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Invisible Cloaks, Translucent Walls
jd writes "The University of Tokyo has developed the illusion of invisibility, under the name of 'Optical Camouflage.' The system is remarkably simple - you have a mix of light-sensitive and light-emitting devices attached to an adapted reflective surface. The devices are hooked to a computer, which simply projects on each side whatever is on the opposite side. The result is more of a translucent look, than real invisibility, but the potential is there. The inventer's next objective is to make walls that are invisible, using the same technology. Project a real outside image onto an interior wall without windows. This almost sounds more frightening than the cloak, since there's no reason why the sensors would have to be placed outside. Imagine a world where PHBs can turn their office wall into a window onto any cube. Zero privacy. The technology is great, but the potential for abuse is definitely there." Update: 06/15 00:20 GMT by T : You may remember we mentioned this project when it was cloak-only.
I believe that most people discarding military use of this technology forgot not all armies (or group of opponents) have a bunch of technological gizmo to detect all kind of emission one can produce.
In cities, when you are not in the dark, this kind of technology has great potential. Your opponent will not be able to rely on night vision... Also, even if you are still visible with IR, your opponent still have a worse view than if you have no camouflage. As another poster said, your advantage may only for a few seconds, but it's enough for you to have better odds.
I can also see this technology for police interventions (hostage situation and the like). In most cases, the bad guy will not have any kind of technology to detect you.
"Thank you, I'm here all week."
I'm thinking that should read "weak" not "week".
If all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail.