Welcome to PicoVolumetric, an innovative project that brings 3D volumetric displays to life using transparent OLED screens and the Raspberry Pi Pico. This project demonstrates cutting-edge technology, and showcases skills in hardware design, embedded programming, and visual computing.
PicoVolumetric is a proof-of-concept volumetric display that uses multiple transparent OLED screens stacked in layers to create a 3D visualization effect. By leveraging the Raspberry Pi Pico's processing power and GPIO capabilities, the project synchronizes the rendering of images across the OLED layers to produce a dynamic, interactive 3D experience.
This project is designed to highlight technical expertise in:
- Embedded Systems Development: Programming the Raspberry Pi Pico in C++/MicroPython to control hardware components.
- Hardware Integration: Interfacing transparent OLED screens with microcontrollers and designing a stable, modular frame.
- 3D Visualization: Creating volumetric effects by rendering 2D slices of 3D objects across multiple transparent layers.
- Optimization: Ensuring smooth performance and synchronization across hardware components.
picoVolumetric.webm
- Volumetric Rendering: Displays 3D objects by stacking 2D images on transparent OLED screens.
- Compact Design: Built with a small footprint using the Raspberry Pi Pico and lightweight materials.
- Open Source: Fully documented and customizable for further development.
- Microcontroller: Raspberry Pi Pico (RP2040)
- Display: Transparent OLED screens (multiple layers)
- Programming Languages: C++
- Power Supply: USB-powered for portability
- Frame: Custom-designed modular frame for screen alignment and stability
PicoVolumetric has a wide range of potential applications, including:
- Education: Teaching concepts in 3D visualization, physics, and engineering.
- Prototyping: Exploring new display technologies for consumer electronics.
- Art Installations: Creating visually stunning 3D art pieces.
- Gaming: Developing immersive gaming experiences with volumetric displays.
I love volumetric screens. This project was heavily inspired by creator Sean Hodgins https://www.youtube.com/@SeanHodgins
- Adding interactivity with motion sensors or touch inputs.
- Increasing the number of OLED layers for higher resolution.
- Exploring wireless communication for remote updates.
- Optimizing power consumption for portable use.
To replicate or build upon this project, follow these steps:
Please see raspberry pi's Pico programming guide for C++. At the time of writing this repo, the pico was brand new.
If you're interested in this project or would like to collaborate, feel free to reach out @drewsipher