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Steinbuch Centre for Computing selects Christie
November 15, 2018
Christie technology delivering precision viewing down to the finest detail
CYPRESS, Calif. – The Virtual Reality (VR) Lab of the Steinbuch Centre for Computing is benefitting from two Christie Mirage D4K2560 projectors and two Christie Spyder X20 video processors being used for its 3D powerwall.
Located approximately 50 miles northwest of Stuttgart, the Steinbuch Centre for Computing (SCC) collects and stores data and was established by the University of Karlsruhe and the Karlsruhe Research Centre in connection with the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). For its new visualization lab, The SCC needed a powerwall to receive crystal-clear images from data calculated by a powerful research computer.
For the installation, the SCC collaborated with Viscon, a Christie partner, to install the 22-feet x 7.5 foot high wall complete with rear projection and the Spyder X20 to manage and control the images.
Pixel-precise display without shadows
“Alongside a large screen width, we were looking for extremely high image quality with correspondingly high resolution,” said Rolf Mayer, laboratory manager, KIT.David Seldner, research assistant at KIT, said presentations range from the simple to complex 3D scenarios with both often running simultaneously. With that in mind, the powerful and flexible Spyder X20 combined with the Mirage projectors is the perfect fit.
“We deliberately opted for rear projection, as it offers the advantage of not casting any shadows when someone stands directly in front of the screen, which happens a lot,” explained Seldner. “After all, when visualizing test results it is important to be able to see all the fine details. The extremely broad resolution bandwidth of approximately 20 million pixels that the Spyder X20 offers is key here, as it allows high-resolution signals to be processed at each of the outputs available.”
Powerful technology, satisfying results
The visualization laboratory is in operation several times each week for 3D simulations that include biomolecular research, urban development, and medicine. The laboratory connects to an auditorium, making it suitable both for interactive teamwork and for presenting results or giving lectures in front of large groups. And, in combination with a tracking system, users can interact directly with the visualized object.
“One of the first projections we ever did was to simulate the para-nasal sinuses of a patient with respiratory problems,” said Seldner. “The images of the inside of the nose produced by computer tomography were projected onto the screen to allow a search for possible causes down to the tiniest detail.”
“We are delighted that we were able to secure optimal implementation of this complex project for the KIT,” added Eric M. Küpper, CEO, Viscon. “The systems available today allow complex things to be displayed in perfect detail. This provides scientists with invaluable support.”
“We have been very satisfied with the results achieved to date. The system is popular and also in demand as a demonstrator at visitor events, such as the Girls’ Day, general open days, pupil colloquiums, class visits and so on,” concluded Mayer.