Volumetric three-dimensional display systems: their past, present and future

Volumetric three-dimensional displays are those in which images are generated within a display volume, rather than upon a stationary surface. Since the images are physically three-dimensional, most visual depth cues are automatically satisfied, without the need for observers to wear special glasses or headgear. Moreover, an all-round view of the images is usually possible. Many ideas for volumetric displays have been proposed over the past 60 years or so, and some of these are discussed in this article. Potential applications for such displays are widespread and include fields from scientific and medical research is to engineering design and education