MirrorForge: Rapid Prototyping of Complex Mirrors for Camera and Projector Systems

Abstract

From small tangibles to large tabletops, mirrors with complex geometries can be invaluable tools to reflect or form light for cameras and projectors. While many fabrication techniques are available for prototyping physical or electronic components, creating mirrors requires manual computation and industrial manufacturing equipment and is therefore considerably slower and more expensive. We propose a technique for fabricating mirror surfaces based on thermoplastics sheets with a laminated metallization layer and 3D-printed fixtures for bending or vacuum forming. Given our toolchain, a simulation of mirrors for cameras and projectors by rendering the CAD model is possible and allows to fabricate and evaluate design iterations quickly, making the process reasonably accessible for research. Finally, we show two prototypes for tangible interfaces based on our mirrors for projection and camera-based interaction, discussing advantages and limitations.