P3D Re: Stereo Laser Pointers??

[roberts@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (John W Roberts)]

>Date: Wed, 5 May 1999 13:02:33 -0600
>From: Bob_Maxey@xxxxxxxxxxxx
>Subject: P3D Stereo Laser Pointers??

>I have a hard time thinking any possible use for a device as described. 
>Perhaps something else would serve you better. 

Not sure whether you're asking why have a stereo laser pointer at all, or
referring to one of the implementations described.

I've lost track of the original description, but for a laser pointer that
could appear to project a dot at different depths within a projected scene,
it could be used for the same things for which people who give presentations
using 2D projected slides and video use a conventional laser pointer.
A person showing a projected image could point out features in the image
with such a pointer.

EPCOT has a place where visitors can look into the main computer room - it's
set up with a recording describing the various pieces of equipment, with
blinking lights and other effects appearing in 3-space in the room.
I consider it a very clever and effective presentation.

Perhaps an undesirable side effect of the heavy emphasis on stereo photo
competitions is that there's a tendency to think of stereo projection mostly
in terms of competitions.

>BTW: Green laser pointers are now available at reasonable
>prices.

How reasonable? :-)  I've seen some in the $300-400 price range.

John R


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