Gizmos & Gadgets: Leap Motion’s North Star Advances the Human-Computer Interface

April 10, 2018 – Back in 2013 when I published the MIT Technology Review List of the 50 most disruptive companies, Leap Motion, a human-computer interface interface developer was getting started and stated that its mission was to revolutionize the augmented and virtual reality experience, making machine interaction with humans as seamless as possible, a place where the virtual was more than just an opportunity to indulge in sophisticated video games.

Now in 2018, it appears that the company is getting close to doing just that with its latest Project North Star, described as the mother ship for augmented and virtual reality.

North Star is a total system, not just a headset that on first glance appears more ergonomically attractive than most of the bulky face mask-like devices seen on the market today.

And Leap Motion describes its invention as a headset that can be priced for as little as $100 U.S. That in itself overcomes a price barrier that has to some degree inhibited the sales of virtual and augmented reality devices.

The North Star platform features two 1600 x 1440 displays capable of streaming up to 120 frames per second in a visual field extending over 100 degrees.

When combined with another Leap Motion invention, its hand-tracking sensor, and the open software systems platform, North Star is the first augmented and virtual reality device that gives third-party developers the opportunity to build upon it.

Leap Motion describes North Star as a “project,” “an experimental platform.” But there is no doubt in my mind that it will soon be on the market providing new experiences for gamers and developers of augmented reality applications.

North Star’s headset uses ellipsoidal reflectors, curved mirrors, to make its images big, clear and in focus. It has embedded cameras, ambient light sensors, directional speakers, and micro-actuators. Initial prototypes were 3D printed. The optics are made using high-grade acrylic and are carved and polished using tools designed for the diamond trade. Each reflector has been coated with thin layers of silver to reflect 50% of the light while allowing the balance to pass through. The field of view created is much larger than other headsets. And the bottom of the headset is open so the wearer can look down and easily see his or her hands while augmented information overlays get projected on to them.

The end result, North Star, will be lighter, smaller, and more versatile than any existing virtual and augmented reality headset on the market today. Look out Facebook, Sony, Apple, and Samsung, Leap Motion may be “leaping” over you in the augmented and virtual reality space. If you want to learn more I suggest you visit Leap Motion’s website to keep informed about the company’s go-to-market timetable.