SYSTEMS

¥	Matter conversion subsystem creates physical props using 
replicators. Replicated props are generally created when an object is likely 
to be touched by the participant. Some props are animated under computer 
control by precision-guided tractor beams.

¥	Holographic imagery subsystem creates three-dimensional images of 
simulated environments. Shaped forcebeams give physical substance to 
foreground objects so they have the illusion of being solid.

¥	Substrate forcefield creates ÒtreadmillÓ effect, permitting participant 
to remain stationary while the simulated environment ÒscrollsÓ by, within the 
limits of the simulation program.

SUMMARY

	The Holodeck utilizes two main subsystems, the holographic imagery 
subsystem and the matter conversion subsystem. The holographic imagery 
subsection creates the realistic background environments. The matter 
conversion subsystem creates physical ÒpropsÓ from the starshipÕs central 
raw matter supplies. Under normal conditions, a participant in a Holodeck 
simulation should not be able to detect differences between a real object 
and a simulated one.
	The Holodeck also generates remarkably lifelike recreations of 
humanoids or other lifeforms. Such animated characters are composed of 
solid matter arranged by transporter-based replicators and manipulated by 
highly articulated computer-driven tractor beams. The results are 
exceptionally realistic Òpuppets,Ó which exhibit behaviors almost exactly like 
those of living beings, depending on software limits. Transporter-based 
matter replication is, of course, incapable of duplicating an actual living 
being.
	Objects created on the Holodeck that are pure holographic images 
cannot be removed from the Holodeck, even if they appear to possess 
physical reality because of the focused forcebeam imagery. Objects created 
by replicator matter conversion do have physical reality and can indeed be 
removed from the Holodeck, even though they will no longer be under 
computer control.  Æ