8.2: project development

1. Using API in Touch Designer

this API allows you to request the sunrise and sunset time of the day: https://sunrise-sunset.org/api

By using this in combination with the specific time that my object is activated, I'll be able to make projections in TD that are time-specific and relate to the sun's position.

First I used a web client DAT to request the sunset/sunrise times. These times can be parsed using a json DAT. 

The times then need to be converted to a seconds value that doesn't have AM or PM in it so that it can be used for calculations. The python script below does that, and then sends the value to a text DAT. Then the DAT to CHOP operator enables the values to affect the parameters of other operators.

2. Object Prototyping:

I also made a simple prototype of my thing, which I'm calling "suncaster" as of now. The half-circle interior inset will hold a two switches activated by the turning of the clock hand; and an arduino that will interact with my TD program. 

The sections made of wood and cardboard in the prototype will be wood in the final, but I'm thinking that the top cover that's gray here could be clear or some kind of acrylic. Whatever projection emerges from my TD program will be output onto a projector that is cast onto the mirror inside the suncaster, creating another projection in the space the sculpture is in. 

My focus during the upcoming week will be projection-making and beginning fabrication.