Magic of 3D Could Change the World

At a new technology launch ceremony hosted by Cisco Systems in Bangalore, India in October 2007, a second presenter suddenly came onto the stage, joining the first. The audience was amazed.

The person who came onto the stage was an American working for Cisco Systems in California, 13,000 kilometers away. He appeared on the stage in Bangalore thanks to 3D technology called “On-Stage TelePresence” that the company launched that day.

3D refers to an imaging technique that can show depth and volume, unlike 2D images, such as TV screens or pictures.

The next-generation technology, which combines Internet video conferencing system and 3D technology, can project a lifelike image of a person halfway around the earth as if he or she were actually before your eyes.

3D Vitalizing Online Business-

3D technology applied in business is new territory for the industry. This technology is being combined with a variety of sectors, including the online business and video medical service sectors.

The video conferencing industry currently provides 2D-level services through the Internet and TV screens. However, a revolutionary improvement in the quality of global business and communication is expected through convergence with 3D technology.

Shinsegae Department Store launched a “3D Virtual Fitting Service” this summer, in which consumers purchase clothes after having their 3D avatars with the same body size as theirs try them on without having to visit the store. If the service becomes popular, consumers will soon not even have to try clothes on themselves, which leads to the projection that the online garment distribution industry will be vitalized by this technology.

3D technology is also applicable to medicine. A shining example is a 3D imaging software that dentists use in implant operations.

Choi Yong-seok, a dentistry professor at Kyung Hee University, said, “Because 3D technology enables virtual simulations of implant operations, dentists can grasp the exact locations of implants and nerves, which leads to greater accuracy in operations.”

Boundless Application Areas for 3D Technology-

3D imaging technology is being widely applied to spine surgery, heart movement research, and bone density tests.

The entertainment industry, which has been using 3D graphics to produce video clips, is even developing 3D-support devices.

The KDC Telecom Corporation recently developed next-generation monitors and 3D projectors that allow users to enjoy 3D images without having to wear special eyeglasses.

The company is discussing deals with Disney and Warner Brothers after recently signing supply contracts with Korean film studios, including CGV.

The “G Star” game show introduced a number of next-generation 3D game consoles that enable users to feel lifelike perspectives, signaling the game industry’s keen interest in 3D technology.

KDC Chairman Kim Tae-seop said, “3D technology can be applied not only to movies, but also to mobile phones and ultra-mobile PCs.”

After developing 2.22-inch 3D displays in 2004, Samsung Electronics recently rolled out a 3D DLP TV for the North American market. The Korean electronics giant also introduced a “dual DMB phone,” Korea’s first mobile phone capable of 3D imaging functions, in July 2007, attracting great attention from younger consumers.

imsun@donga.com