EDGE BLEDING ON A BUDGET

Central Interconnect, a systems integrator based in Grand Rapids, MI. since 1981, was approached by Design Plus, a local architectural firm that has been responsible for much of the development in the area since 1979, for a  life-sized 3D imaging system that would allow them to demonstrate major projects to contractors, developers, prospective investors, donors and government officials. The concept behind the project was to create a video wall that gave clients the sensation of walking through full-scale 3D models of buildings and entire city planning projects. While Design Plus' facility had plenty of space, the budget was limited. Arlen Smith of Central Interconnect knew it would not be possible to create the system they wanted with a single screen, nor would it be possible to spec a 'typical' edge-blending system as the edge-blending processor normally used is this type of installation would be cost prohibitive.

The unexpected solution came from SANYO's sub $2k PLC-XU48 3LCD projector. This extremely bright projector with its exceptionally high contrast ratio and focus uniformity made it possible to line up the edge of three 6-foot x 9-foot screens pixel by pixel for a remarkable 27-foot long video wall. Using a PC with three VGA video cards and standard multi-video card software, Design Plus is able to project an entire presentation that might include CAD drawings, specifications, budgets and anything else associated with a specific project all at the same time. They can move information from screen to screen as is necessary to provide a comprehensive and panoramic presentation.