heads up display - projects image into eye

["Gregg Vanderheiden" <gv@trace.wisc.edu>]

* "Double Vision: Retinal Displays Add Data Layer"
New York Times (04/26/01) P. E9; Lake, Matt
Although several companies have already developed head-mounted computer
displays, a new product from Microvision promises retinal scanning displays
that would cast pictures onto the back of one's eye, superimposing a digital
image over what is normally seen. The company plans to release a consumer
product, called the Nomad, in the fall that will work with open standards
such television signals. Actually, retinal scanning display technology works
similarly to television and computer monitors in that it projects pixels
directly onto the back of the eye, instead of through a cathode-ray tube
onto a screen. Microvision developed a proprietary system for clinical use
in conjunction with the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. That application allows
doctors to immediately access patient information and medical images.
However, Nomad could also be used by heavy equipment operators to monitor
instrument panels while keeping their eyes on the road, or by service
technicians for reading manuals. Because of the high cost, the aerospace,
military, and medical industries will likely be the first users of the
technology, but eventually it might be used as a way to watch television or
surf the Web.
http://www.nytimes.com/2001/04/26/technology/26HOWW.html
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-- ------------------------------
Gregg C Vanderheiden Ph.D.
Professor - Human Factors
Depts of Ind. and Biomed. Engr. - U of Wis.
Director - Trace R & D Center
Gv@trace.wisc.edu, http://trace.wisc.edu/
FAX 608/262-8848
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