Eric from Ultimems introduced a groundbreaking technology in projection: the laser beam scanning projector. This new device, dubbed the "Vex scan," utilizes advanced laser beam scanning to create incredibly bright and clear images. Demonstrating its capabilities, Eric showed how the projector could be powered by a simple power bank, projecting images that remain sharp and visible even from a distance. This efficiency is notable, as a 10,000 mAh power bank can sustain the projector for up to 12 hours, making it ideal for prolonged use without the need for constant recharging.
The technology's standout feature is its ability to function with minimal power consumption, making it a costeffective solution for various applications, including outdoor signage and advertising. The projector's brightness and clarity are maintained even under sunlight, thanks to the efficient laser beam pointing mechanism that ensures high brightness and sharp images. This method is contrasted with traditional projectors that might struggle under such conditions, highlighting the Vex scan's superior performance.
One of the unique uses of this technology is in the realm of augmented reality (AR) glasses. Eric explained that the same laser beam scanning technology could be applied to AR glasses, projecting images directly onto the user's retina. This approach eliminates the need for LCD panels and is independent of the user's eye condition, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness. The glasses can thus provide a seamless visual experience regardless of the user's visual impairments.
The integration of this technology with AR glasses is achieved through a partnership with TDK, which helps miniaturize the components while maintaining high performance. Eric emphasized that this collaboration ensures that the technology is both innovative and compact, suitable for various practical applications. The laser beam scanning technology offers an alternative to other projection methods like Digital Light Processing (DLP) and microLED, positioning Ultimems as a leader in this niche market.
Additionally, the technology is being used to enhance vision for individuals with severe eye conditions. In collaboration with Sony, this projector technology leverages highzoom cameras to help people with retinal damage. By projecting enhanced images directly onto the retina, the device can compensate for damaged areas and improve the user's overall vision. This application is already available in North America and Japan, indicating its readiness for broader adoption.
Eric also highlighted a practical application in the medical field where the technology aids in finding veins for injections. By using an IR camera to capture the vein's location and projecting it onto the skin, the device simplifies the process for healthcare providers. Another innovative use is in tattoo application, where the projector can display potential tattoo designs directly on the skin, allowing clients to visualize and adjust the placement before committing to the actual tattoo.
The laser beam scanning projector is not just a prototype; it is ready for mass production. Already, products using this technology are available from companies like QD Laser. These products include AR glasses that are marketed and sold, demonstrating the practical viability of the technology. Ultimems plans to begin selling these projectors on Amazon by the end of June, with a starting price of $299, making the technology accessible to a broad audience.
Finally, Eric provided technical details about the projector's capabilities, such as a resolution of 720p at 60 frames per second, with plans to upgrade to higher resolutions like 1080p or even 4K. The device can operate for up to eight hours on a typical smartphone battery, depending on the content being projected. The speed of the laser scanning is impressive, with the laser beam moving 60,000 positions per second to create stable and highquality images. This combination of affordability, efficiency, and versatility makes the Vex scan projector a significant advancement in projection technology.
Description by Chatgpt.
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