Creating the infinite fractal universe

One of @EliDhae's intriguing ideas was to explore fractals. In mathematics, a fractal is a geometric shape with detailed structure at infinitesimally small scales. It typically has a fractal dimension that exceeds its topological dimension.

One crucial requirement influenced our choice of technological components: the installation needed to be interactive, allowing visitors to control the output. To achieve this, we had to incorporate input from a MIDI device, giving visitors that control. We quickly decided to use the Unreal game engine as a bridge between the MIDI controller and the generated output.

Thanks to our partnership with BARCO, we easily connected with their experts to select the ideal projector for the job. We needed to project across 60 meters, from one side of the Lys to the wall on the opposite bank. Our goal was to provide visitors with a sharp, clear view so they could closely examine all the intricate details of the fractals.

To immerse visitors in the infinite beauty of fractals, we combined Unreal Engine with Machina Infinitum to generate and render complex 3D fractal geometries in real time. We programmed the MIDI device to control four key fractal parameters: Shape, Color, Repetition, and Density. This allowed visitors to manipulate the fractals dynamically, essentially turning the installation into an interactive game built in Unreal Engine. This approach opens up possibilities for exploring fractals from various perspectives in future projects.

We chose the AKAI LPD8 MK2 drumpad as our MIDI controller. It features eight knobs that serve as inputs for adjusting the fractal's parameters. Moreover, this versatile controller can be repurposed for future experiences we plan to create.

Last but not least, we needed a weatherproof pedestal to house the MIDI controller. That's where Pjotr entered the picture. He designed and fabricated the pedestal in just one week. The result was not only stunning, but Pjotr also 3D printed four new knobs that fit perfectly in the cabinet and connected seamlessly to the MIDI controller.