3D adverts could appear out of thin air

Bron; scientist
ADVERTISING displays could soon appear out of thin air, thanks to a laser system that projects moving 3D images in the sky. Firing hundreds of laser pulses each second creates the illusion of constant points of light in the air.


The system, developed by Burton of Kawasaki, Japan, focuses a laser pulse onto a point in the air to ionise it, briefly creating a ball of glowing plasma, dubbed a flashpoint. By firing hundreds of laser pulses each second, the system creates the illusion of many constant points of light.A new laser has increased the firing rate to 1000 flashpoints per second, while the pulses are now directed automatically using optics, allowing the system to create more complex 3D images - and even animations. New images released by Burton include stick figures and a version of the "Utah teapot" - a long-standing reference object in 3D programming.

The company is now investigating the use of the technology for outdoor advertisements, for which they will need to increase the size of the projections - currently less than a metre wide - by using more powerful lasers. It is aiming for a practical device by 2011. Other suggested applications include light displays that resemble fireworks, and 3D TV.