Unique Presentation Identifier:

52

Program Type

Honors

Faculty Advisor

Dr. Jessica Young

Document Type

Poster

Location

Face-to-face

Start Date

9-4-2026 1:00 PM

End Date

9-4-2026 3:00 PM

Abstract

The public has long been interested in futuristic technology, especially ‘holograms’ and their possibilities, evidenced by pop culture icons such as Iron Man and the popularity of the Sci-Fi Genre. The popular term ‘hologram’ actually describes the phenomenon of a volumetric display, where light is directed to form 3D forms in the air. Attempts to create these volumetric displays began as early as 1988 with creators like Gregg Favelora and Alan Sullivan. As technology improved, so too did the ability to make the futuristic ‘hologram’ a reality.

Another common form of these interactive holograms is the floating display, which may have an even more immediate implementation in the modern day. They are distinct from volumetric displays, using light reflection and convergence to create the 3D image, as opposed to an oscillating plane, and can rely on sensors for a user to interact. Floating displays have useful applications in healthcare, such as preserving sanitation, since there is no screen to touch. Due to only being visible when standing in a particular area, they can also serve as an excellent way to preserve privacy while entering details like a banking number or when using a voting booth.

A creator by the username Mac70 developed a floating display in August 2024, publishing his results to his YouTube channel and hackster.io page. In the interest of these developments in volumetric display technology—particularly of the Mac70’s creation—this project seeks to develop a similar display technology for the university to utilize. As a floating display, it can be modified to display promotional material and, due to its relatively compact nature, can be brought to recruitment events or college fairs, adding an impactful flair that students would remember.

Comments

This is an on-going project and still in the process of being completed.

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Apr 9th, 1:00 PM Apr 9th, 3:00 PM

Creating a Floating Volumetric Display

Face-to-face

The public has long been interested in futuristic technology, especially ‘holograms’ and their possibilities, evidenced by pop culture icons such as Iron Man and the popularity of the Sci-Fi Genre. The popular term ‘hologram’ actually describes the phenomenon of a volumetric display, where light is directed to form 3D forms in the air. Attempts to create these volumetric displays began as early as 1988 with creators like Gregg Favelora and Alan Sullivan. As technology improved, so too did the ability to make the futuristic ‘hologram’ a reality.

Another common form of these interactive holograms is the floating display, which may have an even more immediate implementation in the modern day. They are distinct from volumetric displays, using light reflection and convergence to create the 3D image, as opposed to an oscillating plane, and can rely on sensors for a user to interact. Floating displays have useful applications in healthcare, such as preserving sanitation, since there is no screen to touch. Due to only being visible when standing in a particular area, they can also serve as an excellent way to preserve privacy while entering details like a banking number or when using a voting booth.

A creator by the username Mac70 developed a floating display in August 2024, publishing his results to his YouTube channel and hackster.io page. In the interest of these developments in volumetric display technology—particularly of the Mac70’s creation—this project seeks to develop a similar display technology for the university to utilize. As a floating display, it can be modified to display promotional material and, due to its relatively compact nature, can be brought to recruitment events or college fairs, adding an impactful flair that students would remember.