In a remarkable leap forward for holography, researchers at the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) in South Korea have unveiled a state-of-the-art processor capable of transforming ordinary two-dimensional (2D) videos into stunning three-dimensional (3D) holograms in real time. This innovative technology is set to revolutionize how we interact with digital media, with applications ranging from entertainment to advanced automotive displays.
The newly developed Real-Time Holography Processor (RHP) utilizes cutting-edge Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) technology, making it the first processor in the world to harness the power of high-bandwidth memory (HBM). This integration allows for the rapid generation of full-color 3D holograms from 2D video sources, presenting an exciting new frontier in visual display technology.
At an impressive speed of up to 30 frames per second (FPS) and a latency of just 30 milliseconds, the RHP processes video by extracting red, green, and blue color channels alongside depth information. This efficient processing enables users to experience 4K resolution holographic visuals almost instantaneously, a feat previously unimaginable in the realm of holography.
ETRI’s achievement marks a significant advancement over traditional methods, which often rely on software-based hologram generation on standard computers that can be slow and power-hungry. By employing HBM, known for its high performance and efficiency, the RHP is designed to execute complex calculations essential for wave propagation, transforming 2D information into immersive 3D experiences.
In a live demonstration, researchers showcased the processor’s capabilities, converting a range of video content—including popular streaming services like YouTube and Netflix—into vibrant holographic displays without any noticeable delay. Such versatility opens the door to numerous applications, including holographic head-up displays (HUDs) in vehicles, as well as enhanced experiences in virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR) devices.
The journey to develop this groundbreaking technology was years in the making, with researchers dedicating three years of rigorous work to refine the processor. The fruits of their labor were presented at prestigious exhibitions, including the 2023 SID Display Week and SIGGRAPH Asia 2024, where it garnered enthusiastic praise from attendees.
Kwon Won Ok, the principal researcher at ETRI's Digital Holography Research Section, articulated a vision for the future, stating, “Our goal is to create a dedicated holographic media processor chip for general-purpose displays, incorporating advanced holographic image enhancement technologies.” Meanwhile, Hong Kee Hoon, director of the section, emphasized the importance of low power consumption and compact design in making holography technology practical for everyday use.
As ETRI plans to collaborate with industry partners for commercialization, the implications of this technology are vast. From enhancing the automotive industry with advanced HUDs to creating immersive entertainment systems, the real-time holography processor promises to change the way we experience digital content forever.
This groundbreaking work was part of a project funded by the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Institute of Information & Communications Technology Planning & Evaluation, underscoring the significance of government support in fostering technological advancements in South Korea. With this pioneering processor, ETRI has positioned itself at the forefront of the holography revolution, ready to shape the future of how we visualize and interact with our digital world.
