Screen Innovations is now shipping its automated variable aspect ratio screen, called Transformer. First shown at CEDIA Expo 2015, the Transformer screen can automatically change its shape, moving seamlessly and quietly from 16:9 to 1.85:1 to 2.35:1 to 2.40:1 (with other customizable options). The screen is available in sizes up to 235 inches wide, with the Pure or Slate screen material. It also comes with SI's LED ambiance lighting system. Pricing starts at $18,000.

From Screen Innovations
Screen Innovations (SI) announced they are now shipping their unique variable aspect ratio screen, Transformer. First introduced as a concept screen at CEDIA in 2015, Transformer captivated the industry with its simplistic method of perfectly displaying multiple aspect ratios without utilizing any masking material.

"Masking has been an integral part of projection screens for decades, because they are a simple solution to a problem; not all content has the same aspect ratio," said Skyler Meek, Director of Marketing at SI. "However," Meek continued, "they are unnecessary. Instead of covering the screen with obtrusive draping systems or masking panels, we have created a screen that transforms, seamlessly changing its shape, depending on the type of content the viewer is watching."

Transformer aligns well with SI's philosophy for simplifying the customer's viewing experience. When Zero Edge was introduced to the industry in 2011, it offered a completely new presentation for projection screens. Compared to the traditional velvet-wrapped frame, Zero Edge eliminated the large extrusion in favor of a smaller ultra-thin bezel, similar to that of today's flat-panel TVs. In keeping with the minimalist design, in 2015, SI unveiled Zero-G, an all-new approach for how a motorized screen could be presented in a room. Zero-G screens appear to 'levitate,' with no visible blackdrop material in between the viewing surface and the cassette. Rather, the screen is suspended by color-matched Dyneema cables. These innovations have culminated into Transformer, allowing SI to modernize traditional masking screens after nearly three years of development.

In addition to designing incredible displays for their customers, SI also strives to reduce installation time and complexity for the CI channel. SI's engineering team assures integrators a streamlined installation process, with a greatly simplified method of packing and pre-construction. "The number one complaint I hear from our dealers is the masking installation process is too complicated and time consuming, sometimes averaging a full day or more. We feel Transformer will make all masking screens obsolete, bringing beauty and simplicity to our dealers," said SI CEO Ryan Gustafson.

SI's continued pursuit of excellence in innovation has led them to create the world's first variable aspect ratio screen, featuring their LED ambiance lighting, which moves with the frame as it expands. Transformer is available in custom sizes up to 235 inches(7,315 mm) wide, equating to a 254.5-inch(6,464mm) diagonal in the 'ultra-wide' 2.40:1 aspect ratio. Customers can also choose SI's award-winning materials such as Slate(ALR) and Pure, both of which are available in acoustically transparent varieties, allowing speakers to be concealed behind the screen. From the factory, Transformer ships with pre-programmed default positions of 16:9, 1.85:1, 2.35:1, and 2.40:1 with user adjustable customizations for any of these positions. SI worked diligently to make certain the unit remains extremely quiet, with a focus on friction-free motion wherever possible and utilizing industry-leading Somfy Sonesse RS485 Quiet Motors.

Availability: Transformer is available for order now and is shipping globally starting at $18,000 MSRP.

Screen Innovations makes it easy for integrators to choose the right screen for each project based on lighting, room size, seating distance, and more. Visit www.screeninnovations.com to check out the Screen Calculator, Screen Wizard, and Projector Wizard online tools.

Additional Resources
• For more information and a video of Transformer in action, go to
www.screeninnovations.com/transformer.
• Screen Innovations Adds Acoustically Transparent Option to Its Slate and Pure Lines at HomeTheaterReview.com.