Researchers from the University of São Paulo and University of British Columbia reveal what one might describe as a "true" 3D display-- Spheree, a spherical device allowing one to admire and interact with 3D objects.
Described as the first "3D perspective-corrected interactive spherical scalable display," Spheree was revealed at the SIGGRAPH 2014 conference. In another mouthful from the team, it "arranges multiple blended and calibrated mini-projectors to transform a translucent globe into a high-resolution perspective-corrected 3D interactive display."
The researchers add Spheree does not have seams and blind spots, since it uses no special mirrors or lenses. Instead it uses an auto-calibration algorithm dubbed FastFusion to combine the resolution and brightness of the pico-projectors, while a basic webcam provides the positions of each projector's images on the globe.
To track viewers (and correct perspective appropriately) the system requires the use of special headbands and 6 infrared cameras. A Leap Motion controller handles interaction with on-screen objects.
SIGGRAPH had two versions of Spheree-- a 4-projector version with an 18-cm diameter display, and a 51cm, 8-projector version. Technically the FastFusion algorithm allows for any number of projectors, allowing for increasingly larger Spherees.
The researchers predict future Spheree versions might be useful for 3D animators and modelers, as well as provide new experiences for videogames or interactive museum displays.
Watch Spheree
Go Spheree: A 3D Perspective-Corrected Interactive Spherical Scalable Display
