With the help of NTT's HenGenTou ("deformation lamp") monochrome projector, Johann Sebastian Bach smiles for the first time in more than two centuries.
Researchers at Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (NTT; Tokyo, Japan) have developed what they call HenGenTou (or "deformation lamp"), which adds motion to static non-self-emitting photographic images (even those on paper) using a projector that projects slight monochromatic deviations to the image. The improved projection-mapping technique can, for example, make a candle flame in a photo appear to flutter in the breeze or a person in a photo suddenly start to speak.
The best way to intuitively understand the technique is to view the video below.
(Video: NTT)
Conventional projection-mapping techniques rely entirely on the projector itself to create the image; in contrast, the monochrome NTT technique only slightly alters existing static photographs. NTT says the technique could be used in advertising (adding motion to static signs), interior design, art, and entertainment.
NTT says the technique can even be applied to some static 3D objects to give them the appearance of motion.
John Wallace was with Laser Focus World for nearly 25 years, retiring in late June 2022. He obtained a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and physics at Rutgers University and a master's in optical engineering at the University of Rochester. Before becoming an editor, John worked as an engineer at RCA, Exxon, Eastman Kodak, and GCA Corporation.
