It was an immersive VR system comprising a 4-sided screen (front side 3.6 x 3.6 m, left and right sides 2.25 x 3.6 m, floor side 3.6 x 2.25 m) and five lamp-illuminated WUXGA projectors. However, due to deterioration of light sources and overall ageing, the system needed an update. In order to enhance the functionality of the system, the projectors were now replaced by Itochu Techno-Solutions with five of the latest Barco 4K laser-based UDM-4K15 projectors with Ultra Short Throw lenses.
The UDM-4K15, which features 15,000 lumens and is capable of projecting 3D images in 4K/WQXGA, employs a laser light source so it does not require periodic lamp replacements like in conventional projectors. In addition, because the luminance of the laser light source declines very slowly, the system can always be used at the same level of brightness with consistent performances.
The projectors also support Dual Eye Point (simultaneous projection of two perspectives). Up to now VR imaging has only been able to be viewed correctly by one person, but future software modifications will allow two people to view videos properly, each from their own different perspective. This would make it possible to conduct even more accurate examinations, drills, etc.
(Photo courtesy of: Japan Atomic Energy Agency)