Interview with Heiko Wenczel and John Wyland
Do you use any special tool for the data management, please give the overview of working?
We have created our own data management tool to create high-volume configuration picture assets. Hugo helps us keep track of rendering jobs, allows us to configure datasets needed for projects and simply helps us recreate projects without setting up everything a second time. As we could not find a tool for our specific needs, we had to find our own solution for our 3ds Max pipeline.
Please tell us there is any special difference in Detroit Office and other offices of Mackevision and how you keep the coordination between offices when working on same project?
Detroit has its specialty in data preparation and creative pre-visualization work. On one hand, we have a complete team of specialists experienced in the generation of data sets for virtual garages and modeling. On the other hand, we are a creative house, as we focus our work on providing services to agencies for creative projects in marketing. The coordination between the offices is handled by producers keeping track of projects and information, as well as my travel between the locations.
How different and difficult the realistic 3d visualization work from the other projects in Mackevision?
The realistic representation of materials and light setups has always been the focus of our company. The core of our pipeline and the chief interest of our artists is to achieve maximum quality. The most important part of realistic 3D projects is to get accurate, real-life reference, and then our art directors and shaders are responsible for creating a perfect representation in the virtual world. Without the perfect eyes and design sense for a great picture, there would be no way for us to produce the high-quality work we’re known for. The know-how of the deeper functions of software to achieve these results is another important part of the equation. Additionally, we realized over time at Mackevision that it is always important to take into account what others in the business have learned already. Therefore, we take photographers and other artistic branches into account when working on our projects.
We heard that you built a comprehensive visual configuration system for the Mercedes fleet, can you tell us about this configuration system and how this works?
We created the F_BOX family of tools, based on our efficient processes of creating and structuring data. The idea was to offer an easy way of creating content for still and animated marketing materials, with special regard to configuring complex products.
Once we have prepared and set up data for mass rendering, we can use a tool called F_BOX Media Server. This basically represents a logic-based, real-time compositing system, using Web technology. It offers a point-of-sales or Web-based solution to represent the complete configuration of product variants in still pictures.
F_BOX Picture Shooter is our real-time still image generator. It has the most intuitive camera setup, background image selection and product accessorizing features such as adding license plates to a visualized vehicle. Our customers get really excited about this tool, because the data is prepared to perfection. This frees up the user from having to be a software expert, and lets them focus on creating the best angles for their product.
A more interactive and emotional way to represent a configurable product is to place these still perspective images in an animated environment. We call that system “Living Backgrounds.” This offers a mixture of still and motion for Web specials, features or configuration systems. The interesting part here is that there is motion in the background, giving you the impression that your product really is in a living environment.
One step further is our F_BOX Movie Shooter, which will allow agencies, based on shot and data libraries, to create their own running footage commercials. This application allows users to create a complete movie. For example, with vehicles, once a user has selected a car, an environment, shots within that environment, a driver, and accessories, users can begin the rendering process. Within a short timeframe, in regard to material specifications like resolution, frame rate, and format, users will receive their marketing piece.
Last but not least, for vehicles, Motion Configurator offers the possibility for users to watch a commercial on the Web where users actually configure a car, helicopter, or jet while it is moving. This means you will be able to see a commercial with your own defined vehicle.
Can you share, on which projects you are currently working, which is the most challenging project and why?
We are working on translating these tools for markets outside of automotive. Right now, we’re focusing on aviation and apparel. Still, automotive is our backbone and we are currently working on running footage for different brands based on background material we have produced. Additionally, we are about to bring to life the first motion configurator with advanced features along with an automotive client.
One of our most interesting projects, about which I can only hint to, will involve virtual characters and a configuration system. By the 3rd quarter of 2009, we will have more to share on the subject.
Do you have an aim or dream as an artist? What are your hobbies and please describe your free time, if you have any?
Well, as with anyone in the business, working on shots for a big movie production has always been a dream of mine. But, aside from that, keeping up the amazing work of Mackevision even in these hard times is my focus. Realizing the potential in workflows, and changing little steps which lead to new ideas and better solutions is an interesting task; explaining and placing them on the market is then a nice challenge.
As for most in this industry, free time doesn’t come often. When I do have time, I like to travel and see and experience new and different things. Aside from that, I try to keep myself physically fit to withstand every day challenges like the lack of sleep.
Anything you like to add? It is your chance now to state your opinion about anything.
The digital industry has evolved greatly in recent years, and it is one of the few industries where every day brings new ideas and new challenges. That is exactly what fascinates me about the digital content creation world. There are no limits and the possibilities are endless.
