A team of researchers recently created a device that creates murals based on small reference images. The technology could improve digital fabrication methodology, and replace the jobs of mural artists in the future. (via ETH Zurich, Dartmouth)
Street art might become more mainstream than ever, now that a team of researchers created a robotic spray paint can that automatically creates large murals based on small images. The technology has larger implications as well, as it may improve visual arts, digital arts, digital fabrication methodology, and more.
The research was a joint effort between researchers from ETH Zurich, Disney Research, Dartmouth College, and Columbia University. Wojciech Jarosz, co-author of the study and an assistant professor of Computer Science at Dartmouth, said the team was motivated to expand computer-aided art beyond machines, and used spray paint because it was affordable, and relatively easy to use.
The device allows novice artists to create recognizable murals based on pre-selected images. A user can upload an image on his or her computer, and the program will do the rest. All the user has to do is stand before a wall and wave the spray can, and input from the computer will tell the smart can when to release or stop the flow of paint, slowly creating the masterpiece.
The device itself is powered by a combination of QR markers and radio frequency. A QR-coded device encases the spray paint can, and a servomotor-operated spray nozzle sits on top, controlling when paint is released from the can. Meanwhile, the can is hooked to a USB radio frequency receiver and radio transmitter to receive information about the image to-be-painted, while notifying the computer of its position in relation to the canvas at all times.
During trials, the researchers tested the device on large sheets of paper on a flat wall, after failing to get permission to paint university buildings. The researchers said the technology works well on flat surfaces, and as it is powered by batteries and a computer connection, it is affordable and easy-to-use for anyone.
In future, the researchers hope to successfully develop the technology for curved surfaces, so things like airplanes and globes can be painted with relative ease. Also, the current technology only allows for painting in one color at a time, which is ideal for street art, but not for world maps or other technical art.
On the bright side, artists who make a living painting industrial spaces can rest easy, knowing their jobs won’t be replaced by computers just yet – but the possibility is there. The technology has larger implications, however, for digital fabrication than art. The spatial awareness demonstrated by the researchers may allow for more automated manufacturing processes.
The findings from the study can be found in this month’s edition of Computers & Graphics, or on Jarosz’s website.
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