Sony presents new tech at the SXSW show in Austin, Texas to perform various experimental prototypes based on its technologies. Among the inventions on display at the Wow Factory is an Air Hockey table. That is featuring augmented reality features through image sensors and projectors. An overview of the future of the RA.
At this week’s SXSW show in Austin, Texas, Sony Technology is hosting an exhibition called Wow Factory. That is the opportunity for the Japanese to present many prototypes of games and other experimental gadgets. That is based on its technology, created in partnership with engineers or artists.
Sony: an Air Hockey table with image sensors and projectors
Among the crazy inventions highlighted during the exhibition include a fascinating futuristic Air Hockey table. With this installation, Sony manages to offer augmented reality features without using a headset or glasses. To do this, the Japanese giant uses projectors and sensors capable of following the movements and measuring depth and pressure.
At first glance, the prototype is similar to any Air Hockey table for three players. It is a circular table, on which are a hockey puck and three rackets. However, this installation embeds two latest Sony IMX382 video sensors. These sensors are capable of detecting and tracking objects at a speed of 1000 frames per second.
The first sensor is located above the table and follows the movements of the puck. The second sensor is hidden under the table and tracks the actions of the hands and rackets of the players. Finally, a projector allows displaying an interface and virtual hockey pucks on the surface of the table.
Virtual elements interact with physical elements
With image sensors, players can interact with virtual elements projected on the table realistically in real time. Specifically, it is possible to hit the virtual pucks using his real racket precisely as you would run a real puck. Likewise, virtual palets bounce against the actual palettes and edges of the table in an incredibly realistic way.
Thus, in addition to the real physical puck, five virtual pucks rebound in all directions and collide on the table. The three players aim to protect their respective camps by preventing one of these discs from reaching their goal. The result is joyful chaos guaranteeing crazy games.
Sony proves that augmented reality does not require headphones
Specially designed for the Wow Factory exhibition, this augmented reality Air Hockey game will probably never be marketed. However, this demonstration is a real tour de force and proves that augmented reality can work without the need to put an imposing helmet on his face.
In fact, shortly, interactive virtual images could well punctuate the real world. The billboards shop windows, coffee tables or even windows could become screens on which will be projected augmented reality elements.
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