Light Blue Optics
Pocket-sized projection
Light Blue Optics (LBO), a Cambridge-based company, is developing miniature projection systems.
The company's holographic laser projection technology delivers full colour, high-quality video images that remain in focus at all distances. The technology's efficiency and small size make it suitable for applications across a range of markets.
"There is a strong market demand to view an increasing wealth of rich, multimedia content on small, hand-held devices," says Dr Edward Buckley, LBO's Director of Business Development. "However, current display screens are constrained by the size of the hand-held device.
"LBO's holographic laser projection technology frees multimedia content from the constraints of the screen. Our miniature projection systems will make it easier for people on the move to share multimedia content from their hand-held devices.
"In addition to applications in the consumer electronics market, our systems will also provide a low-cost, low-power solution for indoor digital signage, creating versatile, energy-efficient displays for use in stores, offices and the built environment.
"In the automotive industry, the incorporation of LBO's holographic laser projection technology into vehicle instrument clusters and head-up displays could also provide significant benefits by enhancing driver safety and reducing CO2 emissions."
Miniature projectors packed with features
LBO's novel approach to projection delivers a unique combination of features including an ultra-wide throw angle, infinite focus, low-power consumption, no moving parts and a robust design that naturally lends itself to miniaturisation and low-cost manufacture. Images can be projected onto curved or angled surfaces without distortion.
"LBO's technology is such a step-change that it will not only address existing markets, but it is likely to create whole new ones," says NESTA Investments' Associate, Libby Kinsey.
A funding boost to accelerate product development
In October 2007, LBO closed a US$26 million Series 'A' funding round, led by Earlybird Venture Capital and Capital-E. Existing investors – 3i plc, who led LBO's US$3.5 million seed-funding round in 2006, and NESTA – also participated.
The money will enable LBO to accelerate its product development and commercialisation programme towards the high-volume manufacture of miniature projection systems.
LBO estimates that the total available market for miniature projection systems will exceed $5 billion by 2012.
Written: October 2007
Photo: Light Blue Optics Ltd
Summary
Light Blue Optics is developing a pocket-sized projection unit that can be attached or inserted into mp3 players, mobile phones and laptops.
Sector: ICT
Team: Investments
Location: Cambridge
Investment: £657,974
Other Investors: Business Angels, 3i, Earlybird Venture Capital, Capital-E
Website: http://www.lightblueoptics.com/