Canon MREAL System simultaneously merges virtual objects with the real world at full scale and in three dimensions

Canon today announced its Canon MREAL System for Mixed Reality (MR), a new imaging solution that simultaneously merges virtual objects with the real world, at full scale and in three dimensions. By combining the rich, visual information of the real world and the flexibility offered by computer-generated images, MR offers an imaging experience that is a step ahead of existing virtual reality technology, which currently only produces computer-generated environments. The MREAL System and its associated professional services inclusive of MR implementation, integration to customer systems, and custom development can benefit companies in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, automotive, construction, aerospace, medical, defense, and entertainment, to name a few. The Canon MREAL System for Mixed Reality — which consists of a head-mounted display (HMD) HM-A1 and the MR Platform Software MP-100 — creates the illusion that computer-generated visuals exist within the real world.


Two video cameras inside the head-mounted display (HMD), located in front of each eye, capture video from the real world, which is then processed and sent to a computer. Using state-of-the-art Canon image processing and directional-sensor data, the computer-generated graphics and the real world are combined with high precision and are displayed on the small monitors located inside the head-mounted display (HMD). An advanced optical system enlarges the video displayed on the small monitors to create high-impact, three-dimensional images. The innovative and patented free-form prism features a unique three-sided configuration that produces clear, solid-looking images with low distortion, reducing the impact of optical aberrations, even in peripheral areas, and further enhances the realism of the experience.

The MR Platform is designed to enhance a company’s existing design workflow. The software integrates with leading design applications including Siemens PLM Software’s NX software, a leading integrated solution for computer-aided design, manufacturing and engineering (CAD/CAM/CAE), and the 3D visualization software RTT DeltaGen, which renders mixed reality images through the Canon head-mounted display, in lifelike realism. The Canon MREAL System has the capacity to expand virtually any existing design application in all sectors, including university research, entertainment and museum exhibits.

The Canon MREAL System for Mixed Reality, along with the services required to integrate into existing customer environments and applications, will be available immediately. Pricing will vary depending on system configurations and in accordance with usage requirements. More information on the Canon MREAL System for Mixe can be found at www.usa.canon.com/mixedreality.