Nippon Television has begun joint research with the University of Chicago’s School of Computer Science AxLab on the theme of “creating digital media that go beyond screens to drive future everyday spaces.”
What is AxLab?
In recent years, technological innovations such as AI, XR, robots, sensors, and IoT are drastically changing our lives. However, much media content is limited to on-screen development and relies on visual perception. On the other hand, entertainment that places value on physical experiences, such as immersive theater, is also becoming a new trend. AxLab from the University of Chicago aims to address these changes.
Therefore, this research will go beyond traditional screens to develop new types of digital media and interfaces that interact with physical spaces, such as “robots that dynamically change the space itself according to people’s movements.” Specifically, the project will develop three-dimensional, spatial, and physical interactive media that go beyond the screen by using swarm robots distributed on the ceiling, dynamically deforming mechanical mechanisms, and 3D printing technology that works with video media.
By combining the Nippon Television and their content production capabilities and knowledge of production, the company plans to use radical prototypes to create and ponder the future of everyday spaces and the digital media that will blend into them. The research results will be fed back into the businesses and co-creation activities of our group companies, with the aim of developing living spaces, entertainment content, and businesses that provide completely new experiences.
