NATO.0+55+3d modular, page 09/14
Compositing Objects
Compositing Objects
The `242.collage` series of objects round out the NATO distribution. With them, you can create composite images and films that would be impossible otherwise. Generally, when you send two images to a single object, like an `ekran`, you generate irregular flickering between the two competing image data streams, as they battle for the graphics real estate. The collage objects permit a smooth mix to occur by blending or substituting color information between multiple sources.
The example above shows the `242.collage2` object in action. All four of the collage objects (`242.collage`, `242.collage2`, `242.collage3` and `242.collage4`) operate on the same principle, but each permits a slightly different set of commands for specific usage needs. All of the collage objects (except for `242.collage4`) also accept commands from `242.matrix` objects which perform resizing, skewing, translation and rotation operations to the data on an `inlet-specific` basis. `242.collage` in combination with `242.matrix`, `242.decoupage` (for cropping) and judicious use of feedback can yield some beautiful effects unattainable through the standard NATO processing objects. Check out this short movie for a little example.
The key to the collage objects is the `copymode` command seen on the far right of the example. QuickTime (and NATO) features several possible transfer modes that dictate the way materials interact with each other and with the background color of the offscreen graphics world.
How well does it work? Functionally, it works fine. Practically, NATO's compositing is a little slow. The tradeoff is that NATO permits much more flexibility in terms of layers and materials permitted, as compared to existing packages, like Image/ine. With a fast computer, you can use the collage objects without too much trouble for realtime work, although your frame rate may slow down noticeably.
`242.collage4` was released to address some speed concerns with NATO's collage series. It's quite a bit faster, but doesn't feature the matrix operation support. If you require that, I'd recommend one of my objects, nato.matrix, which will provide the missing functionality.
all materials on this site (text, images, etc.) © 2000-2001 Jeremy Bernstein