Is "immersive" the key word for the future of TV? Just as Microsoft reveals more on the IllumiRoom "peripheral projected illusion" system, the BBC shows off "Surround Video," its take on the immersion concept at the BFI Southbank, London.
A 7 year BBC R&D development, Surround Video uses room calibration software and reverse projection to create immersive visuals filling the viewer's peripheral field of view.
But how does it work? A standard projector beams surround visuals (as distorted by the software) on a nearby mirror, which in turn reflects the visuals on a wall where an HDTV shows the standard version of the same content. The viewer naturally focuses on the HDTV, while the projections "extend" the visual experience.
The demo seen at the BFI appears mostly effective, even if the system requires motion to work best.