A Volumetric Display using an Acoustically Trapped Particle

This video describes a volumetric display I designed and built that uses a phased arrray of ultrasonic transducers to levitate a 1mm foam ball and move it at speeds greater than 1m/s. The POV effect makes it seem as if you’re drawing in mid-air! This was such a fun project - I still giggle (maniacally) when watching this thing go. There’s something truly magical about watching something levitate in mid-air and then start zipping around so fast, you can’t see it. You can find all the design files here: References: PhysicsGirl acoustic levitator: Acoustic levitator Instructable: University of Sussex video: University of Sussex paper: