The next generation of three-dimensional viewing may be just around the corner thanks to a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program contract through NASA Stennis Space Center’s Office of Technology Development and Transfer. The prototype of a high-resolution 3-D display system technology, called VolumeViewer, was developed by Genex Technologies Inc., of Kensington, Md.
VolumeViewer is a patented 3-D display system with a 360-degree group viewing capability. The system requires no special eyewear, so viewers can realistically perceive the physiological and psychological depth cues of 3-D objects.
By combining state-of-the-art technologies in Spatial Light Modulator (SLM), high-power laser projection and rotating helix screen, Genex achieves a multicolor, lifelike 3-D display system with unprecedented high resolution in a portable design.
Most existing display systems hinder a viewer’s ability to accurately visualize the high- dimensional data of advanced engineering design and space mission planning because they handle only two-dimensional, flat images. VolumeViewer’s ability to provide sharable 3-D visualization of mission scenarios could enhance the accuracy and efficiency of validation, decision-making and collaboration on satellite data analysis and visualization.
VolumeViewer was developed to offer NASA a system to visualize various types of three- dimensional data collected by satellite sensors. Genex proved the technology’s feasibility through extensive experiments in visualization, data analysis and manipulation of NASA’s geospatial data acquired by remote sensors.
The technological breakthroughs in the development of VolumeViewer have resulted in the commercial release of a line of patented three-dimensional cameras, three-dimensional digitizer systems and three-dimensional visualization and application software. Genex also developed a proprietary 3-D mouse to manipulate images projected by VolumeViewer.
“This SBIR project is an excellent example of how NASA and industry can partner to develop a NASA needed technology while at the same time help fulfill a commercial market place need,” said Ray Bryant, NASA Technology Development and Transfer Office SBIR/STTR manager.
Genex’s highly accurate 3-D data can provide precise 3-D measurements in software packages for use in applications from plastic surgery to custom-fitting hearing aids, and from facial recognition systems to cleft-palate research studies.
“We are very grateful for the opportunities provided for us by the SBIR program,” said Patrick May, Genex’s vice president of sales and marketing. “We believe that the U.S. economy and homeland defense will experience significant benefits as our solutions are deployed in the commercial, medical, governmental and military sectors.”
