GestureTek custom installation
CHARLES TOWNE LANDING STATE HISTORIC SITE

South Carolina State Parks & Recreation approached Optika Scenic Works to design and create a learning area for visitors to the newly renovated Charles Towne Landing state historic site.  This site was established by European Settlers in the 1670’s and contains many original artifacts.

Optika Scenic Works objective was to create a hands-on learning experience of Charles Towne Landing history. Optika was challenged to create an environment that allowed visitors to interact with the artifacts that had been discovered as remnants of the settlers who once occupied this area.

Jason Kraning from Optika contacted GestureTek, a true pioneer in gesture-based technology, to assist in the project. These companies envisioned a virtual archaeological dig using GroundFX technology as a template. The result is an interactive re-creation of a palisade wall in which visitors’ hand movements can reveal virtual artifacts by clearing away leaf and earth covering.  As each virtual artifact is exposed,  the real artifact lights up in its encased container.

GroundFX® technology is based on GestureTek's patented motion gesture control system. This system showcases an interactive virtual world where a state-of-the-art tracking system reads the position of the body at all times, allowing for real-time movement and interaction with the display graphics. GroundFX®can be projected onto any flat surface with scaleable display sizes.

Named the highlight of the visitors’ center, this state-of-the-art “digital dig” exhibit is a hit with visitors who want to experience how archaeologists carefully sift through soil and time at this remarkably undisturbed site to find clues to the past.