Platform technology for next-generation video projection services for dome theaters

Digital distribution of video content for planetariums via the network and cloud

High-presence video projection coupled with ICT technology, brings DX to the planetarium industry.

Since launching the first Japanese-made planetarium in 1958, Konica Minolta has been leading the planetarium industry as one of the world’s most successful planetarium manufacturers. For example, the company launched the world’s first digital full-dome planetarium system that can optically project images combined with computer graphic images in 1997, which has become the mainstream today. Konica Minolta is the only company in the planetarium industry that has directly-managed planetariums, enabling it to deliver a variety of shows and expertise in planetarium management. 

 

Via the network and cloud, the platform technology for next-generation video projection services for dome theaters can present a broader range of full-dome video contents, and that connects domed theaters with audiences.

This platform enhances the efficiency of theater operation, while providing various live-streaming shows and new interactive entertaining experiences to audiences by connecting multiple facilities, which is difficult for stand alone dome theaters to do. With this system, Konica Minolta will enhance the value of dome theaters and attract more visitors. 

Technology Overview

The platform for next-generation video projection services for dome theaters consists of: a cloud platform for managing, encrypting, and distributing video contents; and an edge server that sends and receives data between the cloud platform through a network and delivers the contents to the digital projector in the dome theater. 

Unlike the conventional projection system that requires the planetarium to be closed for a few days in order to set up a new shows, the new Connected Dome Library allows licensed shows to be automatically downloaded from the cloud platform, stored in the edge server, and projected directly on the screen, thus eliminating the set-up work, and allowing more planetarium shows to be presented effectively and flexibly.

It also enables various events to be live-streamed securely over a general Internet connection that is easy to set up. With its ability to deliver diverse contents and connect with multiple facilities in real-time, this system can bring new entertaining experiences to audiences.