Erasable Display Cube Shows 2D, 3D, and Animated Images

A novel 3D display could be an acrylic cube with an internal image that can be easily erased and rewritten. This technology enables the creation of 2D, 3D, and even animated images.

However, the display begins with a simple PDMS polymer, treated with a chemical “switch” that renders it light-sensitive. The key component of this switch is azobenzene, combined with boron difluoride to enhance its light reactivity.

Moreover, this chemical switch is activated by red light, allowing an image to be etched into the polymer by projecting it in red light. The image can then be easily reset using blue light or a bit of heat, making it easy to rewrite.

From Simple Films to Suspended Objects in a 6-Inch Cube

The team experimented with various approaches. Two-dimensional images were easily drawn onto thin films of the treated polymer, as shown in the image of a dog. The technique becomes even more impressive when used with a 6-inch (15 cm) thick cube.

By projecting light from different angles, a 3D image can be created from 2D slices, making it appear as though an object is suspended inside the cube. Again, blue light or heat can erase the image, readying the cube for a new one.

Rewritable 3D Displays for Architecture and Medical Imaging

In fact, the researchers propose that these rewritable, handheld 3D displays could be useful for architectural plans or even for displaying medical scans of organs or bones in three dimensions.

“This is like reversible 3D printing,” said Ivan Aprahamian, co-corresponding author of the study. “You can take any polymer with suitable optical properties—meaning it’s translucent—and enhance it with our chemical switch. That polymer then becomes a 3D display. You don’t need virtual reality headsets or complex equipment. All you need is the right piece of plastic and our technology.”

Even more impressive, the team discovered they could animate 2D images within a 3D cube by projecting multiple 2D frames. When the cube is rotated, it gives the appearance of a moving image. The researchers believe this concept will improve with further research.

“Scaling up will involve fine-tuning the chemical switch properties to enhance resolution, contrast, and refresh rate,” said Alex Lippert, co-corresponding author of the study. “In principle, the projector system can be scaled up and developed into a turnkey solution with automated hardware and accompanying software for easy use.”

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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