The 3D Sensei is a proposed 3D holographic martial arts teaching tool that would allow students and teachers to view pre-recorded techniques from any angle in interactive 3D. It would use motion capture of skilled martial artists, a spinning multi-sided mirror, a high-speed projector, and precise algorithms to project 360-degree 3D holograms of techniques. Initial feedback from the martial arts community indicated a need for such a product and interest in how it could help with learning techniques individually or understanding kata without partners. Skilled martial artists are being sought to contribute motion capture data to build the library of techniques.

1. 3D SENSEI Seamus Mc Gurgan

2. Introduction

3. A tool is needed to aid the clarity of teaching martial arts. It can generate a constant reference point for both students struggling to remember the finer details of a stance, and help teachers explain complex techniques with more than just their own anatomy.

4. Enter the 3D Sensei. It is a 3D Holographic Martial Arts Teaching Tool that functions as a teaching aid that is: auto-stereoscopic omnidirectional interactive

5. How does it work? Pre – recorded motion capture to display techniques Spinning mirror High speed DLP Projector Precise math algorithm

6. Pre – recorded motion capture To amass an archive of visual techniques, I will need the help of various skilled martial artists across many different disciplines. This information can be played back by the hologram to provide this innovative service. The quality of this product will be directly influenced by the quality of people used to model these techniques, therefore it is imperative that we seek the assistance of those highest in their field.

7. Spinning mirror The mirror is multi-sided, angled at 45 degrees and is covered in an anisotropic holographic diffuser. Spun on a turntable at a rate of 900-1200 rpm and encased in a glass box for safety. As the mirror spins, it reflects a different and accurate image to each viewer.

8. A built-in camera detects the correct axial perspective needed to create the correct view for each individual viewer. This camera also enables camera tracking to allow gesture recognition, so users can manipulate and interact with the model with hand gestures to slow down or stop during techniques whilst highlighting different pressure points along the body.

9. High speed Projector Images are reflected at a rate of 5000 frames-per-second into the surface area of the mirror. These come together to create a real-space-three-dimensional object ‘within’ the mirror. It projects 360 degree views with 1.25 degree separations and updates 20 times a second.

10. Algorithm To control these reflections, a math formula renders each projection at different heights and traces each projected beam back to the display area to find the correct position of the viewer. The system updates itself in real time (at 200HZ) and adjusts itself to the varying heights and distances of the user. This means that as the user moves around the hologram, the image is kept in place, according to that user’s perspective.

11. Hardware A small computer is hidden underneath to carry out the system’s projection geometry and synchronise the projector and mirror speeds. A standard NVIDIA 8800 graphic card is used along with a FPGA-based image encoder to form the projection output, which is of DVI format. This means a standard ‘off-the-shelf’ projector has the capabilities to display this hologram.

12. Initial Build Costing Projector - £250 Protective Glass - £100 Reflective Mirror - £50 CPU Hardware - £100 = £500 per unit

13. How will the Martial Arts Community Respond to such a product? The 3D Sensei has received an overwhelming positive response form the community, across all disciplines. Everyone could immediately identify a need they have that is specific to their style, and they each saw how the 3D Sensei could help them personally.

14. Thauma (Ju-jitsu) : “You could walk around and view from different angles then it would be much better than a DVD. Also the ability to zoom in would be useful to see the detail of the application of wrist lock for example. An added bonus would be the ability to understand the mechanics of resulting action on the attacker.” SpikeD (Kung Fu): “Personally I think that in Karate Katas, seeing the kata performed without the attackers can stretch the imagination for new students, so being able to turn on / off the training partner would be a useful way to understand the kata.”

15. Danny4114 (Karate): “All the times I've tried to learn something but I don't have a teacher with me all the time. If I can watch somebody do a technique in slow motion from a 360 degree angle, I can imagine that helping immensely.”

16. How can I help? As a master of your disciple, I am giving you an oppurtunity to be part of this unique product. I am seeking those who have perfected their art, and are willing to expanding their teaching outside their own dojo, and into the lives of others. By lending your skill to this project, you will be setting the standard worldwide for your art.

17. Benefits International and world-wide recognition of being part of this revolutionary product. Once completed, you will receive copies of the 3D Sensei exclusively for your own dojo before it is used elsewhere. This will allow you to see a vast increase in the numbers of your students, as they will come for the flair of the hologram, and stay for the new quality of teaching you provide.