This cocoon is as beautiful as a butterfly. Everyone knows that famous scene in Minority Report where Tom Cruise is navigating through his computer with his fingers. A lot of demos have been compared to this futuristic vision, such as Microsoft’s Surface interface.
Nonetheless, not many have come that close to revolutionizing the way a user interacts with the computer since the Surface, iPhone, and iPad. Where’s the next direction to take this? A lot of experiments have been done with the Wii on using the remote, which are pretty interesting. There are also tons of other concepts, including walls and projectors and other wondrous works of the imagination. Here’s one for the books, though: a cocoon that one can walk into and interact with.
The cocoon mainly consists of a display dome, which creates a full environment that surrounds the user. This display dome is remarkable, and has all sorts of applications.
Relaxing is just one of the many functions that the Cocoon can make more realistic. I think this is a key function, especially for me personally — who wouldn’t love basking in the sun with the family or some friends? Or share a sunrise with someone special? Actually, that might be better done in real life.
Going on field trips would also be made feasible with the cocoon — from the convenience of your own region. Imagine this: children can learn about history and watch the battles take place. They can visit the Taj Mahal without incurring those expensive flight expenses or travelling costs that not everyone can afford. They can discover the world that was previously a mystery to all other generations.
Businesses can now meet virtually with enhanced video technology, or architects can demo their buildings to clients in a more detailed manner.
Adding in a fourth dimension of smell would make the cocoon much more realistic. For example, smelling a garden or even freshly mowed grass in the winter can be feasible. I recently learned of Soundscape, and it’d be pretty awesome for scenery to incorporate into this.
The Cocoon concept uses motion tracking technology by John Underkoffler and adjusts accordingly on the display dome.
Thinking that the 3D-TV was revolutionary? It’s taking a lot longer to catch on, and if this concept catches on I can definitely see it being accepted quickly and enthusiastically. Even if costs are high, I can definitely see museums, schools, and even training programs of businesses giving this Cocoon a chance. And when the costs of the Cocoon decrease, I can certainly see families and households investing in the Cocoons.
If you liked this post, check out ZeroTouch and the Urushi Musical Interface.
