A Volumetric Display using VFD, and A Display Data Generator

Volumetric displays, which directly draw 3D images in the real 3D space, are expected to be used not only in science but also in art. However, most of these displays need complex and expensive optical systems, so they are rarely used in art. In this paper, we propose and describe a volumetric display that has no such optical systems and can be easily constructed using parts on the market. In the display, sectioned images of 3D objects are displayed in sequence on a vacuum fluorescent display (VFD), which moves in a reciprocating motion, and the 3D images of the objects appear due to afterimage effect. Although the displayed images are small and monochromatic, clear 3D still and animation images can be displayed by the display. We also propose and describe a data generator for the display. The generator offers a frame, which specifies a display area three-dimensionally. Using the frame, the display data for the display can be easily generated on 3D software on the market.