The idea of dome projection mainly originated from the planetariums, multi-projector cinema theater, and flight simulation. As the name suggests, 360-degree dome projection utilizes a dome which is a half-spherical structure for the purpose of projection of videos and images. The dome features real-life or pre-rendered animations, live capture images, or composited environments.

Dome projection transports the audience into an alternate reality where the colors, imagery, and graphics evoke excitement and leaves an ever-lasting impression on the mind.

The 360 Dome projection is distinct from other technologies like Virtual Reality (VR). In this arrangement, unlike VR, the video, animation, or images can be enjoyed by many people at a time. Big brands and small businesses utilize 360 Dome projection for advertising their services and products.

The technology of 360 projection dome:

360 domes mainly operate on two configurations:

• Single projector system
• Multiple projector system

Single Projector System:

This arrangement of dome projection utilizes a single or mixed video source projected through a single fisheye lens often kept in the middle of the hemispherical dome. Unlike the multi-projector system, this arrangement prevents edge blends due to the overlapping of multiple projectors.

However, one demerit of this system is their limitation in the capacity of the video representation to cover the entire hemispherical screen.

A Single-projector mirror system uses a spherical mirror kept at the boundary of the hemisphere. The projector deflects off the spherical mirror to create a cast a video animation on the hemispherical screen. It is kept near the boundary of the hemisphere to improve the seating arrangement and lessen the costs.

Multiple Projector System:

A Multi-projector dome uses two or more projectors that split the entire video imagery into fragments, allowing seamless and high-resolution video images on the screen of the dome.

The projectors are placed in a way that does not obstruct the viewing region under the hemisphere. The main demerit of this system is the difference in the age of different projectors which cause defects such as blurring, low brightness, and color variations.

Also, differences in the efficiency of different projectors can affect the coloration of strong imagery projected on the dome. The areas where projectors overlap or in other words “edge-blended regions” cause messy and dual images.

The construction of the 360-degree dome projection:

Robust support of 360 Dome:

The 360 Domes are supported by a galvanized steel frame that is most suitable to a 360-degree film environment. The projection dome in such cases does not require an inner lining or supplementary support system.

The outer walls:

360-degree Dome is sheathed by a waterproof or fire-resistant outer membrane. This outer cover also does not allow light to enter inside, giving a fully immersive and interactive experience. The dome could be established both indoors and outdoors environments, with the cover membrane tough enough to tolerate harsh climate.

The Projection Liner:

The Projection liner or inner coating is similar to the liner used in cinema domes. It is a reliable and high-quality feature which could be well-adjusted in the dimension of the dome using vacuum pumps.

A smooth and seamless projection:

The dome screen fits perfectly into the steel structure giving a beautiful, realistic, and seamless projection of evocative videos and images.

Applications of 360-degree projection domes:

The utilization of 360-degree projection domes is popularly found in social events such as open-air concerts, fashion shows, trade events, fairs, festivities, etc.

• Big corporations as well as small businesses leverage 360 Dome projection as a useful tool for advertising and marketing campaigns for their services and products.

• To enhance their brand image, companies utilize such high-tech solutions during business conferences, corporate retreats, bonding events, and other corporate events.

• Technical Universities in collaboration with Geographic Information Systems incorporates 360 Dome to modernize their education culture.

• Technology museums and art galleries also would leverage such futuristic technologies.

The immersive experience of 360-degree projection dome:

The 360-degree projection dome is used in mobile planetariums and 5D cinemas which essentializes high-resolution videos and high-quality sound systems. The futuristic technology of mobile planetariums spawn myriads of creative options and opportunities.

The world of this technology is limitless, and you can push the envelope of your imagination to any extent. The 360-degree projection dome enables us to visualize the display video images from both 360-degree (horizontally) or 180-degree (vertically).

In theater environs, the combination of the Dolby sound system and projection dome transports us to another enthralling dimension, making an overwhelming and long-lasting impact.