crystal zoetrope

crystal zoetrope is a new visual medium developed by the design media lab at korea advanced institute of science and technology that can create 3-D animations from a 2-D image. the effect is created by using sub-surface laser engraving to engrave images into a crystal block. the circular block is then installed on a motor that spins it around. surrounding the block are 20 LED lights that flash in intervals to make the designs engraved in the crystal appear to be animated. to demonstrate this project, the team installed the crystal zoetrope in a table. users can interact with the device, controlling the speed and direction of the spinning by simple gestures on the surface of the table. the new technology could have applications in lighting installations, toys and even advertising.

http://designmedia.kaist.ac.kr