Competition: Feasibility studies for AI solutions.
Application Name: VisionFlow.
Duration: 5 months, starting 11 September 2023.
Research Category: Feasibility studies.
Summary: VisionFlow aims to develop pre-visualization workflows integrating machine learning and robot control software for virtual production.
Project Summary and Public Description:
VisionFlow will develop innovative workflows for the virtual production industry.
It inverts existing workflows, focusing on scene-driven camera motion.
Key features include the use of open-source AI and a simpler interface for non-artists to create 3D environments.
The project will build upon the open-source Flossverse telecollaboration stack.
InnovateUK Feedback:
Aligns with the competition’s focus on integrating machine learning in video production.
Assessor Feedback: Generally considered in scope, but involvement of a video production company could strengthen alignment.
Need or Challenge:
The project addresses the reluctance in the film industry to adopt AI and ML technologies due to tight margins and complexity.
VisionFlow introduces “parallax plates as a service”, integrating robotics with ML-based video generation.
Key benefits include increased productivity in pre-visualization and improved collaboration.
Assessor Feedback: Positive recognition of the project’s potential to improve productivity in video content production. However, a closer association with a video production company could enhance the application’s relevance and impact.
Approach and Innovation:
VisionFlow will integrate AI-generated video with robotics for innovative virtual production.
Plans to develop new tele-collaboration technologies for virtual production.
Focus on disrupting traditional workflows with more efficient solutions.
Assessor Feedback: The approach is plausible but lacks detailed deliverables and milestones for monitoring progress. A more comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape is suggested.
Team and Resources:
Dr. Sean Chase Mandrake Hill and Dr. John O’Hare lead the project with significant expertise in robotics and tele-collaboration.
Potential collaborations with G6Moco and Pathway XR Innovation Lab.
Assessor Feedback: The team is well-qualified but would benefit from direct involvement with a video production company.
Market Awareness:
The project targets the rapidly growing virtual production market.
Potential for significant savings in both small and large-scale virtual production facilities.
Assessor Feedback: Good market understanding but requires further research on barriers to entry and secondary markets.
Outcomes and Route to Market:
Focuses on demonstrating cost savings and efficiency in virtual production.
Plans to engage with early adopters and expand to global markets.
Assessor Feedback: Credible route to market but needs more detailed financial projections and dissemination plans.
Wider Impacts:
Economic Benefits:
Potential savings for virtual production facilities, reducing costs.
End-users benefit from reduced production costs.
Drives innovation in virtual production, encouraging market growth.
Contributes to UK’s economic growth by attracting investments and creating jobs.
Impact on Government Priorities:
Supports government focus on creative industries and digital technologies.
Environmental Impacts:
Positive: Reduces film industry’s ecological footprint.
Negative: Potential increase in energy consumption due to digital technologies.
Regional Impacts and Job Creation:
Supports regional virtual production hubs in the UK.
Encourages job creation and fosters creative communities.
Diversity and Social Inclusion:
Democratizes access to virtual production tools, promoting diversity in film and media.
Health, Safety, and Quality of Life:
Improves safety in film production by reducing on-location shoot risks.
Risks:
Technical Risks:
Integration challenges, limitations of AI, compatibility issues.
Collaboration efficiency, scope and timeline management, expertise recruitment.
Legal Risks:
Data protection and AI risk analysis.
Mitigation Strategies:
Dedicate resources for testing and refining, focus on achievable goals, conduct market analysis, establish clear communication, and management practices.