The MirageTable uses a 3D-video projector to beam images onto a sheet of curved white plastic placed in front of the user.

BBC: MirageTable demonstration

With this, the scanning beam is not directed at any single spot, but moves around, so the plastic does not burn.

ECONOMIST: Recycling

The laser beam in the scanner shoots a steady stream of photons, all of the same frequency, at the plastic.

ECONOMIST: Recycling