Heliodisplay
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The Heliodisplay is a free-space display developed by IO2 technologies. A projector is focused onto a layer of mist in mid-air, resulting in a two-dimensional display that appears to float. This similar in principle to the cinematic technique of rear projection. As dark areas of the image may appear invisible, the image may be more realistic than on a projection screen, although it is still not volumetric. Looking directly at the display, one would also be looking into the projector's light source. The necessity of an oblique viewing angle may be a disadvantage.
Heliodisplay can work as a floating touchscreen when connected to a PC by a USB cable. With the supplied software installed, one can use a finger, pen, or another object as cursor control and navigate or interact with simple content.
The mist is formed by a series of metal plates, and the Heliodisplay can run for several hours on one liter of tap water.[1]
The Heliodisplay was invented by Chad Dyner, who built it as a 5-inch prototype in his apartment before founding IO2 technologies to further develop the product.
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[edit] Models
[edit] M1
The original M1 (Mark 1) units produced by IO2 were advanced prototypes and proof-of-concept, but a few have been sold through eBay.
[edit] M2
The second-generation M2 Heliodisplay supports a 30" image with 16.7 million colours and a 2000:1 contrast ratio. The interactive M2i version includes virtual touchscreen capability. The screen element of the M2i unit is created by a thin layer of water vapor fog.[2]
[edit] M3
The new third-generation M3 version launched on February 28th 2007 [3]has the same specifications as the M2 but is said to be much quieter, improved brightness and clarity and more stable operation with an improved tri-flow system. Apart from displaying at a standard ratio of 4:3 in addition it also displays 16:9 widescreen ratio. There is also an interactive version called the M3i[4].
[edit] References
- ^ David Bernstein. Making Something Out of Nothing. December 18, 2003.
- ^ CNet. Betaminds M2i Heliodisplay: Images appearing out of thin air.
- ^ IO2 Technology intros floating M3 Heliodisplay screen
- ^ IO2Technology M3
[edit] External links
- The IO2 website
- "Interactive 3D Display: It's here!" article from OhGizmo.com
- Woehburk - visible perfection Heliodisplay retailer
- Sci-fi projections Article from CBC, March 22, 2007
[edit] Media
[edit] Early footage (~2002)
- Display of a wristwatch
- A famous clip showing the Heliodisplay's interactive navigation using a map display
- Display of a car's exterior
