[SMPTE NewsWatch – a monthly SMPTE newsletter]
Among the key issues rising in the wake of the ongoing 3D feature film exhibition breakout is the quest for brighter theatrical projection systems. The cinematic brightness issue, for decades, has revolved around delicate and expensive xenon arc-style projector lamps. However, the 3D revolution has brought other options previously considered not yet mature into the equation, particularly various types of Solid State illumination technologies. LED applications are spreading across society generally, of course, but specifically for theatrical exhibition, laser projection technology has been making significant noise in the past two years.
Late last year, following on the heels of a 2010 licensing deal with Laser Light Engines, Inc. (LLE) to develop high-brightness laser light systems,IMAX signed a major deal with Kodak to license the laser projection technology that the company had been demonstrating to the industry over the course of the previous year. Now, industry pundits are predicting we will be seeing laser systems up-and-running in major theatrical venues around the world within the next year or so. Virtually every major digital projector manufacturer is investigating the technology to one degree or another these days, with well-received demos from major manufacturers like Barco and NEC happening in recent months. Indeed, the latest developments in the world of laser projection are slated to be part of the discussion at the 2012 Technology Summit on Cinema at the NAB Show in April, and other announcements from major players were pending at press time. …
Nearly every major projector manufacturer and other technology companies have formed an industry association called the Laser Illuminated Projector Association (LIPA) to get the ball rolling on addressing such regulatory issues and standards. Beck expects that once laser-specific issues are examined more in-depth by LIPA, SMPTE and others in the industry will be able to roll such standards into existing specifications over the course of time. …
Read the full story here: http://www.smpte.org/publications/smpte_monthly/feb_news_2012