Encapsulant is a Systems Integration term in filmmaking. In virtual production, the nuances of this term take on special meaning. Here, we break down the definition to give you a starting point.
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An encapsulant is the physical support structure for individual LEDs within an LED panel for a volume. It’s essentially the skeletal frame used to contain and protect each light source in a specific space or environment.
Those with experience in virtual production will be well-versed in everything related to encapsulants, from understanding the technicalities behind the design of the product to knowing how to handle its installation properly. They know how important it is for these structures to provide adequate protection against environmental conditions such as humidity and dust. Without proper shielding, LEDS can become damaged due to heat accumulation or corrosion which could ultimately lead to an unsatisfactory result.
The importance of encapsulants in virtual production cannot be overstated, as they serve an essential role in ensuring accuracy and precision when rendering scenes and images onscreen. By providing physical containment for each light source, these structures enable teams to create realistic 3D models with precise colour matching and accurate luminance values. Additionally, having a rigid support structure enables filmmakers to position lighting equipment more effectively while also simplifying post-production tasks such as reshooting or modifying existing frames.