Erdem Ulusoy

Non-iterative phase hologram computation for low speckle holographic image projection

Phase-only spatial light modulators (SLMs) are widely used in holographic display applications, including holographic image projection (HIP). Most phase computer generated hologram (CGH) calculation algorithms have an iterative structure with a high computational load, and also are prone to speckle noise, as a result of the random phase terms applied on the desired images to mitigate the encoding noise. In this paper, we present a non-iterative algorithm, where simple Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) relations are exploited to compute phase CGHs that exactly control half of the desired image samples (those on even - or odd - indexed rows - or columns) via a single Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) and trivial arithmetic operations. The encoding noise appearing on the uncontrolled half of the image samples is reduced by the application of structured, non-random initial phase terms so that speckle noise is also kept low. High quality reconstructions are obtained under temporal averaging of several SLM frames. Interlaced video within half of the addressable image area is readily deliverable without frame rate division. Our algorithm provides about 6X and 20X reduction in computational cost compared to IFTA and FIDOC algorithms, respectively. Simulations and experiments verify that the algorithm constitutes a promising option for real-time computation of phase CGHs.

Super stereoscopy technique for comfortable and realistic 3D displays

Two well-known problems of stereoscopic displays are the accommodation-convergence conflict and the lack of natural blur for defocused objects. We present a new technique that we name Super Stereoscopy (SS3D) to provide a convenient solution to these problems. Regular stereoscopic glasses are replaced by SS3D glasses which deliver at least two parallax images per eye through pinholes equipped with light selective filters. The pinholes generate blur-free retinal images so as to enable correct accommodation, while the delivery of multiple parallax images per eye creates an approximate blur effect for defocused objects. Experiments performed with cameras and human viewers indicate that the technique works as desired. In case two, pinholes equipped with color filters per eye are used; the technique can be used on a regular stereoscopic display by only uploading a new content, without requiring any change in display hardware, driver, or frame rate. Apart from some tolerable loss in display brightness and decrease in natural spatial resolution limit of the eye because of pinholes, the technique is quite promising for comfortable and realistic 3D vision, especially enabling the display of close objects that are not possible to display and comfortably view on regular 3DTV and cinema.

Holographic Image Projection with Phase Only Spatial Light Modulators via Non-Iterative CGH Computation Method

​A holographic image projection system using a non-iterative CGH computation method to encode a phase-only Spatial Light Modulator (SLM) is proposed. Experimental results indicate that the correlated encoding noise smooth out by time averaging.

Fast computer-generated hologram computation using rendered depth map image

We propose a method for computing realistic computer-generated holograms (CGHs) of three-dimensional (3D) objects, where we benefit from well-established graphical processing units (GPUs) and computer graphics techniques to handle occlusion, shading and parallax effects. The graphics render provides a 2D perspective image including occlusion and shading effects. We also extract the depth map data of the scene. The intensity values and 3D positions of object points are extracted by combining the rendered intensity image and the depth map (Z-buffer) image. We divide the depth range into several planes and quantize the depth value of 3D image points to the nearest plane. In the CGH computation part, we perform proper Fresnel transformations of these planar objects and sum them up to create the hologram corresponding to the particular viewpoint. We then repeat the entire procedure for all possible viewpoints and cover the hologram area. The experimental results show that the technique is capable of performing high quality reconstructions in a fast manner.

Dual purpose passive screen for simultaneous display and imaging

Advanced imaging and display techniques are widely explored for realistic content capture and visualization but cannot fully follow the miniaturization and mobility trends in technology. Wide field-of-view displays require large surfaces and image capture requires separate installation of cameras having separate footprints and perspective views. Here we propose a novel, portable dual purpose passive screen that can simultaneously facilitate display and imaging with unprecedented features and performance. The optical design of the screen is presented. A prototype of the dual-purpose screen paired with a camera and a low power mobile projector is demonstrated. The developed screen has size of 28×21cm2 to facilitate capture of eye contacted perspective view and displays high-quality images with high-brightness (>100cd/m2 ) using only 15 lumen pico projector.

Wearable Augmented Reality Displays

Wearable augmented reality displays and associated light efficient screens are presented. We review three recent developments in augmented reality displays: head-mounted projection display, retro-reflective augmented reality screen and light efficient 3D augmented reality display.

Wearable and augmented reality displays using MEMS and SLMs

In this talk, we present the various types of 3D displays, head-mounted projection displays and wearable displays developed in our group using MEMS scanners, compact RGB laser light sources, and spatial light modulators.

Wave optics analysis of corner-cube retro-reflectors in near-to-eye displays based on scanning laser projectors

In near to eye displays based on scanning laser projectors, retro-reflectors seem as convenient image relay components since they can ideally be placed at any location on the scanned beam path. In case of practical retro reflectors though, such as corner cube retro-reflectors (CCRs), the relayed image suffers from loss in quality and resolution due to the positional shift in the retro-reflected rays and the diffraction effects. We perform a wave optics simulation to analyze the image relay performance of a CCR. Our model assumes that the scanned spot of the projector is imaged by the CCR into an array of spots, which superpose and interfere to yield the effective scan spot seen by an eye looking at the CCR. The results indicate that the CCR results in a significant broadened spot size. Experimental results verify the simulation model in terms of achievable resolution and image quality.