How can this laser project a point in three-dimensional space?

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SUMMARY

The laser pointer technology discussed is utilized at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) and operates by controlling the z-axis through a slider mechanism. This pointer does not project a true three-dimensional laser beam; instead, it communicates with a 3D projection apparatus that generates the visual effect of a red point in space. The technology leverages advanced projection systems like RAVE and Powerwall, which interpret data from the pointer to create the illusion of a 3D point. The discussion highlights the efficiency of using a sensor-based system over a complex laser mechanism for 3D projection.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of 3D projection technologies such as RAVE and Powerwall
  • Familiarity with laser operation principles and optics
  • Knowledge of communication protocols between devices
  • Basic concepts of coordinate systems in three-dimensional space
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanics of 3D projection systems like RAVE and Powerwall
  • Learn about MEMS micromirrors and their applications in projection technology
  • Explore the principles of laser optics and how they relate to projection
  • Investigate communication protocols used in sensor-based devices
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for optical engineers, projection technology developers, and researchers interested in advanced laser applications and 3D visualization techniques.

univeruser
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See what I mean http://www.lanl.gov/orgs/tt/pdf/techs/3dlaser_pointer.pdf". Actually, coming to the point, how is this laser pointer at the Los Alamos National Laboratory able to control the z-axis with the slider?

There was a previous thread by someone else which was replied with something like plasma ball stuff. I've heard of that technology which actuates the focal length of the laser to heat air at the point to make luminous plasma. But the LANL technology seems to be different.

I'd be obliged to know the technology thet goes behind the 3D projection in the pointer.

P.S. I just want to know how it works. I won't be stealing license rights from LANL. It's just a matter of learning.
 
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Please! I'm like waiting three days and not a single response!

If you don't know the answer or won't give it here, atleast give me a "No!" message or such.

P.S. I'm in no hurry, but I kinda am getting frustrated. I hope this post didn't come too rude on you people.

Sorry for that.
 
i think about camera looking on screen to obtain x,y coordinates.
coordinate z we have from slaider embeded in pointer.
then point is displayed by software
(I'm sorry, but I never learned English)
 
I know, but how is it able to control the z-axis with the slider? With lenses?
 
like mice whell
 
LANL has a very advanced 3D projection technology (RAVE, Powerwall). I understand the so-called 3D laser pointers are only to be used within these facilities (theatre settings).
 
What Xitami is saying is that the pointer could be sending some sort of communication signal to the 3D projection apparatus, in which case the projection apparatus would actually be displaying the red ball. The observation of it coming from the laser, in this case, would be an illusion.
 
KingNothing said:
What Xitami is saying is that the pointer could be sending some sort of communication signal to the 3D projection apparatus, in which case the projection apparatus would actually be displaying the red ball. The observation of it coming from the laser, in this case, would be an illusion.

This makes the most sense to me. It's like the whole "Space pen vs pencil" idea. Why complicate something by making a laser that actually goes 3-D (which, don't get me wrong, would be really cool to find easier and less expensive ways of doing this), and instead have a sensor in your laser tell a 3-D projector where to project something.

The end result is the same, except it's cheaper for the company, and has the large constraint of only being used in certain labs.
 
Nope, I was talking true 3-dimensional projection. Just think, if it was possible to like stop a beam of light (laser in this case) in midair, if you combine this with a laser projector, it could prove to be a vital replacement for holography (i.e. the laser will scan depth, i.e. z-axis, with the LANL technology -- and x- and y-axis with a MEMS micromirror like a CRT TV) without the extensive mathematic calculations that go into generating holographic patterns with the Fourier algorithm.

So...?
 
  • #10
Xitamani is right, the "pen" just send to the computer responsible to the projection where it is pointing and how much of it's slid is pressed, it interprets the data and creates one image of the beam.

Light can be stopped (or close) it was made in lab usig (if my memory don't fails) super cooled xenon gas, but remember, to you actually see one img, the light need to me moving, or it don't reaches your cornea.
 
  • #11
If you could magically stop a laser after a certain distance we'd have invented lightsabers by now.
 

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