Scalable Unveils Real-Time Projection Mapping API for Moving Objects

Scalable Display Technologies has announced a new Real-Time Projection Mapping API, enabling media server partners to automatically calibrate multiple projectors onto objects that move freely in 3D space — maintaining precise content mapping at every frame. The new capability was debuted in collaboration with 7thSense at InfoComm 2023 in Orlando, FL.

Historically, Scalable's calibration has targeted fixed screen locations. The new API introduces a fundamentally different approach: auto-calibrating a single object across many different positions to generate a meta-calibration for the entire projected volume. This enables high-accuracy 3D projection mapping in real time as an object moves anywhere within a calibrated space. Media servers integrated with Scalable's SDK — including 7thSense — can use volumetric calibration in conjunction with a motion tracking system to achieve precise image registration to a tracked object at up to 240 frames per second.

"The world's most well-known entertainment and theme-park attractions have relied on cutting-edge projection mapping technology for nearly a decade," said James Pietsch, Director of Global Accounts for Scalable Display Technologies. "We are excited to debut this capability with 7thSense as one of Scalable's longest partners in the attractions market and a company that constantly pushes the limits of display technology. As the boundaries of projection mapping are being pushed and tested, we recognize a unique opportunity to deliver a solution that automatically calibrates moving objects in real time. While some manufacturers have introduced this technology with a single projector, or through a time-consuming manual process, we have developed a solution for multiple projectors across a much larger area with much higher accuracy. We are excited to showcase Real-Time Projection Mapping, alongside 7thSense, during InfoComm 2023!"

7thSense is a leader in media serving, pixel processing, and show control for the world's leading entertainment and theme-park attractions. The collaboration builds on a long-standing partnership between the two companies that began when 7thSense became one of Scalable's original media server partners.

Richard Brown, Chief Technology Officer for 7thSense, said, "We have developed technologies for projection mapped experiences for many years now. This latest collaboration with Scalable Display Technologies marks an exciting step change and a truly unique solution for projection mapping 'on-the fly' onto dynamic 3D objects. The opportunities are vast for highly immersive, engaging and interactive applications."