Holodepth: Programmable Depth-Varying Projection via Computer-Generated Holography

Dorian Chan, Matthew O'Toole, Sizhuo Ma, Jian Wang

Abstract:

Typical projectors are designed to programmably display 2D content at a single depth. In this work, we explore how to engineer a
depth-varying projector system that is capable of forming desired patterns at multiple depths. To this end, we leverage a holographic approach, but a naïve implementation of such a system is limited in its depth programmability. Inspired by recent work in near-eye displays, we add a lens array to a holographic projector to maximize the depth variation of the projected content, for which we propose an optimization-driven calibration method. We demonstrate a number of applications using this system, including novel 3D interfaces for future wearables, privacy-preserving projection, depth sensing, and light curtains.