Technology

The prototype of Fraunhofer FIRST’s VR Object Display is implemented in the form of a cylinder. It is equipped with eight standard projectors that project the image on to a special screen. The light coming from the projectors is filtered using the so-called Infitec method, i.e. it is split into three narrowband channels (red, green, blue), producing a very rich, high contrast image. A resolution of approx. 2000 × 500 pixels can be achieved using this method for 3D projection. The projectors’ light beams are not projected directly on to the cylinder’s screen but, as is usual with such methods, via mirrors. The resulting distortion of the image is corrected in real time using the autocalibrating software developed by Fraunhofer FIRST. This software also ensures edgeless image blending, the partial images fitting together perfectly so that no edges are visible. A tracking function is available, making it possible to achieve an optimal image when rendering objects in 3D, e.g. for product presentations. A magnetic tracker is used to determine the exact position and perspective of the viewer. The tracking software then aligns the object accordingly. Details of the object can be selected using a configurator whose features include a zoom function. The visual impression can be enhanced by directed sound. This is particularly interesting for the tracking ode because the sound can, like the image, be directed to the viewer’s exact position.

Application Areas

The VR Object Display is highly versatile. Not only is it suitable for all sorts of product presentations, the cylinder can also be used to project architectural models and art objects. In addition, it allows the rendering of images, videos, panoramas or 3D scenes and films. Other potential applications are in the show sector and its use by the advertising industry as a type of digital advertising pillar. Development of the VR Object Display is being funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research as part of the LaserCave project.