Real 3D images
Today dot matrices, tomorrow the Holodeck: Tatsumi Kimura, at Japan’s National Institute in Advanced Industrial Science and Technology in Tsukuba, demonstrates a laser plasma technology that can create Real 3D images as dot arrays in space.
A special projector can cast three-dimensional shapes of white light between 2 and 3-meters into the air — previous devices only tricked the eyes into thinking the image was 3D. The images are created by blasting the nitrogen and oxygen in the air at fixed points resulting in glowing plasma emissions which hang-out just long enough to etch an ephemeral image. The 3D images are, gulp, accompanied by a series of satisfying “tiny explosions” from the expanding air.
With improved lasers, scientists say they’ll be capable of projecting images at greater distances with more color variation making the device suitable for pyrotechnics or outdoor advertising. Sure that can, but we also hope to see 3D replacements to those child-hating balloons at the Macy’s parade — complete with what must be massive explosions at that scale to drown out any obligatory marching band shrill. Then we might actually pay attention.
Source:Reuters
February 24th, 2006 at 4:46 am
I wonder.. what would happen if you possition your hand right on the spot where these “mini” explotions happen? I guess that’s a pretty dangerous way of 3d entertainment!
May 4th, 2006 at 7:03 pm
I find it an interesting effect, but I’m pretty certain that these explosions are microscopic at best. It definitely wouldn’t blow a hole in your hand, though you might feel some discomfort/pain. Obviously, though, I wouldn’t suggest you go and try this.
Still, just the fact that they have successfully completed a holographic projection of any kind that is truly 3D without mirrors is astonishing.
June 1st, 2006 at 4:24 am
They did use mirrors.
June 15th, 2006 at 3:31 am
“They did use mirrors. ”
- What do you mean with mirrors? If you mean that mirrors are the cause for the 3d image that floats infront of you, then I don’t think so… because IF mirrors could do that.. what the heck would you need explotions for ?
June 25th, 2006 at 7:54 pm
This is published in May 2006 issue of Popular Science (p. 12-13) magazine included with the photo shown. However, it did not state explosions were happening, but “a projector sends pulses of laser light upward while mirrors focus them into little points, causing atoms in the air to ionize and emit light energy.”
The only potential damger is that a stray laser beam could cause eye damage (hence why you see the guy in the image wearing protective 0goggles). They hope to have a safer consumer version due out next year.
June 25th, 2006 at 8:03 pm
Thanks for the answere, but I do think than “tiny explotions” were mentioned.
“The images are created by blasting the nitrogen and oxygen in the air at fixed points resulting in glowing plasma emissions which hang-out just long enough to etch an ephemeral image. The 3D images are, gulp, accompanied by a series of satisfying “tiny explosions” from the expanding air”
Anyways.. I also don’t think it’s dangerous when technology always finds a way to bring problems to a small number
August 30th, 2006 at 11:31 am
Dave
Interesting topic… I’m working in this industry myself and I don’t agree about this in 100%, but I added your page to my bookmarks and hope to see more interesting articles in the future