Holograms have been present for a long time, but nowadays, they have become a part of our reality and are used in so many fields. They are completely changing whole industries, from entertainment to healthcare, and providing so many benefits. But how do they work, what is the story behind them, and what benefits do they bring? Let’s check it all out.
What is a hologram?
A hologram is a three-dimensional image that is created by the interference of light waves. It records both the intensity and the phase of light waves, which makes it completely different from regular photography. Its name suggests its main purpose, as it literally means ‘the whole message,’ meaning that it is a complete visualization of an object, not just a pure image anyone can take.
The history behind it
Holography was invented by Hungarian physicist Dennis Gabor, but it was not like the one we know today. When the laser was invented by Theodore Maiman, people could see a quality projection. Since the start, this technology has seen great improvements. At first, they were of low quality and could be seen only in certain conditions. Nowadays, it is quite unbelievable how realistic the images are that are projected. Nowadays, many digital components work together to make the best possible image.
Augmented reality holograms
Augmented reality holograms are some of the most exciting and interesting uses of this technology, as they display 3D images in the real world using smartphones, tablets, or AR glasses. These holograms use cameras and sensors to map the physical space around a person, and then they project a 3D model into the view field, making it feel completely real. For example, you can use this kind of technology to see how some new sofa or wardrobe will fit into your room or to see some character from your favorite movie walking past you. Such a kind of holographic display is amazing for so many things, and it has many practical and beneficial uses as well, as many companies are using them to showcase their products. Also, they are quite interactive, which means that a person can control them, zoom in for details, or even collaborate with others in shared AR spaces. For example, students can explore 3D models of the human body, or engineers can explore complex machinery needed for their scope of work.
Digital holography
Digital holography refers to the technique where traditional holography is digitized. With the use of digital cameras and computer algorithms, it creates images. With the use of different sensors, it is able to capture images in real time much better than some traditional methods. Once the sensors pick up an image, it is uploaded to the computer, which deconstructs every part of it so that it can be reconstructed in a holographic form. With the use of AI technology, this technique has improved immensely. Simple, one-dimensional pictures can be made into realistic holograms with ease. This has opened many doors for many different kinds of people who look to innovate new things.
Light field displays
Another technology that drives many improvements when it comes to holograms is light field displays. This display represents light rays within a scene; it captures everything from the direction of the rays to the color and intensity. This enables people to have large holographic displays that can be seen from different sides without losing quality. The viewer that interacts with this hologram has the sensation that there is a real object in front of them, which is floating. This display can be used in a variety of ways, mostly for entertainment, and since they are not that common, it attracts a lot of people who want to experience it.
Volumetric displays
Unlike light field displays, which project 2D images that stimulate 3D images within a space. Volumetric displays project a 3D image within a physical space. Using different types of technology such as lasers, LED lights, and others. These types of displays are usually used in billboards, concerts, and some other forms of entertainment.
Projectors
Holographic projectors project realistic 3D images in the air, and they do not require any viewing aid to be seen. This type of tech is usually used to promote different events, such as concerts. Some more interactive versions can respond to touch, voice, and movement, which brings a lot of intrigue to them.
Entertainment and live shows
Holograms are also used in the entertainment industry, where they help to create unforgettable experiences and transform whole events. For example, they are used during concerts to display the characters of artists who are no longer alive, like Michael Jackson or Prince, which makes the whole event wonderful. Also, holograms are used in theaters and cinemas, where they can present characters and scenes, which adds a layer of magic and immersion. The gaming industry also benefits a lot from this usage, as it enhances the players’ gaming experience, making them interact with 3D characters from the comfort of their gaming room. As can be seen, holograms are completely transforming various aspects of the entertainment industry, making it more innovative, interactive, and engaging.
Tourism
Tourism and cultural preservation also benefit a lot from the use of holograms, as museums can use them to present some ancient artifacts, lost landmarks, and historical scenes. People can feel like they are visiting some ancient cities or ruins, thanks to holographic representation. Also, these models are used for some cultural performances, like traditional dances and rituals, which helps to record them and save them for future generations who should be aware of their national heritage. It can be proudly said that holograms are successfully blending the past with modern times and are making history more accessible so that many cultural treasures can be preserved and cherished for many years to come.
Many fields benefit from using holographic technology, which can completely transform some events and projects. The good thing is that this technology is constantly improving, so we can enjoy many other uses and benefits it brings along, whether it is improving how we communicate, experiencing the world around us, or understanding ourselves and our origins.