Distance Technologies unveiled a prototype of their groundbreaking “glasses-free mixed reality” technology at AWE, and I had the privilege of experiencing it firsthand. The company, which recently secured $2.7M in funding from investors, aims to revolutionize any transparent surface into a portal for extended reality by projecting computer-generated 3D light fields combined with the physical world. The potential applications for this technology are extensive, with intelligent windshields in automotive and aerospace industries serving as just the initial entry point.
The prototype featured a planar surface with a glass positioned at a 45-degree angle, a Realsense sensor, and a Leap Motion Controller 2 sensor. The setup, fueled by multiple computers, utilized the glass to reflect light rays into the user’s eyes, delivering a glasses-free augmented reality experience with authentic 3D elements and genuine depth. The Intel Realsense sensor tracked the user’s head position and optimized the light field for their vantage point.
Throughout the hands-on demonstration, the system projected simulated 3D maps of mountains, showcasing the potential application of displaying 3D maps through a vehicle’s windshield. The visuals were sharp, and the sense of depth provided by the light fields was highly convincing. However, the prototype displayed several artifacts, including duplicated elements, halos, and compressed depth, as well as a minor darkening effect on real-world elements.
Notwithstanding these issues, the team at Distance Technologies acknowledged the shortcomings of the prototype and emphasized that it represented just the initial phase of their development. They underscored their commitment to transparency and their intention to share their progress with the community, expressing confidence that the final system would address these issues. Although the prototype demonstrated potential, it is evident that the technology is still in its early stages and requires further development before it can be practically utilized.
As a technology enthusiast, I appreciate the nature of prototypes and recognize the potential of Distance Technologies’ work, despite its current limitations. The prototype showcased the promise of glasses-free AR technology, but it is clear that the team has a journey ahead to progress from the early prototype to a product demonstration. I am optimistic that with continued dedication and development, they will realise their vision of glasses-free AR for transparent surfaces like windshields.
In conclusion, while the technology shows promise, it is still too early-stage for practical use. I am eager to witness the progress of Distance Technologies and anticipate the unveiling of a more advanced system in the near future. The team’s dedication and transparent approach to development are promising indicators of their future success.