Three-dimensional volumetric display in rubidium vapor

Isaac I. Kim; Eric J. Korevaar; Harel Hakakha

doi:10.1117/12.237014

29 March 1996 Three-dimensional volumetric display in rubidium vapor

Isaac I. Kim, Eric J. Korevaar, Harel Hakakha

Proceedings Volume 2650, Projection Displays II; (1996) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.237014
Event: Electronic Imaging: Science and Technology, 1996, San Jose, CA, United States

Abstract

The successful demonstration of a novel 3D volumetric display based on the intersection of two low power diode laser beams in an atomic vapor is presented. A 780 nm laser and a 630 nm laser are directed via mirrors and x-y scanners towards an enclosure containing rubidium vapor, where they intersect at 90 degrees. Rubidium atoms within the small intersection volume undergo 5s_1/2 to 5p_3/2 excitation from the 780 nm laser, and then 5p_3/2 to 6d_5/2 excitation from the 630 nm laser, resulting in red omnidirectional fluorescence from the intersection point. Tuning of the lasers to the exact excitation wavelengths resulted in an extended red spot with maximum brightness. By tuning the lasers slightly off the transition wavelengths, a very localized red spot with slightly less brightness was produced. A series of intersection points were scanned in a time less than the eye's 15 Hz refresh rate to create true 3D volumetric images such as a floating cube and rotating globe, which were viewable from many angles. The maximum speed of the mechanical scanners limited the complexity of the 3D images. By incorporating higher power lasers and faster acousto-optical scanners, this technique could allow the 3D viewing of real time air traffic control, medical images, or theater battlefield management.

Citation Download Citation

Isaac I. Kim, Eric J. Korevaar, and Harel Hakakha "Three-dimensional volumetric display in rubidium vapor", Proc. SPIE 2650, Projection Displays II, (29 March 1996); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.237014

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