A Maya Geometry Slices Generation Method for Volumetric 3D Display

Abstract

Volumetric 3D display system (alternatively known as true 3D display system) has recently seen great progress. Powerful and functional software that can interfaces with 3D display hardware system was eagerly expected. In this paper we propose a method of generating geometry slices that can be presented on Multi-planar 3D display which will be fused in the human visual system into a 3D volume. Our main novel contribution is to use the programming language of Maya – MEL (Maya Embedded Language) to obtain geometry slices or image slices that meet the projection requirements-- including spinning screen based projection and to and fro translating screen based projection. We show that set of cross-section slices with different thickness, interval angle or distance can be split from a built mechanical component. Moreover the experiments of assembling series of geometry slices together to form a 3D spatial object can be employed to simulate the performance of Multi-planar 3D display. The latest imaging method opens up many application areas when incorporating with a Volumetric 3D display which will enhance visualization of the complex structure , better appreciate the entire 3D data and improve product design, function visualization, manufacturing preview and maintenance training.