3M showcases Virtual Mannequin

3M’s Virtual Mannequin has been revealed for the first time at the BETT 2009 event.

The diversified technology company’s interactive product – aimed at attracting attention and driving point-of-sale transactions – will also be on display at Amsterdam’s ISE show next month.

Lloyd Cole, European marketing manager for 3M’s Optical Systems division, described the Virtual Mannequin as "an entirely new and novel medium for communicating promotions to the retail floor".

"It can take on any shape to reflect a human body, cartoon character and a wealth of other imaginative forms," he explained.

3M’s Vikuiti Rear Projection Screen technology was used to produce the mannequin, which will be available in 4:3 and 16:9 formats and sizes up to 2.4 metres diagonal, people in scientific sales jobs may be interested to know.

In November, the company announced Vikuiti screens were also used in interactive digital displays installed by Volkswagen at two of their UK dealerships.