Constructed, Virtual and Real-Time Integration of Artefact and Environments: Achieving Seamless Digital Spatial Registry in Cinematic Production.

Summary

Continuous Digital Spatial Registry (CDSR) will be developed through theoretical and applied research supported by academic supervision from Ulster University Screen Academy, access to the industry-leading CoSTAR R&D network and collaboration with Poli Productions Ltd, award winning global innovators in emerging workflows & enhanced data capture.

The Challenge: Disconnected Cinematic Workflows
Cinematic production involves three disconnected landscapes:

• Physical reality (physical sets, cameras, actors),
• In-camera VFX (dynamic LED volumes/backdrops),
• Post-production VFX (digital extension and repair).

Typically spawned from the same initial digital footprint, these processes tend to drift apart. The original high-value digital assets are discarded or lose their digital regiment when physical elements (printed concept art, sets built from 2D drawings) are introduced, unlike VFX which largely remains digital.The disconnect contributes spatial registry issues. Post-production often has to erase and replace content created during physical/in-camera shooting because it doesn't seamlessly match, doubling the work and cost.

The core research imperative:  Continuous Digital Spatial Registry CDSR to manufacture and capture "functional narrative landscapes" (physical sets, digital environments, LED volumes) within a unified digital process.

Applied and theoretical research will develop and test CDSR to ensure production processes remain optimally digital, adhere to consistent digital regiment and are spawned from the same digital source throughout. In CDSR all elements—physical or digital—will be precisely aligned and identifiable throughout pre-production, production, and post-production.

Integrating VFX from the outset by extracting extensive, real-time metadata during filming.

will contribute to a paradigm shift from traditional post-production as a "fix-it" stage.

Key data captured at the highest degree includes:

● Lens Calibration

● Tracking Systems

● Real-time Integration

● Data Aggregation

● The "Flip Switch" and Automated Matting

The research aims to empower post-production and the research will encompass quantifying impact on production efficiency.

For a more detail project description contact K.fleming@ulster.ac.uk including ‘PhD CDSR’ in subject line.

Desired skills of the applicant

Experience using virtual production technologies, VFX, AR, VR in a professional context and/ or screen industry experience is desirable.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• Completion of Masters at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• AHRC

This scholarship will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £20,780 per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) is also available. Fees and a maintenance stipend will also be provided for approved placements of up to six months.

To be eligible for these scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a UK National, or
• Have settled status, or
• Have pre-settled status, or
• Have indefinite leave to remain or enter, or
• be an Irish National

Applicants should also meet the residency criteria which requires that they have lived in the EEA, Switzerland, the UK or Gibraltar for at least the three years preceding the start date of the research degree programme.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.