During my internship at STEIM, Amsterdam in 2011, I worked on a new wireless gesture instrument for the artist and composer Richard Scott. The WiGi, or Wireless Gestural Instrument, is a hybrid of the classic Buchla Lightning and custom electronics on the controllers.
Process
First, we developed WiGi 2.0. This second version was made more robuust than its predecessor so that Richard could use it on the road during his performances.
My main task was the development of WiGi 3.0. The Buchla Lighting instrument is a fragile and very expensive instrument. That is why I focussed on developing a new wireless gestural tracking technology that is less fragile and easier to repair and maintain. Other improvements include ergonomic improvements of the two handheld controllers.
The new version of the WiGi was regularly tested with Richard and improved based on his feedback. The WiGi 3.0 uses a reverse-engineered Nintendo Wii IR technology that provides a reliable reading of position, gestures, and acceleration.
Result
