CEMI was hired to install color blast lights positioned to be "up lighting" for the trees lined up along the sidewalk and Somerville Ave.  This drew attention to passers by either walking, biking or driving threw the area.
CEMI also set up a table with an iPad connected to a video projector.  Interactive animation was shown on the side of a building.  Kids of all ages stepped up and drew images, type and color forms that were animated with simple motion keys.

Resources

The festival organizer provided a step ladder to help CEMI members keep all power and data cables hanging in the trees.  A control dial was used to adjust the color transformation speed of the lights.  With the help of just a few members, we were able to quickly set up this lighting system that spread out to 5 trees from one power supply unit.  Break down was done at night and took a bit more time since wires needed to be neatly wrapped and packed.

What did you learn?

Wires can last a long time if taken care of.  This means wrapping wires carefully.  This goes for all types and lengths of wires.  You will notice when handling wires that they have a memory to them from the original coil.  Most long wires should be wrapped around 12-16 inches in diameter (think of Indiana Jones whip on his waist).  I also learned how important it is to secure wires outside.  You must take into account wind, moving branches and people with long arms.  We want the wires and party-goers to be safe, so keeping them out of harm’s way is very important.  Always bring plenty of extension power cords!

What's Next?

Everything worked quite well but there is always room for improvement.  We've discussed making a file listing all supplies needed for this installation.  This way the next installer can quickly run down a checklist and be on his/her way.

Anything else?

I plan to devise a better way to mount the lights at the bottom of the trees.  Maybe some stakes or larger platforms.

Also, the iPad interactivity was a hit.  Myself and CEMI will be focusing on how to create more of this.

Badge Degrees Awarded for:

• Lighting/Lasers