Illuminated lightbox

LED Lightbox Controller Preparation – Dynamic Gradient Effect

As part of this project, we developed a dedicated controller configuration for illuminating a custom lightbox shaped as the number “8”. The installation was driven by the Elegant S80 controller with modified firmware supporting client-specific lighting effects.

LED Installation Architecture

The lightbox structure was manufactured by
3D System (https://3dsystem.eu/), a company specializing in high-quality spatial advertising constructions. The cooperation was highly efficient — the mechanical precision of the structure significantly simplified pixel mapping and final system integration.

The illumination was implemented using a very dense digital LED strip, controlled per individual diode.

The entire structure is built from a single continuous LED strip that bends to form the shape of the number “8”, creating two parallel light paths. From the controller’s perspective, the system operates as one logical pixel chain.

Pixel Mapping Process

The first stage involved precise physical and logical pixel mapping.

Each diode was assigned a defined position within the animation space to ensure:

  • uninterrupted motion across curved sections,

  • elimination of visible direction changes,

  • seamless visual continuity between both loops of the “8”.

Special attention was given to the transition between the last and the first pixel. The animation was designed to loop invisibly, creating the perception of a continuous, closed trajectory with no visible reset point.

Client Preview and MP4 Approval (Pre-Upload Validation)

Before uploading the final configuration to the controller, we prepare and send the client an MP4 preview of the planned animation. This step allows the client to verify the exact look of the effect on the lightbox and confirm that it matches the branding guidelines and expectations. If needed, we apply corrections — including fine-tuning motion, color balance, and optional gamma adjustment — to ensure the approved result is reproduced correctly after deployment.

Kaseton 8

Firmware Modification and Effect Implementation

The Elegant S80 controller firmware was extended to support custom dynamic effects developed specifically for this installation.

The primary visual effect consists of:

  • a red background,
  • an algorithmically generated yellow gradient,
  • smooth motion along the entire pixel chain,
  • seamless looping without visual discontinuity.

The gradient is generated in real time and is not based on pre-rendered frame sequences. This approach guarantees smooth motion, precise control over gradient length and intensity, and consistent animation quality across the entire installation.

Several variations of the same effect were implemented:

  • versions with a stronger yellow presence,
  • versions with subtler transitions,
  • variations with slightly different yellow tones.

All dynamic color schemes were predefined according to the client’s branding guidelines.

Static Color Mode

In addition to dynamic effects, the controller was configured with a static color mode that allows:

  • full color selection via a remote control color wheel,
  • smooth color transitions,
  • direct user control without firmware modification.

In this project, additional gamma correction was not required. The LED strip characteristics and selected brightness levels provided accurate and visually consistent color reproduction.

Dioda od kasetonu

Technical Scope of Work

The implementation included:

  1. Pixel mapping of a non-standard spatial geometry,
  2. Firmware modification for the Elegant S80 controller,
  3. Development of a real-time algorithmic gradient effect with seamless looping,
  4. Preparation of multiple predefined color variants,
  5. Integration of a user-controlled static color mode.

Thanks to the precise construction prepared by 3D System and efficient collaboration during installation and testing, the final result achieves high visual consistency and smooth animation flow.