[Paper] Expanding Viewing Area of Mid-air Images of 3D Objects Using Retro-Transmissive Plates

Abstract

In tabletop systems using mid-air images, the viewing area of mid-air images in multiple directions around the table enables various experiences. When displaying mid-air images of 3D objects using a Retro-Transmissive Plate (RT Plate), two RT Plates are commonly used to correct pseudoscopic effects. However, since the two plates must be positioned with an offset, the viewing area of the mid-air image is limited to one direction of the table, and there is a distance between the observer and the mid-air image. The proposed method uses multiple symmetrical mirror structures perpendicular to the two plates. By using mirror images to virtually double the length of the plates, the method expands the viewing area, allowing the mid-air image to be viewed from opposite sides of the table. Additionally, eliminating the positional offset between the two plates enables the distance from the observers to the mid-air image displayable area to be reduced.