Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Energy SBIR Phase II: Development of advanced scientific visualization systems to extract scientific insights fr

Description

Development of advanced scientific visualization systems to extract scientific insights from high volumes of data generated by simulations and experiments is sought. Specifically, these systems should provide collaborative data analysis and visualization with capabilities to communicate among users, creating a sense of participation and knowledge sharing via novel display technologies such as 3D autostereo. An advanced collaborative super high-resolution autostereo volumetric 3D visualization system that is scalable from laptop to wall size and that will allow multiple users to freely visualize and collaboratively analyze high-density volumetric scientific data in a distortion-free autostereo (without eyewear) 3D format is being proposed. The proposed system consists of a high-speed/parallel multiangular image beam scanner based on commercial-off-the-shelf micro-projectors, a holographic multiplexed projection screen, multichannel video image generation, and interface electronics. In Phase I the feasibility of the proposed volumetric 3D visualization system was successfully demonstrated through development of a scalable design and analysis, development of key subsystems and integration of a compact working prototype system using six microprojectors and a fabricated holographic screen. The fully functional prototype demonstrated a full-color high resolution bright 3D imagery with multi-perspective collaborative 3D visualization for many users from any distances within a 30 horizontal parallax view. In Phase II, the plan is to further develop this new 3D visualization system by optimization of the design with improvements in resolution, field-of-view, 3D parallax, scaled-up size by tiling, and interface to 2D and 3D imagery sources. The prototype will be tested and evaluated for real-time collaborative 3D interactive visualization. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: This super high-resolution large-format volumetric 3D display visualization technology will be extremely useful for scientific visualization because typical 3D displays now used by scientists are two-view (left/right) stereo systems. The system can significantly improve 3D perception and aid visualization of details otherwise obscured in current 3D, significantly enhancing scientific understanding of physical processes. This display technology has huge commercial potential, with immediate applications in air traffic control, simulation and training, and in entertainment, theme parks, museums, and educational institutions. Niche applications include improved visual tools in advertising, scientific research, medical imaging, telemedicine, teleconferencing, and in the engineering, design, and development of complex machinery and systems.