Canon has this week announced that their new Canon MREAL mixed reality headset will be launching on March 1st, 2013, priced at $125,000.
The Canon MREAL mixed reality headset consists of a head-mounted display HM-A1, powered by MR Platform Software MP-100, and has been designed to create the illusion that computer-generated visual effects exist in the real world.
Advanced Technology for Professional Use
Canon explains a little more about their new Canon MREAL headset, which has been designed for automotive designers, manufacturers, university researchers, and museum exhibit curators, in mind.
“Two video cameras inside the head-mounted display (HMD), located in front of each eye, capture video from the real world, which is then processed and sent to a computer. Using state-of-the-art Canon image processing and directional-sensor data, the computer-generated graphics and the real world are combined with high precision and are displayed on the small monitors located inside the head-mounted display (HMD).
An advanced optical system enlarges the video displayed on the small monitors to create high-impact, three-dimensional images. The innovative and patented free-form prism features a unique three-sided configuration that produces clear, solid-looking images with low distortion, reducing the impact of optical aberrations, even in peripheral areas, and further enhances the realism of the experience.”
The Canon MREAL headset is not just another virtual reality device; it is a sophisticated tool aimed at professionals who require high levels of precision and realism. For instance, automotive designers can use the headset to visualize and interact with 3D models of vehicles, allowing them to make real-time adjustments and improvements. This capability can significantly reduce the time and cost associated with physical prototyping.
Applications in Various Fields
University researchers can leverage the MREAL headset for a variety of academic purposes, such as conducting experiments in a controlled virtual environment or visualizing complex data sets in three dimensions. This can lead to new insights and discoveries that would be difficult to achieve using traditional methods.
Museum exhibit curators can also benefit from the MREAL headset by creating immersive and interactive exhibits that engage visitors in new and exciting ways. For example, a curator could design a virtual tour of an ancient civilization, allowing visitors to explore historical sites and artifacts as if they were actually there. This can enhance the educational value of exhibits and attract a wider audience.
Moreover, the MREAL headset’s ability to blend real and virtual worlds opens up new possibilities for training and simulation. For example, medical professionals can use the headset to practice surgical procedures in a safe and controlled environment, improving their skills and reducing the risk of errors in real-life operations.
The Canon MREAL mixed reality headset represents a significant advancement in the field of mixed reality technology. Its high price tag reflects the cutting-edge technology and specialized applications it offers. While it may not be accessible to the average consumer, it has the potential to revolutionize various industries by providing a powerful tool for visualization, design, and training.
As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative applications for mixed reality headsets like the Canon MREAL. Whether it’s in the fields of automotive design, academic research, museum curation, or medical training, the possibilities are virtually limitless.
Source: Engadget : Business Insider
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