In yet another sign that are lives are about to become increasingly gamified, Microsoft has recently demonstrated an interactive technology that enables users to seamlessly play with virtual objects.
OK, so it’s not quite like the impeccable knock-offs found in Stark Trek’s Holodeck. And yeah, it’s pretty obvious the user is playing with imaginary object projected onto three dimensional space. But the objects generated by the HoloDesk features a simulated responsiveness that so closely mimics the actual physics of mass and motion that you might even have more fun playing with holographic toys as opposed to real ones.
The system combines webcam and Kinect technology to track and react accordingly to the user’s facial and bodily movements. To achieve this, the system relies on beam splitters to pinpoint depth and customized graphics algorithms to match the signals.
Besides producing fun demonstrations, Microsoft thinks the system can enhance emerging technologies such as telepresence and product modeling. And of course, gamers would love a full-on holographic adventure.
The HoloDesk is still in the research and development phase so it’ll continue to look this way for a while. But who knows. By the time we’re ready to trek across the galaxy at warp speed, it wouldn’t be stretch to believe it’ll be perfected by then.
(via Engadget)
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