FogScreen an instant success
The walk-through projection screen attracts attention in trade shows and theme parks
The projection screen made of fog developed by FogScreen Inc is an invention that originated at the Department of Signal Processing and the Department of Electronics at TUT. The idea of a walk-through projection screen occurred to researchers at the departments like a bolt from the blue. Although the world’s first water screen was patented over a hundred years ago, no one had contrived how to create an optimal fog screen projecting images that float in mid-air.
"My colleague Karri Palovuori and I were discussing water screens and other existing projection screens. Then it occurred to us how we could create an optimal floating image", reminisces Ismo Rakkolainen, Technology Manager of FogScreen Inc. The operating principle of the fog screen is to split water into microscopic droplets of virtually dry fog and blow them with a patented method between two air walls.
From innovation into reality
"When we first came up with the idea we had neither time nor the resources to realise a concrete product. Nevertheless, the concept was so fascinating we had to patent it and start building crude prototypes", says Rakkolainen. "With the first prototypes we were able to prove that the idea works and acquired some resources for the experiment from TUT and other sponsors".
TUT’s impact in the early stages of patenting and realising the fog screen was significant. "We built prototypes during the testing phase. By 2003, the idea had gathered so much momentum that it was time to establish a company", tells CEO of FogScreen, Mika Koivula. After that, Juha Landkammer carried the major responsibility for product development and commercialisation. Cooperation with TUT has been continued later on.
Growth requires interdisciplinary competence
"Now that the company is expanding, product development has become more of a team effort", describes Koivula. "We’ve invited some of the world’s top experts in various fields to take part in the development work and all the invitees have jumped at the offer. Our team includes experts in flow technology, electronics, software engineering and design".
FogScreen Inc has doubled its turnover annually and hopes to maintain the pace in future. The business is almost entirely directed abroad, and the opportunities for growth are promising. "In future, a fog screen will become a must-have product in the entertainment business and you’ll find it in night clubs, shopping centres and museums".
200 million viewers witnessed the fog screen in the Eurovision Song Contest in spring 2007.