LightBeam is a groundbreaking new pico projector technology that allows any surface to be transformed into an interactive display. Developed by a team of researchers at Germany’s Technische Universität Darmstadt, LightBeam is poised to revolutionize the way we interact with digital content. Watch the video after the jump to see LightBeam in action, together with everyday objects being used as remote control devices.
How LightBeam Works
The LightBeam system uses a pico projector that has been combined with a Microsoft Kinect motion controller and a depth-sensing camera. This combination enables the system to provide interactive motion control to projected presentations. The Kinect motion controller is crucial as it tracks the user’s movements and gestures, allowing for a seamless interaction with the projected content. The depth-sensing camera adds another layer of precision by detecting the distance and spatial orientation of objects and surfaces.
Transforming Everyday Objects
As well as transforming surfaces into interactive displays, the system can also be used with everyday objects as remote controls for the system. Originally developed to see how users would interact with physical objects using LightBeam, it soon became apparent to the researchers that physical objects could also be used to remote control the system if desired. For example, a simple coffee mug could be used to navigate through a presentation, or a book could be used to zoom in and out of a projected map. This opens up a myriad of possibilities for both personal and professional use, making the technology incredibly versatile.
The potential applications for LightBeam are vast. In educational settings, teachers could use any surface in the classroom as an interactive whiteboard, making lessons more engaging and interactive. In business environments, professionals could use LightBeam to deliver dynamic presentations without the need for specialized equipment. Even in home settings, LightBeam could be used to create interactive gaming experiences or to control smart home devices.
The new LightBeam Technology will be showcased at the Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems 2012 in Texas, during May. This conference is a significant event in the field of human-computer interaction, and showcasing LightBeam there will undoubtedly attract attention from researchers, developers, and industry professionals. More information on the system is available as a PDF here.
The development of LightBeam is a testament to the innovative spirit of the researchers at Technische Universität Darmstadt. By combining existing technologies in new and creative ways, they have created a system that has the potential to change the way we interact with digital content. As technology continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how LightBeam and similar systems are integrated into our daily lives.
Source: Gizmag
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