3DIcon`s (www.3dicon.net) SVD (swept volume display) is one of several 3D image projection technologies currently developed.This technology creates a volumetric image that floats in air, occupying 3D space without the use of a 2D screen or viewing aids, in a full color true-to-life format that can be viewed from any angle with the naked eye.

SVD is one form of 3D display technology currently being researched by scientific leaders in the 3D field. SVD is a volumetric display in which a 3D image is formed by illuminating a rapidly moving display surface, such as a circular screen rotating at an optimal rpm (revolutions per minute), sweeping a spherical volume at each half-rotation. A collection of voxels (volumetric pixels) is rendered at precise locations within the volume over
a period of time, resulting in 3D imagery perceived due to persistence of vision.

Volumetric displays were first postulated nearly a century ago and have been a staple of science fiction. Until recently its development has only been accessible to research institutions, the military and now leading technology companies like 3DIcon.

3DIcon recently announced that its research team at OU completed Stage I of its 3D-SVD development program, which took the technology from concept stage to successfully rendering full color, 3-dimensional, 360-degree volumetric images. The embodiments of the original patent claim filed by OU for the 3D-SVD technology include full color, 360-degree, 3D video images using LEDs (light emitting diodes) operating at an optimal rpm to create a solid-appearing image with negligible flicker. The completed demo has delivered on the ability to create full color, 360-degree 3D images.

As the technology continues to develop in Stage II, the goal is to create image quality that appears more solid with negligible flicker. Over the next 12 months, 3DIcon and OU expect to complete Stage II of 3D-SVD and bring the technology to a point of development where it may be marketed and licensed to potential partners in various industries. Specific performance goals include investigating alternate image pane technologies with 3 color LEDs; demonstration of increased rpm capability; and creation of opacity.

3D-SVD is well suited for outdoor formats for use in advertising and entertainment, yet it`s been designed for flexibility and functionality including scalability for larger or smaller displays, automated 3D image preparation and importation software, and variable clock image display control.