Prepress
DNP Develops Simulation Software to Create Hologram Renderings from 3DCG Data
Friday 01. August 2008 - Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. (DNP) has developed a simulation software allowing users to verify rendered images closely approximating real holograms produced from three dimensional computer graphics (3D CG,) including calculated interference fringe, along with stereoscopic effects and coloring.
Using this simulation software it is possible to verify rendered images on a screen prior to production in 1/10 of the time previously required.
[Background]
“Virtuagram” is a high definition hologram with a sophisticated anti-counterfeit effect created by calculating the interference fringe data of holograms produced from 3D CG data, and drawing the fine interference patterns using an electron beam (EB) lithography system. So far, it has been necessary to create a prototype closely resembling the final product in order to verify a rendered image of the hologram, including the stereoscopic effects and coloring, but this entails production costs and a production period of approximately one month in order to produce the original plate. Further cost burdens and time have been needed when making corrections or design changes.
DNP in conjunction with Professor Hiroshi Yoshikawa of Nihon University has developed simulation software to facilitate the verification of rendered images in just a short period of time, by transferring data created from 3D CG into hologram images.
[Features]
* Possible to produce rendered hologram images in just a short time
Using this newly developed software it is possible to reduce the amount of time needed to verify rendered images, from the approximate one month needed in the past to just one or two days. Also, making it possible to verify the images on a PC screen helps facilitate corrections and the addition of various extra conditions in a timely manner prior to producing the holograms.
* High quality hologram images
The images used to verify holograms are high definition renderings which cannot be differentiated from the originals. For example, with a real hologram it is possible to view images which appear to be projected on the side of three dimensional objects when the viewpoint is shifted in a lateral fashion. It is also possible to achieve this effect with the newly developed simulation software. With rainbow holograms illuminated with white light, such as that from fluorescent lighting, the colors switch to the spectral hues of the rainbow when shifting the observational direction in a vertical fashion. It is also possible to achieve such chromatic changes with this new software.
[Forward Looking Events]
DNP will use this newly developed system which facilitates the provision of high quality holograms with just a short lead time, and actively market holograms as an anti-counterfeiting measure for money certificates, including gift vouchers and merchandise coupons, as well as credit cards, employee IDs and ID cards, along with brand protection uses, including automobile parts, OA supplies, cosmetics, apparel, pharmaceuticals and sports goods. We are aiming for sales of yen 3 billion over the next three years. This technology will be announced at the “3D Image Conference 2008” to be held at the University of Tokyo on July 10 and 11. For further information, please visit the website at http://www.3d-conf.org/
* DNP has marketed cutting edge holograms under the “Virtuagram” brand name since 2003. “Virtuagram” is a hologram comprising a superior anti-counterfeiting effect, capable of recording 3D objects with complicated shapes which make it difficult to create real objects, and high definition images such as photos.
* Product price, specification and service content listed in this news release are as of time of going to press. This data may change without notice. We apologize for any inconvenience.