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Graphic Lab

© Matthias Heyde/ Fraunhofer FIRST

Innovative visualization technologies and opportunities for interaction are tested at the Graphic Lab. In addition to calling a portable dome projection system its own, the institute is home to one of only six stereoscopic full dome cinemas worldwide. High-resolution stereoscopic content can be projected onto the dome that is tilted at an 18° angle. FIRST’s own automatic calibration software is used to project images onto the curved screen that are free from distortions, consistently sharp and of a high resolution. Visitors to the cinema are free to move objects around and alter the size and shape of the projection through various interaction components. The cinema is a test center, representative environment, and location for workshops in equal measure. It is where researchers at FIRST meet with content producers as well as with potential clients and partners intending to use projection environments or full domes that apply technologies developed at Fraunhofer FIRST.

The scientists’ projection technologies are not limited to domes, however. For instance, the virtual advertising column developed at FIRST introduces new options of digital signage. As a stereoscopic VR object display it additionally facilitates viewing virtual objects similar to a hologram.

Simulators and image processing systems for medical technology are also being developed at the Graphic Lab in addition to projection systems. Doctors are enabled to virtually practice endoscopic procedures while manufacturers can assess and optimize the future device and its technical properties at an early stage in the development process. The simulation of optical and mechanical characteristics as well as the integration of innovative interactive interfaces is at the center of attention. Real-time capable visualization and image processing is facilitated through the use of potent GPUs (Graphic Processing Units).

Equipment of 3D dome cinema:

• Hardware: 16 Full-HD projectors; Surround Sound system of Fraunhofer IDMT
• Software: Fraunhofer FIRST ScreenPlayer, ScreenConfigurator and ShowManager

Procedures for simulators and image processing in medical technology:

• Hardware simulators 2D, 3D
• Optimization of individual components using hardware-in-the-loop testing
• Modeling of organs 2D, 3D
• Real-time processing of high-resolution images on GPUs
• Optical, marker-based motion tracking