Tired of co-workers or family members leaving fingerprints on your computer screen? Someday you might be able to clean your hands by touching your computer display. A international team of researchers has developed a mechanism for using a light projector and ultra sonic speakers to display images on the surfaces of soap bubbles.
By varying the sound, the system can alter the transparency and colors of the projected images. By combining several screens, the system can produce 3D and holographic images. The bubbles are mainly composed of ordinary soap liquid, plus additives that increase the strength and durability of the surface so you can poke your finger through it without popping the bubble.
Lead researcher Yoichi Ochiai has a blog where you can read more about the project and watch demonstration videos, including the one shown below on potential applciations for bubble displays.
Other potential applications include medical imaging, 3D projections at entertainment events, and even a transparent cell phone display.
This article was last modified on January 8, 2023
This article was first published on July 3, 2012
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