Panasonic Corporation recently announced that it has developed the “Space Player”, a new type of lighting equipment which combines the functions of traditional lighting and video projection for interior and exterior spaces.

The Space Player concept of “projection lighting,” utilizes projected visuals for lighting in public spaces such as museums and retail applications. For example, the projection spotlight can spot light an object while projecting video or product descriptions onto the surrounding space.

Some of the Space Player’s features include:

• One-touch toggle from “lighting mode” to “projector mode” via remote control
• Standalone playback of pictures and videos from an SD card or PC / tablet projection via a Wi-Fi network or wired HDMI connection
• Programmable scheduling for brightness, video selection and power on and off
• Spotlight-shaped design in two colors – black and white
• Utilizes wiring duct installation method for easy installation
• Remote control-operated electric powered 2.2 x zoom and focus

The projector itself utilizes a laser (blue diode) light source for 1,000 lumens of brightness. It has WXGA resolution and is a DLP projector. The Space Player is expected to have a list price somewhere between $3,000 – $4,000 and will ship in July 2014.

Recent findings from PMA Research has shown that sales in the traditional projector market have been relatively flat. The market needs new, innovative products to “shake things up” a bit, and the Space Player is a unique and interesting product to introduce to the public display and lighting markets.