Multi-Technology Zone

Camera technology, in the form of the popular PTZ (pan, tilt, zoom) form factor, is constantly improving in response to demands from many vertical markets, such as retail, healthcare, security, and hospitality. PTZ cameras have the benefit of being small, easy to set up and connect to networks, and offer high resolutions – 4K is the new normal. The latest trend is for autosensing PTZ systems that can follow and target users with autofocus and zoom, as well as incorporating cameras into AV bars with video capture and facial recognition technology.

Sound is also a key player here. Echo cancellation and noise reduction have led to enhanced microphones, with beamforming mics that can also track and isolate speakers. In contrast, digitally steerable speakers can direct sound to where it’s needed most, with the greatest clarity. Next-generation audio (NGA), in the form of binaural codecs and other immersive formats, can add another dimension to the user experience, either via headsets or multiple speakers; NGA codecs can also offer alternative commentary options, listener control of sound elements – useful for auditory issues and enhanced dialogue – as well as enhanced audio description services.

Visitor attractions and museums are key beneficiaries of the advances in this area. They also employ projection mapping for highlighting specific features, creating new illusions, or turning a featureless space into a unique environment. Fine-pixel-pitch LED videowalls offer huge canvases for display, illumination, and interactivity. Multi-dimensional sound, intelligent cameras, robotic lighting, and interactive sensors can create rich immersive environments for high-brow audiences, tour groups, and thrill-seekers alike. Another advance is in 3D scanning and holography, allowing for the creation of ‘digital twins’ of precious objects and inaccessible buildings that users can interact with and explore. VR and AR technologies are natural partners for this trend. Holographic experiences are becoming popular in retail and event spaces, with hyper-realistic 3D objects and people appearing to be present in the shop window.

Combining complementary technologies can also be used to deliver an immersive experience in the hospitality sector. A recent example is a restaurant on a cruise ship in the Mediterranean where projectors, motion sensing cameras, LED display walls, and scent atomisers are combined with local speciality meals to turn each dining experience into a voyage of discovery based on the geographical location of the ship. Projection-mapped contextual elements on the surface of the table react to the movements and gestures of the diners, while scents align with the localised content playing on the videowall.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to change the playing field in the Multi-Technology Zone. AI can provide real-time transcription and translation from natural language models for streaming video and audio. It can be used to automatically adjust camera framing and audio levels, as well as apply noise reduction for video and audio streams.  Generative AI can produce text and image content that responds almost instantly to user interactions.

AI is also moving into sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, and smart homes, using data analytics and enhanced voice recognition to predict and allocate resources, recognise behaviour patterns and deliver timely information to patients and residents.

There are numerous companies, large and small, exhibiting in the Multi-Technology Zone at ISE 2024. Samsung is a leader in high-resolution displays, including The Wall; LG’s OLED and LED displays, projector and cloud-enabled devices are globally acclaimed; Christie’s projectors are renowned for ‘awe-inspiring’ installations to engage audiences; Epson specialises in versatile, high brightness 3LCD laser projectors for immersive, interactive experiential environments at major venues and visitor attractions; Panasonic offers a range of high brightness projectors as well as high-quality displays; Digital Projection offers an extensive line of ultra-high-performance 3-chip and single-chip DLP projection systems for an array of demanding applications; Newtonlab Space designs and manufactures holographic devices as well as creating their content; Jupiter Systems offers data visualisation in video walls, control rooms, large venues, conference rooms, and more; while Crestron is a recognised expert in video and audio, offering not just cameras, screens, and soundbars, but the interconnects, control hardware, presentation systems, lighting, and scheduling solutions to support them.