Thin Displays Set New Trends In Home And Commercial Décor

March 15, 2012
Thin Displays Set New Trends In Home And Commercial Décor

Two things I always like to see in technology is something that cures a major problem or illness and/or some new device or concept that truly enhances the quality of life. Within the confines of ED, I never get to see any cures per se, but every now and again a true life enhancer comes along. Such is the case with Planar Systems’ latest display offering.

Planar Mosaic embarks as the only video wall system using three flat panel tiles including a true square LCD. Notably, the system packs unique features supporting cutting-edge developments in the global architectural wall coverings market. As per the Global Industry Analysts, the wall covering market is going in bold and radical directions and is expected to hit $26 billion in 2015.

Planar Mosaic is essentially a video wall supporting an emerging trend in the architecture and design industry: using video displays to adorn the walls in place or in concert with traditional artwork (paintings, tapestries, etc.). Planar has a large-scale prototype exhibit at the Cristin Tierney Gallery in New York City displaying the work of video artist Yorgo Alexopoulos. The artist’s concepts span several displays across the exhibit-space walls.

The video wall system is apparently the only one of its kind that allows the integration of three different LCD tile sizes and shapes including the true square LCD tile measuring 21.6” diagonal. Dubbed the Salvador, the square LCD tile sports a 1:1 aspect ratio and measures 15.6” (39.5 cm) on each side. Rectangular tiles include the Vincent measuring 48” (122 cm) wide and the Pablo logging in at 40” (103 cm) in width. Operation and layout of the system hinges on proprietary Mosaic Ensemble software and hardware, which allows the tiles to be rotated at virtually any angle and mounted in any position.

The system features LED backlighting, thereby consuming less energy than traditional LCD displays. With an installation depth of less than 4” (10.16 cm), the system is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Having viewed the system at the Cristin Tierney Gallery, I completely agree with vice president of marketing at Planar Systems Jennifer Davis’ statement, “The Planar Mosaic elevates video from the realm of information to one of inspiration, and will allow installations and designs never before possible.”

The Mosaic Ensemble includes a one-of-a-kind mounting system with auto-alignment posts that allow error-free installation with unrestricted angles and positioning in concave and convex patterns or with overlapping displays while retaining the ability to perform any servicing of the displays from the front. Off-board power supplies enable a very-quiet wall where no power outlets are required behind the tiles. Power, video, and system control can be daisy-chained.

At the heart of the system, Mosaic Project Designer software promises to eliminate significant cost and complexity by allowing users to design a layout of video tiles and configure the system during the installation process. This combination of software and image processing easily allows the display of a single image or video over the entire layout. One can literally build a single theme from several displays similar to how a stained-glass artist creates a picture from several pieces of colored glass.

If you happen to be in New York, you can take a look at the Mosaic system through March 30 at the Cristin Tierney Gallery located at 546 West 29th Street, New York, NY 10001, (212) 594-0550. If you can’t make down there, Planar has a video available and an in-depth case study. For more info, visit Planar's website.

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