What do you think makes Canon's MR technology so outstanding?
- Aratani
- I think the fact that we spent more than ten years researching both the HMD hardware and the position-matching software sets us apart from others. This is because, if you only have one — either hardware or software — no matter how excellent it may be, it will be difficult to link [the technology] to practical use.
- Inoguchi
- Currently, 3-D imaging has suddenly come into the spotlight, but one feature of Canon's MR technology is that it is interactive in real-time. Users can make virtual objects appear in front of them, and can also command these virtual objects. For example, it is possible to view a large ship from any angle or stand on its bridge and enjoy a panoramic view of the ship's progress. By looking out of the bridge's window, it is possible to look down on the deck below. I think one of the technology's most attractive features is that it's not simply passive viewing.
In which markets are these attractive features most likely to be of use?
- Inoguchi
- With the spread of 3D-CAD (Computer-Aided Design), I think there is potential in the design and manufacturing fields. In particular, automobile and automobile components manufacturers, shipbuilding companies and construction companies.
- Matsui
- I think it can be useful in the design of large-scale building structures, things that aren't produced in high-volume, because it allows users to virtually experience what it is like inside the structure, even during the design stage. This technology enables production without prototypes, and is useful for not only large objects, but also the production of such products as cameras and copying machines.
- Aratani
- As an example, a railway company recently used our technology when installing new platform screen doors to check the finished article beforehand. This verification exercise was carried out during the few hours in the middle of the night when there are no trains running, and MR technology was apparently very useful in providing a visual confirmation.
What about the medical field?
- Aratani
- I think this technology could be very helpful when providing training for surgical operations. It would provide a more realistic experience than working on dummies. Also, doctors could probably use the technology when explaining illnesses and treatments to their patients.
So, if we think about its application in training and providing explanations, could it be used across a wide range of fields besides medicine?
- Inoguchi
- Absolutely. It's also ideally suited for exhibitions. Even if you don't have the actual object, all you need is the data. At a major dinosaur exhibition held at the Makuhari Convention Center [outside Tokyo] in 2009, visitors were able to experience dinosaurs that looked incredibly real and were moving around in front of them.
Regardless of the market, what do you think will be the biggest obstacle in promoting the use of MR?
- Nakanishi
- Well, it's probably going to be cost. In the future, even if we try to develop products for consumers, cost is going to be a barrier.
- Aratani
- In addition to keeping products affordable, it is also important to increase the number of users who try out the product and say, "This is really handy," or "That really helped." This is why we're providing corporations, universities and research organizations, and other groups with opportunities to experience the technology.
Great. As my last question, we'd like to hear your thoughts as a developer about the future of this groundbreaking MR technology.
- Nakanishi
- Well, from a hardware design point of view, I'd like to do as much as I can to clear even a few of the hurdles that prevent the spread of MR. The first thing I'd like to tackle is bringing down the cost. Then, I'd like to try to make the technology easier to use by developing lighter cables and wireless applications, and making the external appearance of the HMD look a bit sleeker.
- Inoguchi
- As an optical engineer, I feel strongly motivated to improve the reproduction of real space. I would like to expand the range of real space the user views when using MR and improve the imaging in order to provide a better augmented reality experience.
- Matsui
- From a personal perspective, I'd like to see devices that can be used easily in the home. Like, before you buy a major household appliance, it would be nice if you could see what it looks like installed in your house. Or maybe you could take a walk with your favorite cartoon character... Maybe it's way off in the future, but one day I'd like to see devices that can be used for both practical and leisure purposes.
- Aratani
- To add to that, I'd like to see a system that can be quickly set up anytime, anywhere. Speaking for myself and for the whole team, I think that's the kind of development direction that we want to be working towards.
Thank you all for your insights into this unique and fascinating technology.
