1DLP

5.

projector location

5,800-15,000lm4.6-8.2M2.4-4.5M1.9-2.5K

2,900-7,500:1DLP

brightness

total pixels

unique pixels

dome arc pixels

contrast

technology

features

10,200lm12.4M7.5M3.2K

30,000:1D-ILA

23,200-60,000lm32.8M18.8M5.5K

2,900-10,000:1DLP

TILTREADY

3DREADY

60FPS

MEDIUM 10-15m

SMALL<10m

LARGE 15-20m

TILTREADY

3DREADY

60FPS

SMALL<10m

MEDIUM 10-15m

LARGE 15-20m

TILTREADY

3DREADY

60FPS

SMALL<10m

MEDIUM 10-15m

TILTREADY

60FPS

SMALL<10m

MEDIUM 10-15m

Compact 6

13,200lm4.7M3.2M

2K2,000:1

DLP

TILTREADY

3DREADY

60FPS

MEDIUM 10-15m

SMALL<10m

5

12,500lm11.5M7.35M2.8K

4,000:1DLP

LARGE 15-20m

TILTREADY

3DREADY

60FPS

SMALL<10m

MEDIUM 10-15m

Value + Performance

Our solutions for small and midsize domes combine multiple single-channel projectors into a bright, high-resolution seamless solution.

Definiti 5, 6, 6 HC, and 8: value/performance leaders.

Our most popular Definiti projection systems are chosen because they have a great mix of brightness, resolution, and price. We offer several configurations for a variety of domes. Our 6 HC solution is perfect to pair with a Definiti Optical star projector and keep the fidelity of a black sky. With Definiti 8 we’ve added even more brightness and resolution to our popular 6 configuration.

Definiti Duet: two-projector performance from the theater’s cove.

Duet is for those seeking extra performance over a single-projector solution, yet

keeping to the simplest design possible. Duet delivers with a bright, sharp picture and no equipment in the pit!

A Stunning Picture The Excitement of 3D

projector location

6.

2D brightness

total pixels

2D unique pixels

2D dome arc pixels

2D contrast

technology

features

projector location

22,000-42,000lm17.7M

10-12M4K

2,500-3,000:1LCoS: SXRD

brightness

total pixels

unique pixels

dome arc pixels

contrast

technology

features

7.

4K 4K HC 3D 4K 3D 8K

44,000lm

3D: 35.4M 2D: 17.7M

10-12M

4K

2,500-3,000:1

SXRD

132,000lm

3D: 53.1M 2D: 106.2M

35-38M

8K

2,500-3,000:1

SXRD

10,000lm19.7M

10-12M4K

10,000:1LCoS: D-ILA

3D Duet

15,000lm

3D: 9.2-16.4M 2D: 4.6-8.2M

2.4-4.5M

1.9-2.5K

2,000:1

DLP

MEDIUM 10-15m

LARGE 15-20m

X-LARGE20m+

MEDIUM 10-15m

LARGE 15-20m

TILTREADY

3DREADY

60FPS

TILTREADY

3DREADY

60FPS

MEDIUM 10-15m

LARGE 15-20m

X-LARGE20m+

SMALL<10m

MEDIUM 10-15m

MEDIUM 10-15m

LARGE 15-20m

X-LARGE20m+

or

TILTREADY

3DREADY

60FPS

TILTREADY

3DREADY

60FPS

TILTREADY

3DREADY

60FPS

About Definiti HD LensesDefiniti 4K and 8K systems feature Definiti HD lenses—designed by Sky-Skan exclusively for these configurations.

Pictured is an 8K lens with a 90° bend for tilted dome installations where the projector can only tilt front to back.

4K resolution and premium color quality from only two projectors.Definiti 4K’s stunning picture quality rivals film for color fidelity and provides the brightness to make your content look great. With 4K HC, we’ve added an unbelievable 10,000:1 native contrast ratio to create stunning black skies. Only Sky-Skan can offer the Definiti HD lens range, designed specifically for Definiti fulldome theaters.

The most immersive experience in fulldome.Definiti 3D is both a great tool for a more immersive experience and a great way to get audiences more excited about the show. Definiti 3D can be added to most of our Definiti systems. Just look for the “3D ready” feature.

With Definiti 3D, all real-time imagery from DigitalSky is automatically in 3D stereo, giving you lots of content. We also distribute a number of playback shows in 3D. Our 3D solutions include Infitec filters and glasses, which provide the best color quality, brightness, and overall performance.

The Power of 8K8.

The Clarity of Hybrid9.

stars

bright stars

deep-sky objects

Sun, Moon projectors

Planet projectors

axis speed

size

light source

cooling

shutter

hybrid with digital

up to 5M

0

50+

optional (Sun only)

optional

up to 20 deg/sec

330x297x405mm

LEDs, dimmable

fanless

none

no

up to 20M

21-62

170+

optional

optional

up to 40 deg/sec

816x600x934mm

LEDs, dimmable

built-in fans

electronic

yes

projector location

66,000-126,000lm53M

35-38M8K

2,500-3,000:1LCoS: SXRD

brightness

total pixels

unique pixels

dome arc pixels

contrast

technology

features

8K

30,000lm59M

35-38M8K

10,000:1LCoS: D-ILA

8K HC MEGASTAR

ZEROMEGASTAR

IIA

MEDIUM 10-15m

LARGE 15-20m

X-LARGE20m+

60FPS

3DREADY

TILTREADY

MEDIUM 10-15m

LARGE 15-20m

X-LARGE20m+

60FPS

3DREADY

TILTREADY

The perfect partnership of optical and digital: Definiti HybridAn absolutely black sky. Pinpoint stars. For decades, the world’s best planetariums have enjoyed optical star quality. Definiti Hybrid improves on earlier generations of star projectors by adding millions of stars to create the Milky Way and other deep-sky objects. They’re so detailed, audiences need binoculars to truly appreciate them.

The MEGASTAR optical star field is synchronized with DigitalSky’s digital projection for incredible hybrid performance. For an even more stunning sky, optional Sun, Moon, and planet projectors are also available.

Ultimate performance.When 4K is not enough, 8K delivers even sharper pictures and more brightness. At 8K resolution, stars rival even optical projection sharpness. The power of Definiti 8K digital is that everything is sharp—from the stars to constellation lines and overlays to the most complex 3D data sets.

8K HC goes even further with super-black starry skies, perfect to combine, if desired, with Definiti Optical’s MEGASTAR projectors. Even with the 10,000:1 native contrast, 8K HC still delivers 30,000 lumens for an impressive picture.

About Sky-Skan

Contact UsNorth America/Pacific +1 603-880-8500, [email protected]

Europe +49 89-6428-9231, [email protected]

Oceania +61 3-9329-5501, [email protected]

On the web at SkySkan.com

Contents are © Copyright 2013 Sky-Skan, Inc. This document contains information that is subject to change without notice. Errors, omissions, or outdated information may be present. No additional warranties should be assumed from information in this document.

In 1967, Sky-Skan was creating innovative special effect projectors for planetariums. Since then, it has continued to be devoted primarily to planetariums and education through visual tools. Creating scientifically accurate products that are easy to use and modify is at the core of our identity.

Sky-Skan’s headquarters in Nashua, New Hampshire (near Boston) is supported by offices in Germany and Australia and by regional representatives around the

world. Sky-Skan offers research, theater design, professional development, graphics production, show distribution, and its renowned hardware and software engineering groups. While remaining a small company, Sky-Skan is able to serve a world-wide customer base while staying dedicated to serving planetariums and dome theaters that educate and inspire audiences.

SCITECH, Horizon – The PlanetariumPerth, Western Australia