Sony's prototype projector turns any tabletop into a touch-sensitive display

Sony's Future Lab is a R&D group responsible for taking crazy ideas into the prototype phase, and one impressive vision shown here at SXSW in Austin this week is a projector that turns any flat surface into a screen for light to play on. The "Interactive Tabletop" concept uses depth sensors and motion tracking to know when objects are placed on the table and even bring storybooks to life. The project looks like a fully realized version of the augmented reality coffee table inventor and technologist Bastian Broecker constructed back in 2012 using a PlayStation Eye camera and a Microsoft Kinect sensor.

Sony programmed its prototype to recognize a copy of Lewis Carroll classic Alice in Wonderland. When the company's representative opens the book, it springs to life with animations that can be dragged off the page and then used to interact with a nearby physical objects like a teacup or deck of playing cards. The tabletop also responds to any finger press by tracking the direction of your hand, while hovering your fingers over any portion of the surface highlights the grid of light the projector uses to monitor your movements.

I have to admit the first time I saw the video I was floored. I couldn't believe how stunning these images were and they look so animated, so futuristic, that I wouldn't be surprised this technology will influence how we study in school, work, watch T.V, etc.

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One step closer to moving holograms.

Like in the old movies. You turn the machine on and can see everything 3d right in front of you, anywhere anytime.

a reply to: ZeroFurrbone

That reminds me of one of the scenes from Prometheus, when the crew is briefed by Peter Wayland about their mission in the film. Also, I like the idea of this technology to be used create "memories" of people. Like say family who passed away, and you can use it create an avatar that acts like a 3D hologram and will be able to act like they did when they were alive.

The technology isnt that new, projecting keyboards have been out for many years now.

a reply to: PhoenixOD

We are talking about whole screens here. Not just keyboard. Entire PC just projecting there.

a reply to: PhoenixOD

I have heard about virtual keyboards before but never before seen them in use. They look very thrifty.

a reply to: Teddy916

I've seen it in stores here in Michigan last Christmas....played with it a bit.

Expensive now...I think it was $7-800. You could even project it on arm, floor, seat.

The wife and I thought it was just OK...cool though.

a reply to: mysterioustranger

Hopefully more companies will design and market their own to compete with Sony. After all if you want to make sure your product is good, make sure you have good competition.

a reply to: mysterioustranger
These virtual keyboards have been around for quite a while. They're relatively cheep these days though. Less than $60.00 with a virtual mouse function as well.

Newegg link

But that's not nearly as nifty as the toy in the OP.

-dex

a reply to: DexterRiley

Yes. The one youve shown is the one we toyed with when it first came out...but in my home? My wife (bless her soul)...is "electronically and technically" challenged.

She pushes the garage door opener and wonders why the tv channels dont change...so...its neat, but I prob wouldnt get one. Maybe... They are cool, and I can see a lot of benefits to having one.

Thanks