Q. Please explain the “How to,” and what it takes to make a hologram
A. Each holographic image starts with a three-dimensional digital model. If no such model already exists, it can be created in a variety of ways such as scanning geospatial terrain, digitizing a object, or creating a digital model from scratch using computer graphics or engineering software. For geospatial application, terrain data may already exist for a region of interest. For architecture and other applications Zebra has successfully accepted many three-dimensional digital file formats including those exported by Catia, Maya, Alias, 3D Studio Max and AutoCAD software. After Zebra receives a 3D digital model, the customer specifies the size, color, and flexible vs rigid, and opaque vs transparent mounting options for the hologram. After the job has been fully specified, Zebra can schedule the hologram production, and can consult and provide standard or custom lighting and installation solutions if required.
Q. How long does it take to make a hologram?
A. Imaging time for one 2' x 2' monochrome tile is approximately two (2) hours, and standard A1 size, about 2’ x 3’ is approximately three (3) hours.
Q. How much does a hologram cost?
A.The cost of a hologram is primarily dependent on three things: color, quantity and size. Please contact us for a price quote.
Q. How is a hologram mounted and displayed?
A. A hologram is usually laminated onto a flat, lightweight surface, like aluminum or plastic, which can in turn be mounted almost anywhere. Zebra holograms are "reflection" holograms, which means they must be illuminated from the front in order to communicate the three-dimensional effect. A single point light source, such as a LED flashlight or halogen lamp is best. Although they can be viewed in direct sunlight, a hologram is best displayed indoors or at night with a single light source shining directly on it. Zebra Imaging can provide the appropriate lighting.
Q. What scale(s) of geospatial data can be used?
(From left to right) large-scale approx. 1:3,000 , medium-scale approx. 1:1,000, and building-scale approx. 1:300
A.Geospatial data of even very large expanses of terrain can be made into a hologram, although a 2’ x 2’ map of the North American continent would have a scale of about 1:7,000,000 and therefore not much depth relief unless it is exaggerated in magnification. Zebra recommends selecting a scale appropriate to the intended use and natural depth of the terrain, and will be happy to help in determining the optimal scale. Generally-speaking terrain extents of about 2 km x 2 km or lower are recommended. Holograms can be tiled together to form images of any size, although tiled-imagery larger than 10 feet usually requires special lighting considerations.
Q. How are horizontal mode holograms best viewed?
A.The output angle of a horizontal-mode Zebra hologram is about 100°, and can be comfortably viewed within a cone of about 50° off the center axis. It is recommended to place a horizontal mode hologram on the floor and walk 360° around the image.
Q. Are Zebra holograms waterproof?
A. Yes, and they can even be viewed under water as long as there is proper underwater illumination.
Q. Can Zebra holograms be destroyed?
A. Although Zebra holograms are very durable and scratch resistant; they can be rendered unviewable by abrasion or shredding.
