Microsoft researchers develop Star Trek technology

Lee Bell
October 20, 2011
1 Comment

Microsoft HolodeskSome clever clogs at Microsoft has managed to pull off technology inspired by probably the only cool thing about the Star Trek TV series.

The project dubbed HoloDesk, after Star Trek’s HoloDeck, has been developed by the Sensors and Devices group at Microsoft Research Cambridge. It uses Natural User Interface (NUI) technology to allow users to manipulate 3-D, virtual images with their hands. We know what you’re thinking; this kind of thing has been hovering around for years but is never as good as it sounds. Well, watch the video below and we bet you’ll change your mind.

In the video you’ll see that physical objects like bowls and paper sheets can also be used to move items in the system, not just hands. Bravura!

Don’t get your knickers in a twist just yet though – it is only a research project, and it will probably stay like that for some time. The chances of it hitting the market are very slim, according to reports. However, just think of where 3D gaming interfaces such the tech used in the Wii and Xbox Kinect started off. Probably in dingy nerd infested rooms just like this one.

Here’s a run through of the science behind it – that’s if you’re interested. If you’re not, just skip to the god damn video!

  • The prototype uses an overhead screen to project a 2D image down through a half-silvered beam-splitter onto the desktop below.
  • A webcam situated between the screen and beam-splitter and facial recognition software track the users gaze allowing the user to view objects projected onto the desk as if they were really there.
  • The user can move their head and the objects perspective changes to match.
  • An attached Kinect tracks the user’s movements within the desk-space, allowing them to manipulate the projected items.
  • Objects can then be stacked, rolled, and juggled as if they were really there.

This development indicates an important step forward in data manipulation. So instead of a plastic surgeon trying to model an image of, say, a pair of breasts on a 2D computer screen, perhaps  one day we might see them touch, twist, and examine a 3D model of some with their pervy bare hands? Board gaming, or even interactive 3D gaming could also be one of many possible outcomes of this technology. Playing with virtual balls just never looked so enjoyable.

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