Previs and reining data from 'the cloud'

There is no stopping workflow convergence in the realm of design for narrative media as was shown last night by GRADIENT VFX with their presentation of GLoW visualization software at the ASC Technology Committee meeting. 
    Co-founders Olcun Tan and Thomas Tannenberger won the 2010 HPA award* for GLoW (Gradient Location-Optimized Workflow) which they created as a 2D or stereoscopic 3D previsualization and nonlinear production system. 
     GLoW consists of a proprietary software plug-in and related workflow that uses lidar scan metadata of sets and/or locations. The metadata can be imported into 3rd party software such as Maya and used create high quality CGI that is extremely accurate. The locations can be modified or supplemented with assets as needed. They had a library of assets to choose from including cars, trees and people that could be dropped into place with the click of a button. Also included were cameras, lights and other production tools.
     The scene(s) are  rendered in REALTIME with high-quality image based textures by making use of 'the cloud' to stream the data online,  and which can be accessed in many ways including computer, ipad or iphone.
     They are currently working with Paramount Studios and have a complete 3D model of the backlot that can be accessed via an ipad app as demonstrated. 


*During the HPA Awards ceremony on November 11, 2010, Gradient VFX was recognized for their inventive thinking and execution of concept with a special honor, the HPA Judges Award for Creativity and Innovation in Post Production.