Holographic video transmitted via Ethernet

Researchers at the University of Arizona have developed a holographic system that can transmit a series of 3D images in near-real-time. The monochromatic system is limited to a refresh rate of 0.5 frames/second but the developers say it is a precursor to full-blown holographic videoconferencing.

Reporting the work in Nature, research leader Pierre-Alexandre Blanche (pictured) explained that the system incorporates a novel, photorefractive polymer – one that can rapidly refresh holographic images and is scalable for production – coupled to a unique system for recording and transmitting 3D images of individuals and objects via standard Ethernet.

“This advance brings us a step closer to the ultimate goal of realistic holographic telepresence with high-resolution, full-color, human-size, 3D images that can be sent at video refresh rates from one part of the world to the other,” says co-researcher Nasser Peyghambarian.

The researchers had previously demonstrated a refreshable polymer display system, but it could refresh images only once every four minutes. The new system can refresh images every two seconds; while not yet ideal for a display, the rate is more than one hundred times faster.

“This breakthrough opens new opportunities for optics as a means to transport images in real time,” commented Lynn Preston, director of the National Science Foundations Engineering Research Centers program that supported the research. “Such a system can have an important impact on telepresence, telemedicine, engineering design and manufacturing, and other applications. This is an early and tremendously important outcome from this three-year old center.”

Related:
“Holographic noise” may herald new era in physics

Source: National Science Foundation

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