Extending the Working Volume of Projection-based Mixed Reality Systems

Abstract

The working volume of a Mixed Reality (MR) system - which superimposes the real environment with computer- generated virtual content - strongly depends upon the output/display device used. Single screen projection systems like the Barco Baron Table or the FakeSpace ImmersaDesk M seem rather limited regarding their working volume when compared with the CAVE, which is the only projection-based MR installation providing a wide range of viewing directions. We show how the working volume of such projection based MR systems can be extended by tracking not only the user, but also the projection screen and demonstrate how the tilting mechanism of a standard Barco Baron Table can be used to enlarge the range of usable viewing directions of the system. We also give a description of the complete calibration procedure and set-up necessary to employ this concept with any movable back projection system.